Cisco DNCS System Release 2.2 3.2 Design Guide
4000358 Rev B
Introducing DOCSIS
1-1
Chapter 1
Introducing DOCSIS
Overview
Introduction
DOCSIS (Data-Over-Cable Service Interface Specifications) is a standard interface for
cable modems that handle incoming and outgoing data signals between a cable
service provider and a customer data terminal such as a personal computer (PC).
Cisco includes DOCSIS functionality in the Explorer
Note: This document refers to the Explorer 4200 Home Gateway as a DOCSIS-
capable DHCT.
4200 Home Gateway. The Home
Gateway has an integrated cable modem that is compliant with DOCSIS 1.0
specifications. The cable modem provides a high-speed interactive communication
path for applications running on external Customer Premise Equipment (CPE), such
as PCs connected to the ports of the Home Gateway, as well as the DHCT CPE. The
Home Gateway can use either a DOCSIS or DAVIC channel depending upon its
communication mode.
This chapter introduces the communication modes that enable the DHCT to operate
in a DOCSIS environment and provides a simplified network diagram of the
communication modes. This chapter also describes the interfaces and
communication paths that are required to support DOCSIS in a DBDS environment.
A simplified diagram of the DBDS architecture that supports DOCSIS is also
provided.
Required Hardware and Software
To introduce DOCSIS into the DBDS, cable service providers must install new
hardware and software in their network. The following hardware and software are
required to support DOCSIS:
•
•
Cable Modem Termination System for DOCSIS 1.0 or higher
•
Explorer 4200 Home Gateway
•
System Release 3.0 or higher
•
Cisco Resident Application (SARA) Client Release 1.41 or later (or similar)
•
PowerTV Home Gateway Edition 1.0
•
DHCP Server
•
Trivial File Transfer Protocol (TFTP) Server
•
Time Of Day (TOD) Server (optional)
•
Domain Name System (DNS) Server (optional)