Broadcom first to enable full-duplex multi-gigabit broadband over copper networks

New transmission method doubles utilization of available spectrum

SAN JOSE, Calif., Oct. 24, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Broadcom Inc., (NASDAQ: AVGO) today announced the introduction of the world’s first full-duplex modem implementation based on G.fast technology. With telecom operators seeking a quick, cost-effective path to gigabit broadband, full-duplex builds on the advantages of G.fast for high-density residential environments. Rather than installing fiber all the way to the customer premise, an expensive and often impossible endeavor, an operator can bring fiber to the basement of a residential unit and rely on the existing copper or point-to-point coaxial cable plant for the final gigabit-speed connection.

Full-duplex utilizes the entire frequency spectrum of G.fast simultaneously in both the downstream and upstream communication paths, effectively doubling the simplex capacity of G.fast. Depending on the nature of an operator’s copper plant, this will result in either a doubling of the peak bandwidth, or the maximum distance from the distribution point to the customer premise, as compared with the existing G.fast standard.

Broadcom’s full-duplex implementation is available today on the production-released BCM65400 device family. The company is working closely with the next-generation G.mgfast initiative within the ITU to bring a fully-standardized full-duplex solution to the broadband market, pending completion and ratification of the new standard.

“We are excited to pioneer another innovative copper solution, one that effectively doubles the performance of current G.fast,” said Greg Fischer, senior vice president and general manager, Broadband Carrier Access, Broadcom. “Full-duplex technology will provide telecom operators with yet another option to leverage the investment in their existing copper networks, with a competitive, minimal capex multi-gigabit broadband service for many years to come.”

Broadcom is showcasing G.fast-based full-duplex in the Broadcom Booth MR10 Hall 22A this week at the Broadband World Forum 2018 exhibition in Berlin, Germany.