UTStarcom introduced a Gigabit Ethernet Passive Optical Network (EPON) product family that includes Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching and routing functionality. The platform is based on the forthcoming IEEE 802.3ah specification, which is expected to be ratified in July 2004.
UTStarcom’s BBS 1000 family includes an Optical Line Termination System (OLT) for deployment at the Central Office (CO) as well as an Optical Network Unit (ONU) for deployment in a customer premises. The OLT 100 provides a direct optical interface to the Ethernet/IP network core, while the ONU 100 terminates the PON at the customer premise. The platform supports up to eight PON links, each capable of delivering one Gbps of shared bandwidth to 32 residential and business subscribers. It can service a maximum of 256 subscribers from a compact 1U chassis.
UTStarcom’s BBS 1000 is in currently in customer trials. The company said carriers in Asia are currently initiating RFPs for PON-based FTTP solutions. Volume shipments are expected by the end of the year.
Separately, UTStarcom announced a partnership with Passave to develop EPON equipment for fiber-based access networks worldwide. http://www.utstarcom.comhttp://www.passave.com
