Narad becomes PhyFlex

Narad Networks changed its name to PhyFlex Networks this week as it introduced a new line of Ethernet switches for fiber-based access networks.

The vendor’s new “FTTxSwitch” was designed to allow a migration from coaxial cable to fiber. It can be configured for fiber-to-the-premises, fiber-to-the-node and fiber-to-the-curb networks, allowing a mix of fiber, coax and Ethernet cable in the same box. It includes six gigabit Ethernet ports and four 100 Mb/s coax ports.

The new company name “emphasizes the inherent flexibility” of the new product line, the vendor said in a press release this week.

In addition to residential broadband, the FTTxSwitch will help cable operators tackle the T-1 and cell tower backhaul markets, PhyFlex said. Three of the top cable operators in the U.S., including Cablevision Systems and Mediacom Communications, are trialing the gear.

The “main market” for the new gear in residential applications is Asia, where cable operators see 100-Mb/s broadband speeds as a way to compete with telcos deploying VDSL, PhyFlex said.

For several years, Narad has sold broadband access gear to cable operators that delivers high-speed connections over hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) networks. Earlier this year the vendor teamed with Axerra Networks to offer wireless backhaul over HFC. And last year, Narad was one of a growing number of cable industry players to join the Metro Ethernet Forum.