Verizon says the new network design is less expensive to build, quicker to deploy and addresses the ‘unique complexities’ of distributed end users
Verizon used its mmWave spectrum holdings and fiber infrastructure to demonstrate point-to-multipoint internet service to multi-dwelling units (MDUs) in a network design that the carrier said would be “less expensive to build, quicker to deploy, and addresses the unique complexities of distributed end users in a single facility or small area such as a residential unit with a large population.”
Using its 37 GHz to 39 GHz spectrum, Verizon established an airlink between a centralized, rooftop radio site and a radio located on top of a simulated multi-end-point building. Then, the signal was transmitted via coaxial cable throughout the building to a data processing unit and a corresponding modem. The signal was transported to the end user routers through the building’s existing wiring, delivering broadband coverage to the simulated end points.
“Instead of transmitting the data through Verizon’s 4G and 5G wireless cores, this unique architecture uses a simplified Broadband Network Gateway to direct the traffic to and from the internet over Verizon’s public IP network,” Verizon explained. “This means that data traffic will not add load on Verizon’s current wireless cores while at the same time providing excellent capacity and latency.”
According to Adam Koeppe, SVP of technology planning for Verizon, the carrier has been working on the assets to make such a design possible for several years. “Leveraging our significant fiber footprint in over 70 major markets nationwide and large amounts of ready-to-use mmWave spectrum, this new architecture means we will be able to provide point-to-multipoint architecture in a cost effective and efficient way,” he continued.
In addition to home broadband for multi dwelling units, Verizon said this mmWave network design can be used for distributed enterprise campuses and commerce areas. It also said it expects to continue developing this technology throughout this year.
