Keynote speakers

ABSTRACT

Contrasting Two Approaches to High Speed Data Deployment: HFC/DOCSIS vs. HFC/ETTH

This paper compares a network based entirely on a Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC) network that is used to deliver video as well as data services, and a network that overlays an Ethernet to the Home (ETTH) network for data over an HFC network that delivers video services. This comparison is particularly valid in markets where an existing HFC network has already been deployed, and the operator is considering the most efficient way to add data, and potentially voice services, to their video service offering.

In comparing an ETTH overlay network with a DOCSIS HSD addition to an existing HFC network there are significant differences that should be considered in one's decision. The networks scale in considerably different manners. An ETTH overlay network requires significant upfront investment that must be in place before marketing can be begun. A DOCSIS-based service can be more flexible in the initial rollout phase because many areas can be supported with a minimal investment, then investment can be increased in areas that show subscriber growth.

Operational considerations are also important in this decision. An ETTH network can at first glance seem very simple operationally because of the lack of customer premises equipment and its similarities to enterprise IT infrastructure. But a closer examination indicates that DOCSIS, with its self-install capabilities and wealth of real world deployment experience, is very competitive in its operational sophistication and expense structure.

This intent of this paper is to provide the operator with information relative to service deployment and operations that must be considered when comparing these two types of architectures specifically for a high speed data rollout.

BIOGRAPHY

Fred Choy is the current Vice President of Sales in Asia Pacific for ARRIS. He has over 14 years experience in the CATV industry, initially working closely with Rogers Cable for C-COR Canada and then taking up the position of Senior Account Manager for C-COR Asia in (1996) taking care of major accounts such as Star Hub - Singapore, Hanaro - Korea, Jupiter - Japan, Kbro, CNS - Taiwan, VCTV - Vietnam, Icable - H.K., Neighborhood Cable - Australia and major operators in China. Prior to this he was an RF engineer involved in designing and developing 900MHz mobile phones (1992) and a firmware engineer involved in designing and developing satellite TV systems (1991). He obtained a B. Eng (Hons.) in Electronics Engineering, graduating from H.K. Polytechnic (1990) and received a Post Diploma with High Honours in International Business Management, graduating from Seneca College, Toronto, Canada (1994).