Description of Cisco uBR7246 Cable Router

As shown in Figure 38, the Cisco uBR7246 serves as an interface between a WAN backbone and an HFC cable plant. Typically installed at a CATV headend, the Cisco uBR7246 is often located with the following internet service provider-related components:

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Ethernet switch

Proxy server

WAN Router

The Ethernet switch is used to reduce traffic on the WAN backbone.

The proxy server usually functions as a Web cache for host computers, and the DHCP/TFTP server for cable modems. DHCP for host computers in the HFC plant is often handled over the WAN. The WAN router provides a gateway to the data network.

On the RF side, the downstream port is assigned a 6-8 MHz channel slot at a standard broadcast CATV frequency. An upconverter device is used to convert the 44 MHz intermediate frequency (IF) output to the assigned slot. In North America, carrier frequencies in the forward plant are assigned between 54-860 MHz. After upconversion, the signal is combined with other analog TV or digital TV signals and sent to the transmit input of a fiber transceiver.

The receive input of the fiber transceiver is connected to an upstream port of the Cisco uBR7246. The upstream port is assigned a 0.2-3.2 MHz frequency band in the reverse plant. In North America, carrier frequencies in the reverse plant are between 5-42 MHz.

The fiber transceiver is connected to up to 80 kilometers of optical fiber. Signals are carried in analog form to a neighborhood where they terminate in a fiber node. The fiber node, located on a telephone pole or in an underground box, converts the optical signal back to an electrical signal, which is passed on to a two-way, distribution amplifier system. The distribution amplifier system passes through the neighborhood where it is tapped off to individual CATV subscribers. Typically, there are 500-1500 homes passed per fiber node.

A coaxial cable delivers the signal from the tap to a subscriber’s drop box. From the drop box, the signal is split and cabled to consumer CATV appliances. In addition to analog or digital television, the subscriber obtains data services using a cable modem appliance, like the Cisco uBR904 cable modem.

Benefits of Cisco uBR7246

The Cisco uBR7246 features bring value to the digital broadband network by:

•Enabling the cost-effective deployment of advanced routing capabilities deep into the cable network.

•Combining the power and functionality of a Cisco 7200 series router with the high-speed network access of a Cable Modem Termination Shelf (CMTS). By combining these two essential functions, the Cisco uBR7246 router conserves valuable headend rack space, and it allows cable operators to deploy routing capability in every CMTS location, which improves network performance.

Configuring Cisco uBR7246 Universal Broadband Router Features VC-135

uBR7246 specifications

The Cisco uBR7246 is a versatile edge router designed primarily for cable operators wishing to deliver high-speed Internet, telephony, and video services over hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC) networks. This router is part of Cisco's extensive line of broadband access solutions, addressing the increasing demand for bandwidth among consumers and businesses alike.

One of the uBR7246's main features is its ability to support a wide range of broadband technologies including DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification) and EuroDOCSIS. The router is designed to facilitate the delivery of high-speed data services while allowing for flexible configurations that adapt to evolving network technologies. This is crucial for operators looking to maximize their network efficiency and future-proof their infrastructure.

The uBR7246 is equipped with multiple modular slots, enabling service providers to customize the router according to their specific needs. High-capacity interface cards can be added to support various types of connections, such as Ethernet and TDM (Time Division Multiplexing), thus offering scalability. With support for both DOCSIS 1.0 and advanced versions like DOCSIS 3.0 and 3.1, the router can handle increased data rates and offer maximum efficiency in terms of bandwidth utilization.

Security features are integral to the uBR7246, as it employs advanced measures such as encryption and robust authentication protocols to ensure that subscriber data remains secure. This is particularly vital in an era where cyber threats are pervasive, and customer trust is essential.

In terms of performance, the uBR7246 offers exceptional throughput, capable of efficiently managing vast amounts of traffic without degradation of service. Advanced Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms help prioritize traffic, ensuring that high-demand applications like video streaming and VoIP receive the necessary bandwidth they require for optimal performance.

The router is also designed with operational ease in mind, offering centralized management capabilities through Cisco's suite of management tools. This allows operators to monitor performance, manage configurations, and troubleshoot issues more efficiently, reducing downtime and enhancing service reliability.

In summary, the Cisco uBR7246 is a powerful and flexible solution that meets the demands of modern broadband delivery. Its advanced technologies, modular design, high-level security features, and robust performance make it an ideal choice for cable operators aiming to provide high-quality services to their subscribers while staying ahead of the competition.