Vecima Networks Inc. (TSX: VCM) has introduced its latest Entra Remote PHY Cable Access module, which includes enhanced support for third-party node platforms.
Part of Vecima’s Entra distributed architecture access (DAA) platform for cable access, the ERM322 module extends the useful life of widely deployed, non-Vecima hybrid-fiber coax (HFC) access nodes. The ERM322 Remote PHY Device (RPD) is deployable in the company's EN8100 access node and EN9000 Generic Access Platform (GAP) node systems.
Additionally, the ERM322 is deployable in legacy nodes from Cisco and CommScope, including support for full spectrum DOCSIS 3.1, two-downstream services, and two-upstream service groups.
Based on the latest generation of silicon from one of the world’s leading providers of SoCs [System on a Chip] for Remote PHY modules, Vecima notes that the ERM322 will offer significant advantages in density, capacity, and power usage.
As further stated by a company press release:
"With tens of thousands of units deployed around the world, the Cisco GS7000, CommScope OM4100, and CommScope NC4000 offer a base housing and RF amplifier that can be upgraded to DAA by installing next-generation access modules. Remote PHY and Remote MACPHY Devices (RMDs) are available from Vecima to accommodate both flavors of DAA available to cable access service providers."
Vecima contends that the new module's upgrade path for third-party vendor nodes demonstrates strong capex protection, while also offering compelling opex savings.
The manufacturer notes that with RPD and RMD modules, additional operational controls and monitoring are available when compared with analog transmission modules. This enhanced control and visibility reduces the number of truck rolls operators will require to manage the cable access network, maintains Vecima.
The Vecima Distributed Access Architecture (DAA) product portfolio was recently recognized by the Dell’Oro Group as the North American market share leader in Remote MACPHY and 10G-EPON Remote OLT technology, and is deployed by operators around the world. Visit Vecima Networks at SCTE Cable-Tec Expo 2022 from September 20-22, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia in the company's booth #7085.
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“We realize not all operators are in a position to replace legacy nodes in their migration to a distributed access architecture, higher capacity, and improved operations. With the ERM322, we specifically designed a hardware form factor that would work in a variety of legacy platforms. Vecima has been an interoperability leader across RPDs and CCAP cores, as well as in the emerging Flexible MAC Architecture (FMA). Extending our industry-leading interoperability to hardware modules was the clear next step for us.” -- Ryan Nicometo, senior vice president and general manager of Vecima’s Video & Broadband Solutions business