- Harmonic (HLIT, Financial) launches the SeaStar™ Optical Node, enabling gigabit broadband speeds for multi-dwelling units (MDUs) without extensive infrastructure upgrades.
- The node supports speeds of 8 Gbps downstream and 1.5 Gbps upstream, serving up to 16 MDUs from a single node within a 5 km range.
- The SeaStar node integrates with Harmonic's cOS™ platform, eliminating traditional broadband challenges and reducing capital expenses.
Harmonic (HLIT) has unveiled its SeaStar™ Optical Node, a breakthrough solution designed to dramatically enhance broadband connectivity for multi-dwelling units (MDUs) by using existing coaxial infrastructure. This innovation allows operators to deliver gigabit internet speeds of up to 8 Gbps downstream and 1.5 Gbps upstream without the need for costly rewiring, which significantly reduces capital expenses.
The SeaStar node is capable of supporting up to 16 MDUs from a single node, extending its coverage range up to 5 kilometers from a centralized point. This feature addresses a key challenge in the broadband industry by providing efficient and cost-effective high-speed connectivity to brownfield MDU environments.
Additionally, Harmonic's SeaStar node integrates seamlessly with the company's cOS™ virtualized broadband platform, which powers over 33 million customer premises equipment (CPE) devices worldwide. The platform's capabilities allow for streamlined management of PON and DOCSIS services, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing operating expenses.
Harmonic's new offering not only resolves common broadband issues such as optical beat interference and limited bandwidth but also future-proofs MDU networks with PON coexistence capabilities. This strategic development is expected to open up new market opportunities and expand revenue potential for broadband providers by enabling them to deliver premium services without the disruptive and expensive upgrades previously required.
