Conterra Networks, a Charlotte-based broadband provider operating across multiple U.S. states, has selected FONEX and the Open PON solution powered by Ciena’s pluggable microOLTs to upgrade its network to XGS-PON in a way that is both flexible and cost-effective.
Building on its already robust GPON foundation, Conterra sought a path to XGS-PON that would allow it to scale at its own pace and minimize upfront capital expenditures. With Open PON, Conterra can upgrade in smaller, manageable increments rather than committing to a full chassis investment.
The transition also preserves existing infrastructure: Conterra is building on its installed base of Ethernet switches, eliminating the need for new line cards or system overhauls. For business services, the deployment includes pluggable customer-premises optical terminals (ONTs) that offer enhanced performance, while maintaining the openness needed to support a wide variety of ONTs in a vendor-agnostic format.
This architecture provides Conterra with several key advantages:
“Open PON allows us the flexibility to enhance our existing carrier-grade access network quickly while minimizing large upfront investments. The partnership with FONEX and Ciena provides a solution that supports our growth and keeps us in control of the pace and cost of XGS-PON transitions,” said Mike Tompkins, Executive Vice President & Chief Operations Officer at Conterra.
“Ciena’s uOLT provides a unique solution for operators like Conterra who are looking to cost-effectively deploy XGS-PON services,” said Joe Marsella, Vice President, Product Line Management, Ciena. “The ability to activate services with more granularity allows operators to reduce power and control costs in lower-density deployments. Additionally, Ciena’s PON network management software provides highly efficient management of uOLTs within a single virtual chassis group. This ensures operators can reliably scale their networks while maintaining optimal performance and control.”
The decision underscores the value of disaggregated, open networking for broadband operators. With over 30 years of experience as a trusted integrator, FONEX provided technical guidance, solution design, and ongoing support to ensure a seamless rollout.
About Conterra
Conterra Networks is a national leader in the design, deployment, and operation of fiber-optic network-based services, providing advanced high-capacity communications networks to education, healthcare, government, carrier, and enterprise customers across the United States. With over 14,000 route miles of fiber and more than 8,000 on-net locations, Conterra offers a robust, flexible, and secure fiber network backbone optimized for low-latency and high-bandwidth applications. Conterra is owned by affiliates of APG and Fiera Infrastructure. For more information, please visit conterra.com
About FONEX
Established in 1989, FONEX is a leading supplier of carrier-class telecommunications equipment for North American and European data service providers.
We partner with our clients to understand their challenges and tackle increasing broadband demand.
Leveraging over three decades of expertise, we deliver innovative solutions that optimize infrastructure, reduce costs, and enhance service delivery. For more information visit https://www.fonex.com
About Ciena
Ciena is the global leader in high-speed connectivity. We build the world’s most adaptive networks to support exponential growth in bandwidth demand. By harnessing the power of our networking systems, components, automation software, and services, Ciena revolutionizes data transmission and network management. With unparalleled expertise and innovation, we empower our customers, partners, and communities to thrive in the AI era. For updates on Ciena, follow us on LinkedIn and X, or visit the Ciena Insights webpage and Ciena website.
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