Two broadband Internet service providers are partnering with the maker of computer chips to develop hardware that will open the door for 25 Gigabit per second (Gbps) connections over existing networks.
The partners — Comcast Corporation, Charter Communications and Broadcom — will develop Unified DOCSIS chipsets for network nodes, smart amps and cable modems that will allow the companies and other broadband service providers to utilize existing networks with the DOCSIS 4.0 specification to eventually deliver the target connections.
Among other things, the partnership offers a number of advantages, including economics of scale for the industry, a robust vendor ecosystem and streamlined CableLabs certification and operator qualifications, the companies said.
The collaboration will also enhance current DOCSIS networks by utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools, including Broadcom’s embedded Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in network nodes. Charter and Comcast will contribute in a way that allows broadband operators to extend the current DOCSIS 4.0 standard to support higher frequencies up to 3 Gigahertz (GHz), paving the way for those target 25 Gbps connections in the future.
“By pushing the benefits of AI and ML to the edge of our network, we are maximizing network performance, improving the internet experience, and introducing new and exciting services to support our customers’ incredible appetite for more, higher quality data,” said Charlie Herrin, the President of Technology, Product and Experience at Comcast. “Supporting a single technology that can be used by all operators efficiently, over their existing networks, allows the industry to leverage its collective investment, and to increase the benefits of AI at the edge.”
“Charter, Comcast, and Broadcom are collaboratively driving industry innovation through the Unified DOCSIS 4.0 specification,” said Rich DiGeronimo, the President of Product and Technology at Charter Communications, which offers service through the Spectrum brand. “By integrating Broadcom’s cutting-edge technology into our network infrastructure and cable modems, our network will leverage artificial intelligence to enhance power, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, ultimately delivering superior services to our customers.”
“Broadcom is pleased to work with our operator partners in bringing the industry together around Unified DOCSIS,” added Charlie Kawwas, Ph. D., the President of Broadcom’s Semiconductor Solutions Group. “With the 3 GHz capabilities, we’re providing the tools for cable operators to continue to enhance the leading capabilities of their networks while competing with higher and higher speed offerings. We’ve seen the huge benefits to operators and consumers of embedded AI/ML in access networks. From advanced diagnostics and network self-healing to state-of-the-art AI-based cybersecurity, the sky’s the limit for innovative machine learning applications.”
Comcast says it will demonstrate an early version of technology that supports those 25 Gbps connections at an upcoming industry expo in Atlanta.
