October 2, 2024 /SemiMedia/ — Broadcom Inc., Charter Communications, and Comcast recently announced a joint development of Unified DOCSIS chipsets for network nodes, smart amps, and cable modems, enabling both FDX and ESD versions of the DOCSIS 4.0 specification, and setting the stage to deliver upwards of 25 Gbps speeds over existing networks. This specification brings together all the benefits of both DOCSIS ESD and DOCSIS FDX and includes support for both mid-split and high-split configurations.

Designed for compliance with the existing DOCSIS 4.0 standard and creating a foundation for the next generation, the technology solutions will enable all operators through a single and open standard, delivering on the following advantages:

  • Economies of scale for the industry
  • Robust vendor ecosystem
  • Streamlined CableLabs certification and operator qualification

“By pushing the benefits of AI and ML to the edge of our network, we are maximizing network performance, improving the internet experience, and introducing new and exciting services to support our customers' incredible appetite for more, higher quality data,” said Charlie Herrin, President, Technology, Product, Experience, Comcast. “Supporting a single technology that can be used by all operators efficiently, over their existing networks, allows the industry to leverage its collective investment, and to increase the benefits of AI at the edge.”

This collaboration also will dramatically enhance DOCSIS networks with advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, utilizing Broadcom’s embedded Neural Processing Unit (NPU) in the network nodes, smart amps, and modems. Operators will be able to increase operational efficiency and improve network security and reliability through specific advancements, including:

  • Channel anomaly detection and network self-healing
  • Predictive network power management and reduction
  • Real-time network pattern detection, classification, and optimization
  • Advanced cybersecurity, intrusion detection, and phishing protection to fight AI-based attacks
  • Monitoring and optimizing home IoT and WiFi device performance

“Charter, Comcast, and Broadcom are collaboratively driving industry innovation through the Unified DOCSIS 4.0 specification,” said Rich DiGeronimo, President of Product and Technology, Charter Communications, which operates the Spectrum brand. “By integrating Broadcom's cutting-edge technology into our network infrastructure and cable modems, our network will leverage artificial intelligence to enhance power, reliability, and cost-effectiveness, ultimately delivering superior services to our customers.”