Loop Extenders

Loop extenders have various options:

• The number of ports
• The amplification level 
• Input power source
• DSL type supported 

Number of Ports

Many loop extenders have the option to deploy 1, 2, 4, 8 or 24 ports.

Amplification Level

The lowest amplification level is in the subscriber line power versions (like AER800-1PL). These units are limited to using the switch power available without drawing dial tone, so there is a physical limit to the amplification possible.  A slightly higher amplification is available with the express power series.  Because these devices have access to a higher voltage level on an express power pair, there is more power available to do ADSL amplification.  You can get about 1 Mbps improved performance with express power.   The ipTV booster uses a higher voltage 155vDC express power and as a result can improve the bandwidth even more.  The CAF booster (AER800-1PC) is unique in that it also offers upstream amplification to help you reach that 1 Mbps goal from the FCC Connect America Fund.

Input Power Source

Most loop extenders require an extra power pair to power up to 8 subscriber lines.  The express power pair requires a special central office or customer premise power supply to provide 116vDC or 155vDC.  However, the AER800-1PL can run off the 48vDC available on the subscriber line and needs no additional pairs or power supplies.

DSL Type

Annex A is the most widely deployed DSL Type in the USA and is supported by AER800-1P, AER800-1PL, AER800-1PC and AER800-1PB.

Annex M is available in the AER800-1PM series for uses where the 1Mbps UPSTREAM limit of Annex A is not sufficient.

VDSL is available in another section on this website.