Cisco Targets Converged Cable Access with new CMTS Line Cards and Processing Blade

Cisco is building its Converged Cable Access Platform (CCAP) architecture with a new high-density line card and a new high-performance processing engine for its flagship Cisco uBR10012 Universal Broadband Router (uBR10K) and Cisco Cable Modem Termination System.

CCAP is a new cable access architecture backed by CableLabs that combines the functions of two key technologies: the cable modem termination system (powers DOCSIS and other high-speed broadband services) and edge QAM (powers video services). Combining the two functions helps service providers reduce rack space, save power, and accelerate the transition to an all-IP network that can simplify the delivery of video content to multiple screens.

Cisco's new Performance Routing Engine (PRE5) and 3 Gigabit Shared Port Adapter (3GSPA) effectively double the number of downstream channels available for the uBR10K, from a total of 576 to 1,152, without needing any additional rack space. The PRE5 quadruples the chassis capacity to 40+ Gbps. Up to eight 3GSPA line cards can be used per Cisco uBR10K CMTS. Each 3GSPA card can support up to 72 downstream licenses per port.

Cisco said its new modules will allow cable service providers to make better use of their existing platform, while adopting an incremental deployment approach to using more ports, with a pay-as-you-grow business model. Trials are expected to begin in Q1 2013.

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