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Virgin Media bumps its top broadband speed up to 200Mbps
With a £3 billion investment in its network, Virgin Media is looking to connect homes up and down Britain to its network for the first time. But that doesn't mean it's not thinking about the people it already calls customers. Today, the company launched Vivid, a new name for ultrafast broadband packages that have been given a welcome speed boost. Customers have been able to choose from 50Mbps, 100Mbps and 152Mbps speeds in the past, but with Vivid, they'll be upgraded to 70Mbps, Vivid 150Mbps and Vivid 200Mbps.
Comcast's gigabit internet should be widely available by 2018
Don't despair if you're a Comcast customer jonesing for super-fast gigabit internet access -- it'll come your way eventually. The cable company's network architecture VP explains to FierceCable that the broadband technology needed for this kind of service (the DOCSIS 3.1 standard) should reach Comcast's entire customer base within two to three years, or no later than 2018. The current goal is to finish the rollout within two years, he says.
Motorola Mobility launches Android-powered HMC3260 'Cloud Broadband' media streamer
Motorola will be supplying China's WASU Digital Group, a cable and broadband provider, with the HMC3260 Android entertainment device for cloud-based, broadband internet streaming. Dubbed "Cloud Broadband" by the operator, the device will provide the primary connection for "hybrid fiber coax networks," while also offering an 18.5-inch touchscreen interface, based on an unnamed flavor of Android. WASU claims the device will allow "easy access and search" for on-demand HD video services, storage, games and apps, on top of regular cable TV services. There's no mention of internal storage or any other specs or service details, but adding an Android-based touchscreen to a broadband connection device? Sounds like a promising idea.
Netgear melds 802.11ac WiFi with cable modem, gives us a cable gateway we'd actually like
If you're reading this, you're likely the sort who looks down on the hybrid cable modem and WiFi gateway your cable company foists upon you: it's like setting your wireless network in stone. Netgear is hoping to make that all-in-one experience a little more pleasurable by merging the best of two very fast worlds. It's planning to show a cable gateway (not pictured yet) that unites a DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem, no slouch in itself, with even speedier 802.11ac WiFi to share the connection in the home. The router side has all the familiar extras, such as DLNA media sharing, guest networks and shared USB storage, but it's clear the real perk is simply making sure the hundreds of megabits per second in bandwidth from that cable pipe carry through to your future laptops and tablets. Netgear hasn't said how close it might be to shipping the cable gateway, but it'll be showing the practical device at the ANGA Cable trade show this week -- along with a 1.2Gbps download, 320Mbps upload cable modem that could give even Google Fiber a run for its money.
Kabel Deutschland sets record with 4.7Gbps download speeds
About a year ago, Arris teased a system capable of 4.5Gbps downloads, and while that technology was in the proof-of-concept phase last June, it's beginning to look more like a real possibility. German network provider Kabel Deutschland just notched a new download speed record using Arris' C4 CMTs and Touchstone CM820S cable modems: a mind-blowing 4,700 Mbps (4.7 Gbps). The cable operator set that world-record rate in the city of Schwerin, where it recently updated its network to 862 MHz. The network may be capable of delivering those 4.7Gbps speeds, but the company noted that current laptops and modems can't even process such blazing data transfer rates. And before you North Americans get too excited, note that KD uses the EuroDOCSIS specification on the 8MHz channel, while the DOCSIS uses the 6MHz scheme in the US and beyond. Still, that's not to say that other cable providers like Verizon FiOS have been slacking lately -- 300Mbps downloads are nothing to scoff at.
Netgear at CES 2012: Powerline, wireless routers, home networking and more
As it seems to do every year, Netgear's chosen the Consumer Electronics Show to unveil, well... everything under the sun. Up first, the outfit's launching its WN2500RP, a universal dual-band WiFi range extender ($89.99) that runs both 2.4 GHz and 5GHz bands concurrently. Over on the home networking side, the Powerline 500 Nano and N900 convert a conventional wall outlet into a high-speed network connection, with the former shipping this quarter for $119.99 and the latter this summer for $79.99. Over on the non-product side, Netgear's trumpeting its reception of CableLabs DOCSIS 3.0 certification for the industry's first voice and data gateways (CGD3700B / CGE3700B) with concurrent dual-band WiFi. Head on past the break for specifics across the whole line.
Comcast Cable Show 2011 demo features 1Gbps cable modem speeds, new Xfinity TV UI
As promised, Comcast CEO Brian Roberts treated Cable Show 2011 attendees to a quick demo of the company's latest and greatest tech earlier today. The presentation consisted of the new Xfinity TV platform with all its cloud processing and internet content from Facebook and others, as well as a speed test running on a Comcast cable modem that broke through the 1Gbps speed barrier on the production network. There's no word on when home users might see such speeds but the company promised to "keep up the pace as the internet continues to evolve" -- let's hope that extends to the increasingly restrictive 250GB bandwidth cap. The demo of new DVR software also went off without a hitch, appearing to run smoothly and showing off a vision of "cloud processing" that speeds up search, personalization and recommendations in the program guide by handling them at the head end instead of on the box itself. We're still waiting to get our hands on the RF remote and see if the experience is just as smooth ourselves, but for now you can get a taste in the 17 minute video embedded above.
