Comcast and Nortel Networks Test 100G Wavelength

March 24, 2008

Comcast Corp. has partnered with Nortel Networks to conduct the first test of a 100 Gbit/s line rate optical transmission solution this week. Comcast and Nortel timed the trial to coincide with the 71st meeting of the Internet Engineering Task Force which Comcast is hosting this year.

First Ever Trial Over an Existing Network

This was the first trial for live Internet traffic to run over a 100 Gbit/s wavelength on Comcast’s existing fiber network which currently delivers 10 and 40 Gbit/s links. The test utilized existing metro and long-haul fibers which connect Philadelphia and McLean, Va., that currently support high-definition video, voice traffic, and Internet on Comcast’s national network.

Important Test for Next Generation of High Bandwidth Services

In a technological environment where 100G is definitely a hot topic, Comcast says the test of this 100 Gbit/s solution will provide important information on how developing technology will support the next generation of high bandwidth services, although the technology is not expected to become available commercially until 2010 at the earliest.

Comcast Fiber Network Makes Project Infinity Possible

In addition to the 100 Gbit/s test, Comcast’s fiber network will play a significant part in Project Infinity, the cable operator’s new initiative which will offer a mix of more than 1,000 high-definition options by the end of 2008 - a 400 percent increase in the company’s current high-definition offerings.

Comcast’s future goal for Project Infinity is to offer more than 6,000 movies a month - half of which will be available in high-definition - in 2009.