Rohde & Schwarz Expands Its DOCSIS Portfolio

The data-over-cable service interface specifications (DOCSIS) 3.1 enable the fast transmission of data over cable TV networks. Network operators and component manufacturers are currently faced with the challenge of implementing and integrating this standard in order to keep a competitive edge. Along with television services, data streams with extremely high data rates must be transmitted reliably. The R&S SFD from Rohde & Schwarz lets users test DOCSIS networks and devices for standard-compliant performance.

The R&S SFD signal generator produces high-quality upstream and downstream signals in real time in line with DOCSIS 3.1, DOCSIS 3.0 and J.83/A/B/C. It also supports analog cable TV standards. Depending on the standard, the signal undergoes OFDM, A-TDMA, S CDMA or analog modulation. The level, frequency, forward error correction (FEC) and constellation can be configured. The R&S SFD supports the transmission of TV services as well as data services. Data can be generated internally or fed from external sources over IP. 

Thanks to its digital signal generation capabilities, the R&S SFD is designed for testing tuners, cable modems and upstream CMTS receivers in R&D and production, as well as for simulating DOCSIS 3.1 signals in real cable segments. For realistic signal generation, the generator can add interference such as noise, phase noise, hum, tilt and even a defined bit error rate. It has an ARB generator that can generate signals with up to 200 MHz bandwidth.

The R&S SFD comes in a one-half 19″ housing that takes up merely two height units. The complex signal generation process can be conveniently configured from a PC via a web GUI. Remote control via SCPI commands enables the generator to be used in automatic test systems. The R&S SFD can be adapted to different applications thanks to its software options concept.

The new R&S SFD DOCSIS signal generator is now available from Rohde & Schwarz. It will be on display at ANGA COM in Cologne in hall 10.1, booth R7 from June 7 to 9.