Configuring Cisco uBR7246 Universal Broadband Router Features

Cisco uBR7246 universal broadband features enable the Cisco uBR7246 universal broadband router to communicate with a hybrid fiber coaxial (HFC) cable network via a Cisco MC11 cable modem card. Cisco MC11 cable modem cards allow you to connect cable modems on the HFC network to a Cisco uBR7246 in a Community Antenna Television (CATV) headend facility. The modem card provides the interface between the Cisco uBR7246 protocol control information (PCI) bus and the radio frequency (RF) signal on the HFC network. For a description of the commands used to configure universal broadband features, refer to the “Cisco uBR7246 Universal Broadband Features Commands” chapter in the Voice, Video, and Home Applications Command Reference.

The MC11 cable modem cards consist of the following components:

One downstream cable F-connector port—The downstream port supports quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM) speeds of 64-QAM, or 6 bits per symbol. A symbol is the basic unit of modulation in CATV systems.

One upstream cable F-connector port—The upstream port supports quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK) modulation, or 2 bits per symbol.

Cable Media Access Control (MAC) unit—The cable MAC frames and encrypts the downstream signal for RF transmission and passes the signal to the downstream physical layer (PHY). Reverses the signal framing and encryption on the upstream signal from the upstream PHY.

Downstream PHY unit—The downstream PHY generates a modulated, intermediate frequency (IF) output signal at a frequency of 44 MHz and passes the IF signal to an external IF to RF upconverter installed in the downstream path.

Upstream PHY unit—The upstream PHY receives the modulated, upstream signal at a frequency of 5 MHz to 40 MHz and passes the signal to the cable MAC to remove the framing and encryption formats.

Spectrum manager—The spectrum manager continuously monitors the noise in unused upstream channels. If the signal-to-noise ratio reaches an unacceptable level on a particular channel, the spectrum manager will automatically assign a new upstream channel to the cable modem using that channel. This feature is referred to as frequency agility.

You must install at least one Cisco MC11 cable modem card in the Cisco uBR7246 chassis to establish communication between the Cisco uBR7246 and the HFC network.

Figure 38 shows the network topology for the modem card and illustrates network connections using the Cisco uBR7246.

Configuring Cisco uBR7246 Universal Broadband Router Features VC-133

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Cisco Systems uBR7246 manual

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.