ZCorum, a provider of broadband Internet and communication solutions, and MaxLinear, a provider of radio-frequency and mixed-signal semiconductor solutions for broadband communications applications, have decided to work together to develop a software solution that will support MaxLinear-based cable systems and will leverage a portion of the DOCSIS standard that allows cable modems to see complete spectrum information from the signal coming into a home.
This new spectrum analysis tool is designed to allow operators to remotely view and analyze all channels passing through the cable modem, which serves to improve troubleshooting for both data and video subscribers. It can help identify poor Wi-Fi performance, dropouts, or dead zones.
ZCorum has already developed software-based diagnostics solutions for broadband providers, including its popular TruVizion software for cable modem and CMTS diagnostics, plus an accompanying mobile app called TechVizion.
MaxLinear, meanwhile, offers integrated radio frequency (RF) and mixed-signal integrated circuits that are used in many cable modems and set-top boxes (STB). The company’s other products such as TV tuners and receivers offer embedded remote spectrum monitoring, delivering performance and remote diagnostic data.
Scott Helms, Vice President of Technology for ZCorum said in a statement, “This solution will offer a remote view into the full spectrum of downstream channels via any compatible cable modem or STB. So, there is no need to be at the customer premise or to connect a meter.” According to Helms, in addition to a significant decrease in capital expenses for field test equipment, operators should expect to reduce truck rolls and time spent in the field tracking down problems.
Edited by Blaise McNamee