SeaLStar Node Boosts MDU Broadband with Harmonic Tech
▼ Summary
– Harmonic launched the SeaStar™ Optical Node to provide cost-effective, multigigabit broadband connectivity for lower-density MDUs using existing coax cabling.
– The SeaStar node eliminates the need for rewiring, reduces capital expenses, and supports up to 16 MDUs from a single node, powered by Harmonic’s cOS™ platform.
– The compact, low-power node delivers speeds exceeding 8 Gbps downstream and 1.5 Gbps upstream, leveraging existing infrastructure and supporting next-gen fiber technologies.
– Harmonic’s solution includes a common management system via the cOS platform, streamlining operations for PON and DOCSIS services to reduce OPEX.
– The SeaStar node will be showcased at Fiber Connect 2025 and ANGA COM, with industry support from partners like Netceed Poland.
The new SeaStar™ Optical Node from Harmonic is revolutionizing broadband connectivity for multi-dwelling units (MDUs), offering a cost-effective solution to deliver fiber-grade speeds without extensive infrastructure overhauls. This innovative technology addresses a critical challenge in the industry by enabling operators to upgrade existing networks efficiently while minimizing disruptions for residents.
Designed specifically for brownfield MDUs, the SeaStar node converts legacy coaxial cabling into a high-performance broadband pathway. By eliminating the need for expensive rewiring, it allows service providers to deploy multigigabit speeds quickly and affordably. The system supports downstream speeds exceeding 8 Gbps and upstream speeds of 1.5 Gbps, making it ideal for modern bandwidth demands.
A key advantage of the SeaStar node is its ability to serve up to 16 MDUs from a single unit, significantly reducing capital expenditures. Powered by Harmonic’s cOS™ virtualized broadband platform, the solution integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure while future-proofing networks for emerging technologies. Operators can also incorporate 10G PON capabilities as needed, ensuring scalability without additional complexity.
Traditional RFoG challenges, such as optical beat interference (OBI) and latency issues, are effectively mitigated by the SeaStar node’s advanced design. Its centralized deployment model connects to low-cost mini nodes within MDUs via point-to-point fiber, maintaining reliability over distances up to 5 km.
Harmonic’s unified cOS management system further enhances operational efficiency by consolidating control of PON, DOCSIS, and SeaStar services into a single interface. This streamlined approach reduces operational costs while improving service delivery.
Industry leaders like Netceed Poland have praised the SeaStar node for its flexibility and cost-effectiveness. “This solution meets a pressing need in the MDU market, enabling operators to expand their footprint without prohibitive investments,” said Arek Zawada, managing director of Netceed Poland.
Harmonic will showcase the SeaStar node at Fiber Connect 2025 in Nashville and ANGA COM in Cologne, highlighting its potential to transform MDU broadband deployments. With over 33 million CPE devices already powered by Harmonic’s cOS platform globally, the company continues to lead the evolution of next-generation connectivity.
For operators seeking to modernize MDU networks without disruptive overhauls, the SeaStar node represents a game-changing advancement in broadband technology. Its combination of performance, scalability, and cost efficiency positions it as a critical tool for expanding high-speed internet access in underserved residential environments.
(Source: Streaming Media)
