OptiConn FAQ's
Faster Broadband. More Value from the Wiring You Already Have.
Explore how OptiConn helps service providers and property owners extend high-speed connectivity through existing building infrastructure. From Fi-Speed MoCA Access to installation planning, find answers to common broadband upgrade questions below.
Broadband Basics
Can existing coaxial cable support gigabit internet?
Yes. With compatible broadband equipment, existing coax can carry gigabit and multi-gigabit data. OptiConn’s Fi-Speed solution brings high-speed connectivity to properties with usable coax already in place.
What is MoCA Access?
MoCA Access is a broadband technology that uses coaxial cable to distribute data from a central connection to multiple endpoints. It extends a provider’s network through existing properties, helping turn installed TV cabling into a broadband delivery path.
How is MoCA Access different from MoCA home networking?
MoCA home networking connects devices within a household. MoCA Access serves a different purpose: distributing a service provider’s broadband connection to multiple residences or units. Choose equipment designed for the intended network rather than treating home adapters and access products as interchangeable.
What is fiber extension, and how do FTTB and FTTep fit in?
Fiber extension uses existing wiring to carry connectivity beyond a fiber endpoint. Fiber to the Building (FTTB) brings fiber into a property; Fiber to the Extension Point (FTTep) brings it to a location where another medium continues the connection. Coax can complete that path to individual units.
Does using coax replace the need for an internet service provider?
An internet service provider supplies internet connection. OptiConn equipment helps distribute that connection through the property. The incoming service and the building’s internal network work together to determine the experience at each endpoint.
Fi-Speed Performance and Equipment
What is OptiConn Fi-Speed?
Fi-Speed is OptiConn’s MoCA Access solution for delivering broadband over existing coax at fiber speeds. A Micronode connects the incoming network to the coax infrastructure, while compatible Fi-Speed CNUs provide Ethernet connections at individual residences or units.
How fast can Fi-Speed deliver broadband over coax?
Fi-Speed supports up to 2.5 Gbps of throughput per coax output. Subscriber speeds depend on the selected CNU, service plan, uplink capacity, network configuration, and coax conditions.
Does every subscriber receive a dedicated 2.5 Gbps connection?
Yes, each subscriber can have up to 2.5 Gbps speeds. Data rates are dependent upon the coax infrastructure. Operators should size the network for subscriber numbers, service tiers, and expected simultaneous usage. Branch capacity and an individual subscriber’s service speed are different measures.
Can coax support symmetrical broadband services?
Coax can support services with equal upload and download speeds when the equipment and network are configured for that service tier. Symmetrical service is useful for video calls, cloud backups, and file sharing. The supported tier should be confirmed against the selected equipment and available capacity.
How far can Fi-Speed carry broadband over coax?
OptiConn lists a reach of approximately 275 meters to receive maximum speeds. Max speeds depends on cable condition, connections, splitters, and signal loss across the complete path.
How many endpoints can one Fi-Speed Micronode support?
A Fi-Speed Micronode supports four coax outputs and up to 124 connected CNUs (31 CNU’s per port). Actual deployment capacity depends on the chosen configuration and the service requirements of the property.
What is a Fi-Speed CNU?
A Fi-Speed CNU is the subscriber-side coax-to-Ethernet adapter. It connects to the Micronode through the coax network and supplies an Ethernet handoff for local networking equipment. OptiConn offers CNU options for 1 Gbps or 2.5 Gbps connectivity.
What connects to the Micronode’s uplink?
Up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet/PON uplink connectivity for its Fi-Speed Micronode. Select the model and interface that match the provider’s network and confirm compatibility during system design.
14. Can Fi-Speed support streaming, gaming, and video calls?
Fi-Speed provides a wired connection suitable for bandwidth-intensive services, including video streaming, gaming, and voice applications. End-to-end performance also depends on the internet service, local router or Wi-Fi network, and the devices being used.
Installation and Existing Infrastructure
Will we need to run new cable to every unit?
Properties with suitable coax may be able to reuse those runs. Installation planning should identify any damaged cable, unsuitable components, or gaps in coverage that require work before activation.
