Siemens, Calix Team on FTTx

BOCA RATON, Fla. and PETALUMA, Calif. -- Siemens Communications, Inc., and Calix today announced interoperability between the Calix C7 multiservice access platform and the new Siemens® broadband passive optical network (BPON) family of solutions. The two portfolios provide standards-based, flexible and robust fiber to the premise (FTTP) optical network terminal (ONT) and optical network unit (ONU) solutions. Together, Siemens and Calix are promoting standards-compliant G.983 BPON solutions to make FTTP network deployments simpler and quicker for wireline service providers.

Operating as a BPON optical line terminal (OLT), the Calix C7 platform allows service providers to deliver an identical mix of voice, data and video services to both fiber-connected and copper wire-connected subscribers. The Siemens family of FTTP ONT/ONU products is deployable in multiple environments such as single-family residences, businesses and multi-dwelling housing units.

The combined solution allows service providers to deliver a rich array of packet-based voice, data and video services. In addition to supporting cable overlay as a video overlay method, utilizing a dedicated optical wavelength on the downstream BPON facility, the Siemens/Calix solution offers fully switched Internet protocol television (IPTV) services. With IPTV, service providers can offer a compelling new package of video services.

"With a standards-based approach to FTTP, service providers can independently select the best OLTs and ONTs to develop their networks to full potential," said Harald Braun president of the Carrier Networks Division for Siemens Communications, Inc. "Both Siemens and Calix are committed to delivering proven interoperable solutions that greatly simplify FTTP deployments."

"Service providers learned long ago that it is in their best interest to be able to select from a set of interoperable solutions," said Calix CEO Carl Russo. "Utilizing ONTs and ONUs from a large, stable supplier like Siemens, while taking advantage of the capacity and flexibility inherent in the Calix C7, gives providers the best of both worlds."

Interoperability between Siemens and Calix products is certified as part of the CalixCompatible Service Assurance Program. Under the terms of this program, Siemens and Calix jointly conduct ongoing interoperability testing at the large-scale, California-based CalixCompatible test labs, which include a complete video head end. The two companies will also work closely with service providers to ensure rapid and trouble-free rollout of ultra-broadband, packet-based fiber access networks.

Siemens Communications Group

Calix Networks Inc.