First vendors achieve certification by blending G.hn Access with XGS-PON extension

A new fiber extension certification program is set to enhance the deployment of high-performance networks for broadband service providers (BSPs), thanks to a collaboration between two leading standards development organizations.

Positron Access Solutions and ReadyLinks have become the first certified system vendors to pass the Broadband Forum and HomeGrid Forum’s GHNA (G.hn Access) Certification Program. This initiative combines performance testing from the Broadband Forum with compliance and interoperability testing from the HomeGrid Forum, aimed at optimizing access equipment.

The certification program is designed to expedite the delivery of high bandwidth content within homes while aiding BSPs in saving time and resources. It enables manufacturers to ensure that their infrastructure abides by rigorous performance and interoperability standards, allowing building owners to upgrade existing networks using wired technologies such as coaxial cabling and telephone wiring.

“The G.hn Access Certification Program points to a robust and growing product market using G.hn technology as a broadband access backbone,” said Tom Barnett, Director of Strategic Innovation at LUMEN and Vice President of the HomeGrid Forum. “Validating the interoperability of G.hn devices in a multi-vendor deployment is a huge milestone for all broadband players involved.”

Paul Arola, TELUS Senior Design Specialist and HomeGrid Forum Board Director, emphasized the cost-saving and time-saving benefits inherent in this certification program, stating, “Service providers and building owners can now accelerate their network upgrades with the certified equipment, extending multi-gigabit speeds over existing wiring with G.hn technology.”

This certification follows the inaugural G.hn Access Pre-Certification Plugfest, which took place in late 2022, where system vendors collaborated to pre-test and address service delivery challenges. The successful certification now marks a significant achievement for both Positron Access and ReadyLinks.

The certified devices include Positron G1001-C and ReadyLinks IPC-2TCP-RPF, both designed to facilitate high-speed internet access and compatibility with existing network infrastructure.

The GHNA Certification comprises two parts; compliance and interoperability testing, along with performance testing specified by the Broadband Forum. This comprehensive approach ensures that G.hn Access deployments can operate over various media, supporting both Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint topologies.

“Positron Access is proud to be one of the first certified vendors. This is the perfect xPON extension technology for operators delivering Gigabit Ethernet services in legacy properties,” said Pierre Trudeau, President and CTO of Positron Access Solutions. “Achieving verified interoperability and performance is a great step forward.”

ReadyLinks VP of Technology Justin Synstelien renewed his commitment to quality, stating, “With the completion of interoperability and performance testing, operators can rest easy knowing they are delivering the highest quality and highest bandwidth Ethernet services.”

This collaborative certification effort signifies a milestone in advancing high-performance broadband access technologies, enabling faster and more reliable internet service deployments for customers globally.