G.FAST technology allows existing copper connections to reach speeds comparable to optical connections, with the potential to facilitate Gigabit per second broadband speeds to domestic and commercial customers without causing the major upgrade disruption associated with Fibre-to-the-Premises technology. By maximising the potential capacity of existing copper wire infrastructure, successful deployment of G.FAST technology could accelerate the rollout of ultrafast broadband in the UK.
The G.FAST trial, located close to the BT Adastral Park R&D centre in Ipswich, UK, has seen multi-port G.FAST equipment installed in underground distribution points. G.FAST permits the last leg of an ultrafast network connection to be carried out with copper wire where previously only optical cable was capable of reaching adequate speeds.
Dr Tim Whitley, Managing Director, Research and Innovation remarked: "The G.FAST trial has the potential to demonstrate how ultrafast bandwidth access may be more efficiently delivered to consumers and businesses. We will be observing the results of the trial with interest to see whether G.FAST technology could play a role in ensuring BT has the best network in the short, medium and long term.
Mr. Gao Ji, Huawei Chief Strategy and Marketing Officer Western Europe, said: "Copper wires remain an important resource to telecom carriers and are assets that have yet to be fully exploited. By utilising new copper wire technologies, such as Vectoring and G.FAST, carriers can make more efficient use of their resources and quickly implement bandwidth strategies, helping to achieve commercial success. Huawei will continue to invest in copper wire technology and plans to lead further innovations in this area."