Can existing coax splitters be reused?
Some can, depending on their frequency range and signal-loss characteristics. A splitter that carries television successfully may still be unsuitable for the proposed data network. Assess the complete coax path and replace components where needed.
Can broadband and television share the same coax?
MoCA Access can coexist with television services through appropriate frequency planning. Compatibility depends on the services already present and the equipment selected. Filters or diplexers may be needed to separate frequency bands and protect service performance.
Can Fi-Speed coexist with an existing DOCSIS service?
Coexistence requires a review of the occupied spectrum and proposed Fi-Speed configuration. The DOCSIS version alone does not establish compatibility. Confirm the operating bands, filtering, and network layout before planning simultaneous service on shared coax.
Does the Micronode require a local electrical outlet?
Fi-Speed supports remote power from compatible CNUs over coax. Confirm the equipment combination and power budget during design to determine how the Micronode will be powered at the proposed location.
Can the Micronode be installed outdoors?
OptiConn describes the Fi-Speed Micronode as suitable for indoor or outdoor installation. Select the appropriate model and follow its installation requirements for mounting, grounding, environmental exposure, and cable protection.
What should be checked before a broadband upgrade?
Review the coax layout, cable condition, run lengths, splitters, amplifiers, existing services, power arrangements, and subscriber locations. Also define the incoming connection, desired service tiers, and expected demand. These details help establish a practical design and identify necessary upgrades.
How much disruption should residents or guests expect?
Minimal disruption to service. Reusing suitable wiring can reduce cable installation and related building work. The installation plan should still account for equipment placement, endpoint connections, testing, and any necessary access to occupied spaces. Schedule those activities around the property’s operations.
Technology Choices and Applications
How does MoCA Access compare with DOCSIS?
Both carry broadband over coax, but they use different standards and equipment. DOCSIS is widely deployed in cable operators’ hybrid fiber-coax networks; MoCA Access is designed for broadband access extensions. Compare the existing network, capacity requirements, spectrum, and deployment scope. Modern DOCSIS can also support symmetrical multi-gigabit services. However, DOCSIS provisioning can be much more complicated.
How do MoCA Access, G.hn, and G.fast differ?
MoCA Access uses coax for broadband distribution and can deliver up to 2.5 Gbps throughput. G.hn supports networking over several wiring types, including coax and telephone pairs, with equipment specific to each medium and is capped at 1Gbps throughput. G. fast uses telephone wire pairs and is limited in the bandwidth it delivers. The best fit depends on the installed wiring, distance, topology, equipment, and service goals.
Can a fixed wireless connection be distributed over coax?
A suitable Ethernet handoff from fixed wireless equipment can feed a compatible building distribution system. The wireless link supplies the incoming capacity; the coax network carries it to endpoints. Confirm interface compatibility and size of the system for the capacity available from the wireless service.
Can coax-based broadband help improve Wi-Fi?
A wired connection over coax can provide backhaul to a compatible router or access point. Wi-Fi coverage still depends on access-point placement, radio conditions, and client devices. Fi-Speed supplies the wired connection; the local wireless network determines coverage within the space.
Where is reusing existing wiring especially useful?
It is worth evaluating in apartment buildings, hotels, resorts, townhome communities, and other properties where suitable wiring already reaches the spaces needing service. It can be particularly useful when access to new cable routes is limited or building work would disrupt occupants.
How does reusing coax affect the cost of a broadband upgrade?
Reusing suitable coax can reduce spending on new cable runs and associated installation work. Compare the full project cost, including equipment, component replacements, labor, testing, and ongoing support. Savings vary by property and should be judged by their actual requirements.
What if the property has telephone wiring instead of coax?
We also offer G.hn products for telephone wiring. Evaluate the installed pairs and the intended service before choosing equipment. Different wiring types require different hardware and may support different performance levels.
How do we get started with OptiConn?
Share your property type, existing wiring, number of units, incoming broadband connection, and performance goals. We can help you choose products and plan a network suited to the application.
Upgrade Your Connection
Connect with us to explore Fi-Speed and other broadband extension options for your property or network.