Com Hem Labs is running a test to deliver broadband speeds of 1.2 Gbps to and from a property in Stockholm.
The use of symmetrical, meaning the same speed on both upstream and downstream, comes ahead of a full service on Com Hem’s FiberCoax network. It’s slated to launch commercially in 2019.
The test is part of an upgrade to DOCSIS 3.1 that can provide theoretical download speeds of up to 10 Gbps download and 1 Gbps upload.
Last year Com Hem replaced key electronics and optics in the most important nodes in its network – a process that is expected to continue over the next few months.
“Once we have taken the step to DOCSIS 3.1, we will have increased capacity and speed for our customers at the same time as quality in the network improves. It’s like adding extra lanes to a highway along with a raised speed limit and improved safety. Com Hem is the first in the world to test symmetric 1.2 Gbps over cable, and many of the larger international cable operators are contacting us to learn more about how we’re working on the introduction of DOCSIS 3.1,” says Thomas Helbo, CTO of Com Hem.
An initial step is the launch of services of 1,200/100 Mbps late in 2018, with the option to roll out symmetrical 1.2 Gbps if there is sufficient customer demand.
