Pedestal Networks, a start-up based in Fremont, California, introduced a line-powered, remote Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexer (DSLAM) designed to extend a carrier's ADSL reach to 100% of subscribers. In addition to operating over long loops of up to 45,000 feet with loaded pairs, the platform can be deployed beyond existing Digital Loop Carriers (DLCs).
Pedestal Networks' Universal Broadband Server (UBS) features a proprietary line-power technology, automated provisioning, and an environmentally hardened "brick" design. The platform incorporates 24 ADSL modems, built-in line splitters and protection, and an internal digital cross-connect in a 12" x 14" x 2.5", hermetically-sealed enclosure. The small packaging enables the remote DSLAM to be deployed anywhere in a carrier's outside plant, including underground, underwater, in a buried hand-hole, mounted on poles, inside pedestals or crossboxes, or in any similar unconditioned enclosure in the field. Power is provided through standard HDSL2 or HDSL4 connections. Pedestal's adaptive power technology automatically configures the UBS to use appropriate power for the distance and quality of the links. Carriers can also install the UBS behind "loaded pairs," copper pairs that use load coils to enhance voice signals over long loop distances. Only the backhaul T1 need be "unloaded" to support the UBS.
Significantly, Pedestal's remote DSLAM can be pre-provisioned to support Instant-On Service Activation, whereby an any-to-any Physical Layer Router (PLR) in the platform leverages an integrated digital cross-connect technology to map the 24 onboard ADSL modems to any of the 50 pre-provisioned copper pairs. When the carrier receives an order for ADSL service, the Network Operations Center (NOC) can DSL-enable any of the 50 available POTS pairs at any time, with a single command.
Standard T1 connections, using T1-UNI or T1-IMA, are used to backhaul UBS broadband traffic. A fiber upgrade option for the platform will also be offered. The ADSL modems, which are based on Globespan's silicon, are firmware-upgradeable to support ADSL2 standards.
Pedestal Networks confirmed that commercial rollouts of its platform are already underway with a number of carriers.
http://www.pedestalnetworks.com
- Last month, Pedestal Networks named Greg Daily as its new CEO, replacing Dan Kohn, general partner of Skymoon Ventures, who served as the interim CEO during Pedestal's two-year product development phase. Daily previously served as general manager of ADC's $200 million Loop Transport Products division. Pedestal's investors include Benchmark Capital, DCM, and Skymoon Ventures.
