Wave7 Develops Idle-Code Mitigation for RF Video over Fiber

Wave7 Optics, which has pioneered RF video over FTTP, introduced an "idle-code mitigation" technique enabling delivery of enhanced RF video services via EPON and GPON FTTP systems.



One of the key characteristics of data transmission, the use of idle codes, can cause significant interference to RF video signals through a phenomenon known as Stimulated Raman Scattering (SRS). Specifically, the downstream data wavelength (1490 nm) is close enough to the required video wavelength (1550 nm) to cause SRS interference. Idle periods significantly exacerbate this problem because the repetitive idle pattern has strong frequency components that overlap key television channels. That interference can result in a significant degradation of the video quality, rendering the RF video service unacceptable to subscribers.



Wave7 said its patent-pending technique significantly reduces this SRS degradation of the video signal, restoring video quality. Importantly, the technique does not violate IEEE 802.3ah or ITU-T G.984 standards, is compatible with existing standards-compliant equipment, is software-based, and enabled via an optional software key.



"This idle-code mitigation technique is an extremely valuable technique because RF video overlay remains a significant component of FTTP deployment," said Jim Farmer, CTO of Wave7 Optics. "When it comes to video and PONs, carriers deploying Trident7 based EPON or GPON can choose between RF and IPTV or both without experiencing any degradation of the video quality. We believe, in fact, that IP and RF will continue to co-exist in FTTP networks for the foreseeable future. With the Trident7, network operators can simultaneously deploy traditional RF broadcast services to deliver basic and premium channels, and IP-based technology for video-on-demand and premium services."http://www.wave7optics.com