CableLabs is planning to consolidate certification testing for three projects. The consolidation will expand CableLabs cable modem test program to include devices that seek compliance with specifications for PacketCable and CableHome.

This step will enable a test program in 2003 capable of evaluating a wide array of broadband products, including newly emerging products for cable Voice-over-Internet-Protocol (VoIP) and for cable in-home networking, while still continuing the Docsis (data over cable service interface specification) program for new and existing cable modem and cable modem termination system (CMTS) equipment, a company release says.

The new test plan is accompanied by lower charges for certification testing of most devices. In some cases, such as certification of integrated devices, fees will fall by as much as 60 per cent compared with existing certification charges. In the case of cable modems, the fee for certification will decline by about 25 per cent. The cost of qualifying a CMTS will remain unchanged, the release says.

CableLabs has conducted a certification and qualification program since March 1998 for cable modems and respective headend equipment under the Docsis program.

The technical test capability, program management, and the logistics that have enabled Docsis certification to succeed will now be put to work on devices for PacketCable, a CableLabs-led initiative aimed at helping cable systems to deliver advanced, real-time IP-based services, such as voice and multimedia, and CableHome, which address interoperable home networking efforts.

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