Arris' cable technology teases us with 4.5Gbps download speeds
Think your cable connection's fast? Arris thinks it could be a lot faster. At today's NCTA Cable Show in Chicago, the company will demo a new system that can support download speeds of 4.5Gbps, and upload rates of 575Mbps. To achieve this, Arris devoted more of its DOCSIS 3.0 cable channels to broadband (128 downstream, 24 upstream), sourced through a C4 cable module (pictured on the left). Of course, this would leave less space for conventional TV channels, but we're guessing the accelerated streaming speeds would more than make up for it. Unfortunately, the prototype is still in the proof-of-concept phase, so it may be a while before you reap its benefits. Head past the break for the full PR.
Arris confirms the Shaw Gateway DVR's Moxi bloodlines, hints at more to come
The six tuner Shaw Gateway DVR we mentioned recently is built on Arris hardware, and now the company revealed more information about its Whole Home Solution setup at its core. The press release after the break details the specs used by Shaw's implementation (500GB hard drive, HD UI, four port router, MoCa and optional WiFi N) plus additional capabilities the Shaw Gateway hasn't taken advantage of yet (over the top video from the internet, VoIP, an integrated DOCSIS 3.0 modem and user media sharing). We spoke to Senior VP of Marketing and Development Stan Brovont and found out that this particular project has been under development for about a year now, and many of the features are in response to focus groups indicating that the number of tuners and hard drive space (the 500GB drive was up to Shaw) were among the most important features. While he did mention there were other partnerships not yet announced in the pipeline and couldn't comment on any potential return to retail for the Moxi-derived system, our friend Dave Zatz dug up a Multichannel News post mentioning a similar system coming to Oregon local provider BendBroadband. Check the Arris press release after the break for more details, we'll keep holding out hope for another retail DVR option in the marketplace.
Cox breaks return cable upload record with Motorola's help, subscribers still waiting for their cable guy
There's a somewhat narrow category here, but Cox Communications just set a benchmark for bandwidth on its Las Vegas network thanks to an RX48 DOCSIS 3.0 receiver from Motorola. That rate is 356Mbps on a 5 - 85MHz return path, which correlates to upstream performance on a cable modem. The company says the tests "demonstrate that Cox's HFC networks are much more future proof than many have believed" and that they "have the capability to support much higher data speeds than today without the need to replace any of the amplifiers, taps or cables." That will naturally leave Cox subscribers with just one question: how long until my uploads are that fast?
Rogers rolls out 50Mbps DOCSIS 3.0 service, 802.11n router
Well, it looks like Canadians no longer need to be envious of some of the speedy internet options available south of the border, as Rogers has just announced the roll-out of its own DOCSIS 3.0-based service that matches the likes of Comcast's offering. As you might expect, however, coverage is limited to the Greater Toronto Area to begin with, although Rogers is promising that it'll be rolled out to some other, yet to be specified areas in the "coming months." What's more, Rogers is also introducing a new 802.11n router alongside the service, and it's even giving one away to the first fifty customers that sign up for the Ultimate service (priced at $150 per month). After those are gone (and some do indeed still seem to be available), the router will sell for $200.[Via Electronista]
Motorola debuts world's first retail DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems
You'll still need the love and support of your dear cable provider, but if you're within range of DOCSIS 3.0 service, you can bypass at least one aspect of dealing with your local monopoly ISP. Starting this week, Motorola is launching the planet's first retail DOCSIS 3.0 cable modems, which enable speeds up to four times faster than DOCSIS 2.0. The SURFboard SB6120 DOCSIS 3.0 eXtreme cable modem will soon be cluttering up shelves at Fry's Electronics, presumably just beside the incredibly deceiving Monster Cable demonstration area. There's no word on price just yet, but don't expect such a luxury item to run you cheap, okay?
Virgin Media testing DOCSIS 3.0 to new limits with 200Mbps, 3D and 1080p
Forget 101Mbps Internet service or even the 160Mbps available in on J:COM in Japan, Virgin Media is about to put a lucky few of its slick new modems to real work, testing 200Mbps internet, "full HD" broadband content (we take that to mean 1080p) and 3D. All delivered via DOCSIS 3.0, the downside is that at least for the next six months this pilot project will be extended only to about 100 "lead adopters" around Ashford, Kent for testing. We've heard all we need to get packed for a move, how about you?[Via Hexus]
Sony Style Comcast Labs opens to show off future of high-speed internet
Eager to see what life's like on a Sony VAIO hitting speeds in excess of 160Mbps? Head on over to the City of Brotherly Love, as that's where a flashy new retail location is opening up to simultaneously showcase the future of high-speed internet and Sony gear. The Sony Style Comcast Labs facility will open its doors to the public tomorrow in Philadelphia's Comcast Center, where onlookers will be able to check out the power of DOCSIS 3.0 as well as some applications and platforms being developed to take advantage of all that speed. As far as we can tell, this co-branded location is nothing more than a showcase of current and future products for both firms, though we fully anticipate that reps will be on hand to take orders of whatever you fall for while browsing around. Anyone down for checking it out?
