GigaXtend GMC 1.8GHz Line Extender
The ATX GigaXtend™ GMC 1.8GHz Line Extender HFC amplifier is designed to assist cable operators in evolving their HFC networks to meet subscriber demand, while fully leveraging previous outside plant investments. GigaXtend GMC 1.8GHz amplifiers’ modular design allows MSOs to upgrade their outside plant through module upgrades or entire station replacements. Cable operators can upgrade 1GHz or 1.2GHz GainMaker/GigaXtend housings to support 1.8GHz through a simple drop-in upgrade.
ATX has fortified GigaXtend GMC 1.8GHz amps with new maintenance and control intelligence, as well as the ability to operate in 1.2GHz mode. Auto-alignment and all-electronic level and slope control reduce the learning curve for technicians, significantly streamlining installation and maintenance operations. Technicians can configure and tune amps using an IOS or Android device through a Bluetooth connection. An optional transponder is available for cable operators desiring additional monitoring or remote-control capabilities.
Benefits
- Trouble-Free Installation and Maintenance: ATX has fortified GigaXtend GMC 1.8GHz amps with new maintenance and control intelligence. Auto-alignment and all-electronic level and slope control reduce the learning curve for technicians, significantly streamlining installation and maintenance operations. Technicians can configure and tune amps using an iOS or Android device through a Bluetooth connection. An optional transponder is available for cable operators desiring additional monitoring or remote-control capabilities.
- Inventory Reduction: By eliminating plug-in pads and equalizers in favor of a software-based configuration, GigaXtend GMC 1.8GHz amps support automatic alignment and set-up through pre-sets and configuration files controlled through the GigaXtend Orchestrator application. In addition to reducing installation time and human error, moving to software-based installation will help technicians trim required inventory levels by potentially dozens of devices.
- In-Field Upgrades: Designed to minimize service disruptions, GigaXtend 1.8GHz amps simplify and speed upgrade procedures, such as adjustments to upstream spectrum allocation. In addition to reducing customer disruptions, the improved upgrade process eliminates the need for technicians to execute bench upgrades, which can increase the amount of time, complexity and resources required to upgrade critical equipment.
- Optimize DOCSIS 3.1 Architectures: The ability of GigaXtend 1.8GHz amplifiers to operate in 1.2GHz mode allows MSOs to fully optimize DOCSIS 3.1 networks before migratiting to DOCSIS 4.0 to deliver multigigabit symmetrical services. MSOs that never upgrade their networks beyond 1.2GHz will also benefit from the amplifiers’ built-in intelligence, which streamlines installation, improves troubleshooting and reduces network service disruptions.
Features
- Intuitive GUI application drop-in upgrade path for existing GigaXtend 1.2GHz amps and GainMaker installed base
- Based on original GainMaker technology licensed from Cisco in 2020
- Conforms to SCTE 279 1.8GHz amplifier specifications
- Auto-alignment and all-electronic level and slope control
- Configure using GigaXtend Orchestrator application that communicates with amplifier over battery-less Bluetooth adapter
- Real-time in-service frequency-split upgrades
- Spectrum capture for level setting, ALSC multi-frequency selection and troubleshooting
- Optional transponder available for remote monitoring and control
- High-performance GaN gain stage technology
- Amplifier cover that provides access to RF test points
- Power supply mounted in housing lid for efficient thermal dissipation (60- and 90-VAC powering capability)
- 15A current capacity (steady state) and 25A surge survivability
- Surge-resistant circuitry that helps ensure gain stage protection without fuses or other failure-causing devices
- Spring-loaded seizure assemblies allow coaxial connectors to be installed or removed without removing amplifier RF module
- Supports spectrum frequencies of 1.8GHz downstream and up to 684MHz upstream
Made in the U.S.A.
A critical BEAD funding qualification is purchasing equipment that is assembled in the U.S.A. ATX got a head start on that requirement when it opened a manufacturing facility in Holly, Michigan, April of 2023. Watch this video to get insight on how ATX is utilizing state-of-the-art manufacturing to crank out several hundred thousand intelligent HFC amplifiers a year.
Where Automation Meets Human Expertise
ATX and MARA Technologies’ state-of-the-art 1.8GHz HFC amplifier manufacturing plant in Holly, Michigan, features a unique symmetry of next-gen automation and human RF expertise.
Solution: Distributed Access Architecture (DAA)
ATX offers MSOs an extensive portfolio of next-generation inside and outside plant equipment that includes Video Engines, Digital Optical Transport, HFC Amplifiers and Hardline Passives, and conforms to all MSO architectures and specifications, including DAA, DOCSIS® 3.1, DOCSIS 4.0 and Extended Spectrum.
Insights
Amp Up Network Intelligence
ATX demonstrates two-way communications of next-generation amplifiers at SCTE TechExpo24
Read Press ReleaseSeven Reasons Why all Future Outside Plant Purchases Should be 1.8GHz-Capable
Even if you have no current plans to move to DOCSIS 4.0
Download GuidebookEasy as Abracadabra
Discovery why the GigaXtend Orchestrator configuration app for 1.8GHz-capable amplifiers and nodes is on everybody’s wish list for optimizing technician time.
Read BlogThe Definitive Guide to Evolving Your HFC Network
Read this step-by-step guide to find the optimal path for upgrading your HFC network in lockstep with subscriber demand and without regrettable spend.
Download White PaperTop Things to Consider when Building (or Buying) a Smart Amp
Get insights and be informed of other sources of intelligence that can be tapped into when choosing a smart HFC amplifier.
Download White PaperShould DOCSIS 3.1E Impact Your Next HFC Amplifier Purchase?
Learn about tradeoffs to consider when thinking of extending DOCSIS 3.1 vs. futureproofing the HFC network for DOCSIS 4.0.
Read Blog