Huawei introduces Intelligent Optical Distribution Network prototype

Huawei has introduced its Intelligent Optical Distribution Network (iODN) prototype, offering multiple intelligence functions, enabling operators to automatically locate and operate target optical fibers, and paving the way for massive fiber to the home (FTTH) rollouts.

"FTTx networks are now being deployed on a massive scale all over the globe and ODN is garnering more and more attention from operators worldwide. This new prototype, along with our expertise in end-to-end ODN delivery, including planning and engineering, will pave the way for massive fiber to the home rollouts," says Wang Dexiang, director of Huawei's ODN Service Department.

The deployment of fiber to the x (FTTx) networks is increasing rapidly, with the number of optical fibers being used growing exponentially. When working with optical networks, operators face two major issues: the high error rate when optical fiber connection data is entered manually, and the low efficiency and continuity constraints that occur when optical fibers are manually connected or optical faults are manually identified and located, says a company representative.

Huawei's iODN prototype can address these challenges through intelligent optical fiber management, including setup and management of optical fiber connections. It is designed to automate the identification and the collection of optical fiber connections and splitters, ensure that optical faults are correctly located, improves maintenance efficiency, and simplify and enhance operation and maintenance efficiency.

Tiscali, ZTE partner for broadband, starting with FTTH network in Sardinia

Independent Italian carrier Tiscali and Chinese communications systems vendor ZTE say they have signed a strategic framework agreement for deployment of ultra-wide broadband in Italy. The first step of the partnership will see deployment of an FTTH network in Sardinia.

The partnership between ZTE and Tiscali will include collaboration from a technology and trade/financial standpoint to evaluate, study, and design next-generation services that Tiscali can provide to its customer base.

In the first phase of the project Tiscali and ZTE will implement an FTTH fiber-optic network in Sardinia. The deployment will leverage ongoing work for the local gas network in the extended Cagliari area, which includes over 50 thousand lines of local loop unbundling coverage.

Renato Soru, Tiscali CEO, said, "Our country cannot afford either the lack of next-generation network infrastructure or delays due to ongoing discussions. That is why we confirm our commitment to reach the ultimate goal of setting up in Italy a broadband network that will place the country among the most advanced in the world. We are working with ZTE with the aim of setting up a network open to all the operators and that we hope it will be part of the wider national network."