Charter launching 60Mbps broadband, asks "FiOS what?"
Still waiting for Verizon's FiOS to come and light up your neighborhood with blistering download speeds? Now you have something even faster to wait for, with Charter Communications announcing it is launching a 60Mbps broadband service, utilizing DOCSIS 3.0 to fit more bits in the same pipes -- not quite the 160Mbps Comcast predicted, but we'll take it. What the company isn't announcing is when people will be able to tap into this or how much they'll pay for the privilege, but hopefully it'll be a little less than the $140 Verizon is charging.Update: We found word of prices and, go figure, the service costs exactly the same as FiOS: $140 per month. But, you can save $10 if you bundle it with TV or phone service.
Comcast's DOCSIS 3.0 high-speed internet rolls to Chicago
Another month, another city or two seeing the beauty that is DOCSIS 3.0. As Comcast continues on its quest to offer the blazing fast internet speeds in 100 percent of its markets by 2010, we're told that the great city of Chicago (or its suburbs, more specifically) now has access. Existing customers will see a speed boost at no additional cost, and those still unsatisfied can opt for a $62.95 per month 22Mbps down / 5Mbps up or $139.95 per month 50Mbps / 10Mbps connection. DSLReports has also mentioned that San Francisco should be getting upgraded in the not-too-distant future, so if you call the Bay your home, keep an eye out.[Via Electronista]
Comcast readies DOCSIS 3.0 rollouts for Chicago, Atlanta, Baltimore and Ft. Wayne
Comcast promised us all a few months back that it would be bringing its wicked fast DOCSIS 3.0 technology to a handful of other big markets before too long, and today the carrier has chosen to reveal the next four places where said service will be made available. The high-speed internet service, which is capable of hitting 50Mbps down / 5Mbps up, will be launched "over the next several weeks" in Chicago, Atlanta, Baltimore and Ft. Wayne, Indiana. Don't see your city listed? Hang tight -- the next wave should be announced in the not-too-distant future.
Charter CTO talks up 2009 plans: HD expansion, DOCSIS 3.0, etc.
Charter's CTO, Marwan Fawaz, recently sat down with MultiChannel to talk business, particularly business plans for 2009. Some of the highlights included his confession that DOCSIS 3.0 would only be piloted in a select few markets next year, his admission that the carrier wouldn't reach its goal of 40 HD channels across its entire footprint, and his completely unrelated blabbering when asked about tru2way. More specifically, Fawaz noted that it was "adding a significant amount of HD channels," but rather than just tossing in linear networks, it's adding on-demand. Not everything was less-than-stellar news, however, as he did state that it was just about ready to tee up switched digital video in a number of regions (albeit a tad late), Los Angeles included. We'd say you could hit the read link for a look at the full interview, but unless you're looking for reasons to feel depressed, we'd actually advise against it.[Thanks, Josh]
Cablevision and Charter gear up for DOCSIS 3.0 rollouts
Comcast nabbed the first US DOCSIS 3.0 deployment award by pushing the technology out to select Minnesota residents in April, but both Charter and Cablevision are making sure to not fall too far behind. During its most recent quarter earnings call, Cablevision COO Tom Rutledge noted that DOCSIS 3.0 would be "operational this year," with around 20% of its footprint going live in 2008 and 100% to be covered by mid-2010. Charter is also poised to introduce the lightning fast broadband capabilities to its loyal customers, with CEO Neil Smit affirming that it would be launched in at least some markets "later in the year." We'd like to think this means we can all look forward to 100Mbit/sec cable internet in the not-too-distant future, but who knows how long it'll take those other MSO's to join the bandwagon.[VIA DSLReports]Read - Cablevision DOCSIS 3.0 rolloutRead - Charter DOCSIS 3.0 rollout
France's Numericable debuts 1080p full HD VOD
That DOCSIS 3.0 technology isn't going to waste, as Numericable is apparently going to be one of the first providers to broadcast 1080p content. The 11.25Mbps MPEG-4 streams will include videos from CinéPlay, TF1 Vision and I-Concerts, so you can check out Amy Winehouse's tattoos, pockmarks and teeth in glorious full HD, before quickly switching to National Treasure for some eyebleach. Those with the Cablebox HD can get the titles for €4.99/€3.99/€2.99 depending on the type. All we can say for U.S. operators is where's ours?
