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Flexible Network Deployments

A variety of network topologies are supported by the BigBand BEQ, spanning centralized and distributed server deployments. BigBand Networks uses cost-effective GigE IP transport over CWDM or DWDM to deliver huge amounts of video content enabling an operator to build a network architecture that provides the best financial returns and future-proof migration versatility. For example, an inventory of less frequently-requested content such as cult movies and niche programs could be kept at large, centralized server farms to minimize storage costs, while popular content, such as recent blockbuster movies and current hit shows, could be distributed among hub locations in order to minimize delays in delivering it to subscribers.

Inter-facility and intra-facility connectivity is flexible, as the BigBand BEQ supports a variety of topologies including bidirectional fiber rings, diversely-routed 1+1 linear systems, and mesh configurations. Switchover occurs in 50 ms or less in the event of a service degradation or other failure mode.

Five standard GigE interfaces support connectivity with multiple VOD servers with different interfaces by providing 1 fixed 10/100/1000BaseT RJ45 port and 4 modular optical GigE ports. SFP (small form-factor pluggable) connectors are used for a broad range of CWDM and DWDM transport options.

Superior RF Performance

Best-of-breed RF performance enables the BigBand BEQ6000 to provide a high quality signal at levels that are higher than industry standards and are far superior to other QAM devices. This simplifies combining and reduces the number of amplifiers required in the headend; both leading to improved network availability. Additionally, the higher signal quality (as measured by modulation error ratio or MER) increases the probability that subscribers will enjoy high quality video and fast cable modem service, even in last-mile environments were the network may be impaired. Consequently, cable operators can expect fewer enquiries from subscribers concerned about picture quality or cable modem download speeds, and experience a reduction in field service calls. The BigBand BEQ features a superior processing power to power consumption ratio and is characterized by industry-leading low HVAC requirements.

Easy Installation and Operation

BigBand VOD can be deployed quickly to best facilitate compelling service launches. The BigBand BEQ management software provides a user-friendly GUI with screens that are accessed via a tree hierarchy and navigated intuitively. Convenient features such as local and remote platform configuration, alarm troubleshooting and rapid software upgrades are included. During initialization the platform automatically discovers chassis, network topology, and the number of QAM cards in each chassis, shortening installations and time-to-revenue.

Future-Proof Deployments

The innovative BigBand BEQ is a platform for dynamically allocating QAM resources in response to subscriber access behavior, which applies to all switched video services. The platform also supports cost-effective delivery of broadcast services, while proving the opportunity for dramatic bandwidth improvements through switched digital video in which programs are only directed towards service groups with real-time demand. VOD and switched digital video deployments can evolve such that BEQ QAM resources and associated bandwidth are pooled for open allocation to either, depending on the relative demand for each service at any point in time. The platform also meets all CableLabs^® Modular-CMTS specifications, including DTI (DOCSIS timing interface) and supports the E1/T1 standards-based BITs timing interface. The synergies achieved by a combination of BigBand BEQ and market leading CMTS core platforms result in dramatic improvement in the costs of delivering DOCSIS services providing an operator with the best current VOD solution and a future-proof platform for all video, voice and data services.