How to make the best edge QAM device in the market
A multitude of factors need to be considered when creating the absolute best edge QAM device in the market: redundancy features, reliability, flexibility, scalability and modularity, and the ability to adapt to the future Distributed Access Architecture (DAA) demands. However, when it comes to edge QAM technology, talk is cheap. Anyone can provide spec sheets, performance charts, and feature lists – but to deliver on these promises, it takes decades of experience and a deep understanding of the underlying technology combined with 24/7 access to the best technical engineers for assistance and support.
Big technological transitions are challenging and choosing the correct cable network solution can have implications over a decade down the line. In many cases the initial hardware investment costs are only a fraction of the life cycle costs, so upgrade decisions should be taken seriously with long term cost savings in mind.
Many cable operators have had their broadcast television headends running for over a decade, with existing edge QAM platforms now reaching end-of-life. Operators are now looking for upgrade paths that are ready for an eventual DAA rollout, and at the same time capable of delivering uninterrupted legacy QAM video services. Especially with large networks, reducing maintenance and operational costs is also a key deciding factor, combined with environmental and sustainability considerations. The sustainability means meeting our own needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Thus, in our thinking, the sustainability requires future proof technical features as well.
Expertise as an extension of the hardware
The devices themselves are only one element of the product promise. Combining proven reliability and features, serviceability, and immediate access to support ensures that interruptions are kept to the absolute minimum, and issues are immediately solved should any arise. We understand that even short service interruptions are a serious matter, so instead of having a call centre or a support-ticket-based customer service, we provide direct support with 24/7 end-user access. Through this, our customers are put in contact directly with our best technical engineers, who will work together to find a solution to any problem. Our engineers know the hardware down to the metal, and the software down to the code, and can provide deep knowledge-based problem solving to any situation. In addition, frequent software updates and improvements ensure that our edge QAM products improve throughout their life-cycle.
Our edge QAMs are designed from the ground up to be ultra-dense, which enables operators to freely scale up their video services when needed. The ultra-dense approach is not compromising redundancy features as the biggest cable MSOs don’t compromise their carrier-class broadcast services. The edge QAMs are also optimized for minimum input for maximum output, meaning that they will only use the exact amount of power needed at any given time. This can considerably reduce power consumption and can decrease heat output in already jam-packed server rooms. Modern edge QAM technology makes it possible to consolidate several devices into one unit, which enables operators to manage all their TV channels in one rack unit. Our edge QAMs can also be tuned remotely, thus avoiding time-consuming on-site visits and unnecessary truck rolls.
Designed and assembled in-house for reliable delivery
Many edge QAM manufacturers source their hardware from 3rd party suppliers that are susceptible to supply chain interruptions and other external risk factors. What separates us from many of our competitors, is our ability to design, manufacture, and assemble in-house, with which we can provide an unmatched level of quality at a high level of reliability when it comes to delivery and deployment. We also provide comprehensive training prior to rollout to ensure that possible technical, operating, maintenance, and troubleshooting aspects are covered well in advance of field deployments. This aspect gives our edge QAM a clear advantage that extends beyond the physical hardware. And of course, with our technology comes a vast breadth of experience and knowledge – that is always at the ready.
But don’t rely only on our word alone, listen your own technicians. We will gladly provide test hardware and software for your own experts to test and try the best edge QAM technology in the market. It goes without saying, send the product back if you are not more than satisfied.
Read more about why Sweden’s second-largest Cable TV service provider Telenor upgraded to the latest edge QAM technology.
Julius Tikkanen
Julius Tikkanen
I’m currently heading Video Service Platforms business at Teleste. I joined the company in 2005 and have since had an outstanding position to follow how video processing solutions and consumer behavior have developed into where those are today. See my LinkedIn for more information.
