ITU-T approves G.fast standard for up 2 Gbps

ITU standards experts have doubled the access speeds achievable with the G.fast broadband standard. G.fast is now capable of enabling data rates up to 2 Gbps over traditional phone lines, according to the latest standards approved by ITU-T Study Group 15, responsible for ‘Networks, Technologies and Infrastructures for Transport, Access and Home’. 

It also completed ITU standards detailing commonalities in software-defined networking (SDN) and automatically switched optical networks (ASON); tools to meet the expected synchronization demands of 5G systems; and the characteristics of state-of-the-art optical fibre. These standards have achieved first-stage approval and are expected to see final approval before the close of 2016. 

The third amendment of ITU-T G.9701 doubles the aggregate net data rate achievable with G.fast, increasing its capacity to 2Gbps using spectrum up to 212 MHz. The update to the standard maintains spectral compatibility with VDSL2. The amendment also extends G.fast’s application to coaxial cable, enabling the coexistence of G.fast and satellite signals in coaxial cable infrastructure. 

The amendment also specifies a mechanism for dynamic time assessment, functionality that enables upstream or downstream transmission to exploit G.fast’s full aggregate net data rate. This functionality will improve users’ broadband experience by increasing upload or download speeds in line with the demands of the applications in use.