Executive Summary
The Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC) Outside Plant (OSP) Physical (PHY) Layer Specification is part of the suite of specifications developed by the Hybrid Management Sub-Layer (HMS) subcommittee under the SCTE. The purpose of the HMS specifications is to support the design and implementation of interoperable management systems for evolving HFC cable networks. The HMS Physical (PHY) Layer Specification describes the physical layer portion of the protocol stack used for communication between HMS-compliant transponders interfacing to manage outside plant network elements (NE) and a centralized headend element (HE).
The suite of narrowband transponder specifications includes:
- SCTE 25-1 describes a Physical Layer for a narrowband transponder.
- SCTE 25-2 describes a MAC Layer for a narrowband transponder.
- A narrowband transponder based on LoRaWAN® technology, which is expected to be published soon.
The SCTE also maintains a suite of information models (e.g., SCTE 283) and data models (SCTE 38-1 through SCTE 38-11) for devices which are connected to the coaxial cable network via a transponder.
Additionally, the CableLabs Remote PHY specification [R-OOB] provides information on carrying signals, such as this narrowband transponder, over the Remote PHY architecture.
Scope
This specification describes the PHY layer requirements that must be implemented by all Type 2 and Type 3 compliant OSP HMS transponders on the HFC plant and the controlling equipment in the headend. Any exceptions to compliance with this specification will be specifically noted in this document as necessary. Refer to Table 1 for a full definition of the Type Classifications.
Note - Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) is not specified in this standard and is left to the vendor to ensure compliance with local EMC regulatory requirements. Other than operating temperature, physical parameters such as shock, vibration, humidity, etc., are also not specified and left to the vendor’s discretion.
Benefits
This document describes the Physical Layer for a narrowband transponder used with devices attaching to a coaxial cable network. This version includes updated information for new channel plans and new technology available to implement a narrowband transponder.
This narrowband transponder will allow devices connected to a coaxial cable network to communicate with users, applications and other resources provided by the network operator. This connection will allow remote configuration, access to telemetry and alarms, and long-term support making the coaxial cable network more reliable by providing proactive information about the state of the device with the transponder.
The impact on the broadband industry will be more reliable networks and higher customer satisfaction.
Intended Audience
The intended audience for this document includes cable operators, suppliers and other parties interested in both cable technology and connected devices.