CHT set to expand optical communications network

Chunghwa Telecom (CHT) will be expanding their optical communications network this year to the tune of NT$3.3 billion (US$104 million). The company aims to increase its number of subscribers to these networks by 400,000 this year.

To complete the expansion, CHT will be purchasing 683,000 units of VDSL2 equipment and 55,000 units of EPON (Ethernet passive optical network) equipment.

The EPON equipment will be purchased from Japan-based suppliers, whilst around 60% of the VDSL2 equipment that CHT needs will be purchased from Taiwan-based manufacturers. The company will be holding an open bidding session in the second quarter to finalise the contracts for this order.

Taiwan-based network equipment manufacturers who are likely to be bidding include Zyxel Communicatoins, D-Link, Asustek Computer and Tecom.