Calix Unveils Node-based E3-8G OLT, Accelerates Fiber Migration for Operators

In its bid to exponentially accelerate fiber migration for telecom operators, Calix, Inc., a global provider of gigabit fiber deployments, has unveiled – the E3-8G – an environmentally hardened, node-based optical line terminal (OLT).

This innovative node is optimized to allow cable operators to cost-effectively deliver symmetrical gigabit services today, while preparing for 10 gigabit per second (10 Gbps) and multi-wavelength based PON service offerings in the future.

Leveraging 60/90VAC cable plant power and a strand or pole mountable node-based design, the E3-8G is designed to seamlessly deliver advanced broadband services to over 500 subscribers using proven gigabit passive optical network (GPON) technology.

Complemented by Calix Compass Open Link Cable DOCSIS provisioning software, the E3-8G can dramatically increase gigabit service velocity, allowing cable operators to deliver market leading gigabit service offerings over FTTx architectures.

By utilizing a node-based architecture, cable operators can both leverage a familiar form factor and deployment model, as well as significantly improve the economics of fiber deployment when compared with traditional fiber network deployments.

The E3-8G, temperature and environmentally hardened, supports a “rapid” deployment model as it eliminates the time, effort, and cost to acquire facilities for the placement of PON equipment in the outside plant. In addition, the node-based form factor of the E3-8G mimics traditional cable network equipment and provides operators with an architecture to which they are accustomed for both residential and commercial deployments.

Complementary to the launch of the E3-8G, Calix is also introducing the newest member of the Calix family of GigaCenters – the 856G GigaCenter – a premises service delivery station that supports MoCA 2.0, a variety of services and resident/cloud-based applications, and Carrier Class Wi-Fi. Armed with Carrier Class Wi-Fi, the 856G can ease an operator’s transition from RF video to IPTV services.

“The race to cost-effectively deliver the optimal gigabit service experience is on and cable operators are looking for solutions that both deliver the best performance and leverage their existing investment,” said Shane Eleniak, Calix vice president of product line leadership. “The combination of the E3-8G with its node-based architecture, the 856G GigaCenter with its Carrier Class Wi-Fi, and Open Link Cable lets cable operators quickly move to a gigabit experience that include the in-home services that today’s cloud-enabled subscribers are craving. These solutions also allow cable operators to easily introduce10 gigabit services in the future, giving them the ability to remain at the forefront of meeting subscriber needs.”