Harmonic Intros Video Transport

BEIJING -- Harmonic Inc. (Nasdaq: HLIT) today introduced the MAXLink(tm) R Series 1550 nm broadcast video transport system which is designed to meet the performance, management and cost requirements of small to mid-sized cable operators. Based on Harmonic-patented technology and industry-leading hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) network expertise, the new solution incorporates best-in-class transmitter, optical amplifier and broadband receiver components-each in a compact one rack unit (1RU) enclosure-to enable a more flexible and economical way of carrying a full line-up of analog and/or digital television services. The overall capabilities and operational simplicity of the MAXLink R Series will be particularly attractive to operators in regions such as China.

Comprised of Harmonic's MAXLink 1550 nm high-performance transmitter (HLT 7000R), low input power optical amplifiers (HOA 7100 series) and stand-alone broadband optical receiver (HRM 7811R), the system can transport a range of analog and/or digital broadcast television services over fiber networks. The high performance of the MAXLink 7000R coupled with the low input power capability of the HOA 7100 extends the unamplified link length allowing more flexibility in the placement of network components. This reduces the number of active network components, rendering a lower overall cost of deployment and increased reliability due to fewer potential points of failure.

"As cable embraces the challenge of delivering the video, voice and data triple play, there is a need for an efficient and cost-effective way to provision a competitive range of broadcast television services," said Fernando Amendola, Transport Solutions Product Manager at Harmonic Inc. "Harmonic has applied its deep expertise and technology leadership in broadband networking to develop a transmission system that provides the right price/performance and price/functionality for small and mid-sized cable operators. The resulting MAXLink-based solution offers better reach, performance and quality than 1550 nm transport systems available elsewhere."

The MAXLink R Series is a cost-effective solution for a variety of existing and emerging applications and architectures. This includes mid-distance headend-to-hub transport in HFC networks that require a range beyond that of 1310 nm transmitters but less than that of Harmonic's best-in-class MAXLink Plus, the market's highest performance 1550 nm transmission system.

Harmonic Inc.