Implementing ST's Zipper-DMT technology, two-chip set supports all VDSL-DMT standards and frequency plans
STMicroelectronics has introduced a Very High Bitrate Digital Subscriber Line (VDSL) chipset based on the Company's Zipper-DMT technology that delivers an aggregate data rate in excess of 100-Mbits/s over short loops, enabling a variety of broadband services. Called ZipperWireTM, the chipset will find application in Virtual Private Networks, high-quality video conferencing and multi-channel streamed audio and video. Because it supports data rates up to 100Mbps, it suits a broad range of different service classes covering various asymmetric and symmetric data rates.
Designed for both central-office and customer-premises-equipment applications, the ZipperWire chipset integrates a complete Frequency Division Duplex DMT VDSL modem from the line to the ATM interface in just two chips, the STLC90115 Discrete Multi Tone Modulation (DMT) Processor and the STLC90114 Integrated Analog Front End. The chipset supports all of the international VDSL-DMT standards (ITU-T, T1e1.4, ETSI) and is compliant with the 997, 998 and Flex frequency plans. Furthermore, these standards and interoperability have been successfully tested through the VDSL-DMT Interoperability Initiative that is now underway between major chipset and system vendors.
The ZipperWire chipset offers a choice of data rates from 64kbps to 100Mbps in both directions with a reach of up to 4.5kfeet. Upstream and downstream traffic can be programmed with fine granularity for a wide range of symmetric and asymmetric combinations, providing flexibility for new services and evolving standards. In addition it guarantees spectral compatibility with ADSL, SDSL, ISDN and strong immunity to both bridged taps and radio frequency interference.
Compatibility with ADSL is an important benefit because telecom network operators are expected to deploy multi-standard ADSL/VDSL equipment in central offices first, preparing for a smooth transition when VDSL services are rolled out. This approach allows the VDSL capability to be added at little extra cost during ADSL deployment, eliminating the need for massive re-investment when VDSL services emerge.
To ensure interoperability of VDSL equipment, in February 2002 STMicroelectronics and other DMT-VDSL chipset suppliers launched an initiative to ensure that the chipsets made by each manufacturer are interoperable with all of the others. This will accelerate the deployment of VDSL services by allowing network operators to mix equipment in the same area.
The ZipperWire VDSL chipset is available now. Evaluation boards and a complete modem reference design are also available.
