Broadband Component QR Code Technical Requirements

Executive Summary

The purpose of this document is to provide the cable operator ecosystem with the necessary information to deliver standardized information about Network components and modules for use by cable operators. This document focuses on providing direction on two key mechanisms for the delivery of standardized information: 1) the development of consistent and useful physical labels that include serialization and QR codes and 2) the development and delivery of detailed component manufacturing information as part of advanced shipping notices.

Scope

As cable operators look to implement one of the largest upgrades in their respective Network's history, an opportunity exists to improve and standardize Network component asset management for operators across the industry. Existing Network components are currently delivered and installed throughout the Network with no uniform serialization or unique naming characteristics applied across every type of component (e.g., Media Access Control (MAC) address does not apply to all Network components).

The cable industry has moved towards alignment and standardization with tagging and serializing Network components. Label content, quick response (QR) code format, embedded information, and delivered information in this requirement document are based on a set of industry-aligned principles.

All components, subcomponents, and functional modules that are a part of the broadband Network (listed in Table 1) require a physical label, QR code, and unique Broadband Equipment Identity (BEID). The components and their related subcomponents that are in-scope are: Virtual Hub (housing, EDFA, diplexer, combiner, and splitter), ROLT (housing, EPON module, uplink module, power module), small form-factor pluggable, Node (housing, remote switch module, RPD module, RF amplifier module, power module, power hold-up module, optical switch module, OLT on a stick, adapter plate module, analog forward receiver, analog return transmitter, and digital return transmitter), Amplifier (housing, RF amplifier module, and power module), Line Extender (housing, LE module, and power module), Standby Power Supply, Tap, Splitter, Directional Coupler, Splitter, and Power Inserter.

Cable operators and their field technicians will use mobile application(s) to scan the QR code on the physical label and the captured information will be used for automated inventory systems, provisioning systems, and lifecycle management systems.

Benefits

Today, there is no standardized identifier across vendors or components for uniquely identifying each piece/unit of equipment manufactured and deployed within the Broadband Network. While serial numbers are unique within a vendor, there is no standard format across vendors to ensure uniqueness. This specification, in conjunction with the cable industry, has created an industry standard for a 15-digit alphanumeric Broadband Equipment Identity (BEID) that is a unique identity for every unit of in-scope components that is manufactured. It will be human readable on any physical label and will be the aggregated content of vendor code, device type code, manufacture year code, and an additional 7-digit alphanumeric component ID that each vendor creates.

These requirements aim to drive standardization and reduce burden on the operator ecosystem and will result in uniformity, consistency, and a reduction of time needed to accommodate otherwise varying requirements from each cable operator.

Intended Audience

The intended audience for this document is manufacturers, (sub)component vendors, field technicians, engineers, and operational teams requiring the information for automated inventory systems, provisioning systems, and lifecycle management system purposes.