RCN Business Services is playing into the idea that the existing HFC passing the main streets to get into residential neighborhoods can serve a dual purpose for SMBs along that path. While RCN has trailed its larger MSO counterparts (Cablevision, Cox, Comcast and Time Warner) that have been aggressively targeting Verizon, AT&T and Qwest's fiber-based access service markets with cable wideband services, the competitive provider is launching its own DOCSIS 3.0 to fit the SMB's needs.
Initially, RCN will bring the wideband service to Manhattan and parts of Boston where it has a strong mix of fiber presence in thousands of buildings and an established HFC footprint. In addition, RCN will bring the DOCSIS 3.0 service to parts of its Eastern Pennsylvania market. RCN could use these initial deployments to perhaps prove out its DOCSIS 3.0 capabilities before it brings those capabilities into other high profile markets such as Chicago and Philadelphia.
Leveraging Cisco's DOCSIS 3.0 downstream channel bonding solution that includes its uBR10012 CMTS and DPC3000 Channel Bonded Cable Modems, RCN will offer SMB customers three speed tiers: a 20 Mbps downstream/5 Mbps upstream option; a 40 Mbps downstream/5 Mbps upstream option; and a 60 Mbps downstream/10 Mbps upstream option. RCN will price these speed options between $59.99 to $199.99 with a one to two year service contract.
For more:
- see the release here
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