Terawave Clears DSL Constipation with Fiber

Hayward, Calif.-based Terawave Communications said it has relieved the so-called "broadband bottleneck" by uniting optical networking with digital subscriber line (DSL) technology, with its new passive optical networking (PON) gear.

Terawave, which develops optical access products, said it is coming to the aid of millions of American households and small businesses that want high-speed Internet access technology, but lie beyond the geographical distance limitations of DSL.

The company's new equipment model, the TW-150 RT, a hardened Optical Network Unit (ONU), gives telecom service providers the ability to locate DSL Access Multiplexers (DSLAMs) closer to the subscribers' premises by using fiber optic cabling as a flexible, broadband "extension cord." This combination of fiber and DSL allows service providers to quickly deploy higher bandwidth to more users, Terawave said.

Because the TW-150 RT is hardened to withstand temperatures ranging from -40 degrees to 75 degrees Celsius, it is perfect for the harsh conditions of outside plants.

The TW-150 RT was developed using the networking standards and protocols established by the FSAN (Full Service Access Network) consortium. FSAN is a forum for the world's leading telecommunications services providers and equipment suppliers to work towards a common goal of a truly broadband access network.

"PON is a `disruptive' communications technology," notes Terawave president and chief operating officer Joseph Lias in a statement. "By deploying PON, carriers can use fiber to expand the capabilities of other high-speed access applications -- such as fixed wireless or DSL -- or they can extend fiber all the way to the building."