The Q-Stack® 2 system effectively quadruples return path bandwidth, enabling hybrid fiber coaxial networks to cost-effectively deploy high speed Internet, telephony and enriched two-way broadband services without replacing existing network infrastructure. This patented system is a "plug n' play" solution and is easily adaptable to new and existing optical nodes.
The FSU 203 Frequency Stacking Up Converter module is a frequency stacking subsystem that simultaneously accepts the four 5-42 MHz upstream signals from the inputs of distribution or feeder ports of a fiber node and then frequency translates them into four separate "stacked" bands of frequencies (5-203 MHz). The four (4) 5-42 MHz return paths are filtered and (3) three of the returns are block up converted, to band 'B' (62-99MHz), band 'C' (114-151 MHz) and band 'D' (166-203 MHZ). The four bands are then combined using a proprietary Quintech multiplexing technology. The full, stacked 5-203 MHz combined signals are then transported to the headend via a single dedicated return fiber.
The FSD 203 Frequency De-stacking Down Converter module, located in the headend, down converts the four bands back to 5-42 MHz. The four (4) recovered 5-42 MHz returns are then routed to their respective headend equipment destination.
This reliable conversion is made possible by a single, stable 52 MHz pilot signal generated by the RLO 052 Redundant Local Oscillator, which is combined with the downstream signal to the node. Within the node, it is directed to the stacker. Likewise, at the headend, it is distributed to the de-stacker. The 52 MHz pilot, and derived harmonics, are used as the local oscillators for the various mixers in the frequency stacker. This reference oscillator configuration provides the ultimate in stability and phase noise performance with no phase lock loops.
The Q-Stack® 2 solution is the only cost-effective "plug 'n play" solution for return path bandwidth expansion on the market.
Features & Benefits
Q-Stack® 2 Quadruples (4x) return path bandwidth on a single return laser.
Plug and Play installation: The FSU 203 Frequency Stacker module is easily retrofitted into any commercially available optical node (new or legacy unit).
High frequency stability is achieved through use of a single, highly stable 52 MHz reference signal from the headend via a Redundant Local Oscillator (RLO 052) which is distributed downstream to all nodes in the network.
Q-Stack® 2 is capable of providing 7 to 8 dB of improvement in noise and distortion performance.
Reduced power consumption – just over 10 dB per stacker.
Lessened capital investment and operational costs associated with network power supplies and life-cycle costs of the network.
Permits identification and isolation of areas of reported interference due to ingress.
Tremendous cost savings : Q-Stack® 2 is a mere $3000 per link compared to $8000+ in addition to a new optical node for digital reverse, space segmentation and DWDM.
Q-Stack® 2 versus digital return technology is proven to perform comparably in all technical measurements.
Q-Stack® 2 outperformed digital return technology in key parameter measurements such as group delay.
FSU 203
Frequency Stacking Upconverter Module
The FSU 203 is a component of Quintech's Q-Stack® 2 Frequency Stacking System. The FSU 203 is designed to fit inside a node, where it simultaneously accepts four (5-42 MHz) upstream signals from the inputs of distribution or feeder ports in that node. Each of the four returns are filtered and three of them are up converted (i.e., translated) into a separate "stacked" frequency band within the range of 5-203 MHz. The four bands are then combined using proprietary Quintech multiplexing technology, resulting in fully stacked signals which can then be transported to the headend across a single dedicated return fiber.
The FSD 203 Frequency Stacking Down Converter module is a component of Quintech's Q-Stack® 2 Frequency Stacking System. It has been designed to fit inside a headend or hub site, where it simultaneously accepts the combined (i.e., stacked) (5-203 MHz) signals from the FSU 203 Up Converters in the HFC nodes. It then "un-translates" the signals back into four separate return path bands (5-42 MHz). Each of the un-stacked outputs can then be processed normally by the return path termination equipment.
The RLO 052 Redundant Local Oscillator is the main reference signal source for the Q-Stack® 2 Frequency Stacking System. It typically resides in a headend or hub site. The unit features two outputs that allow the reference signal to be independently transmitted downstream and upstream over the existing HFC network. All of the FSU 203 Up Converters in the HFC nodes and FSD 203 Down Converters associated with the same headend or hub site should use only one RLO 052. External status and control connections allow the unit to be easily integrated with existing status monitoring systems.
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