DNA Finland Broadens Fibre-Grade Access For Lower-Density MDUs Using Harmonic

Harmonic said DNA Finland, the country's second-largest mobile and fixed broadband operator, is extending multi-gigabit services to lower-density multi-dwelling units (MDUs) using Harmonic's SeaStar optical node.

The approach brings fibre-grade connectivity to brownfield buildings that have been difficult to serve due to permitting hurdles and costly rewiring.

By deploying the compact, scalable SeaStar node, DNA Finland can economically target smaller MDUs, offering competitive fibre-grade broadband and expanding its potential customer base beyond current subscribers.

"Previously, deploying a dedicated node for every MDU with only a handful of subscribers was cost-prohibitive, making lower-density MDU opportunities economically unviable for us," said Markus Lehtiniemi, access networks design team lead at DNA Finland. "Harmonic's game changing SeaStar node gives us a cost-effective solution to extend high-speed broadband services into the lower-density MDU market we previously could not economically serve. This strengthens our competitive position, establishes a clear market advantage and accelerates business growth."

Harmonic said SeaStar enables a centralised, fibre-forward architecture that leverages existing in-building coaxial wiring. A single SeaStar node can feed up to 16 low-cost optical mini nodes at MDUs via point-to-point fibre, which then connect to the property’s coax, reducing infrastructure needs and operational costs while widening access to reliable, high-speed services.

The SeaStar node also integrates with Harmonic’s Central AI-powered network intelligence and operations service, providing real-time analytics and visibility to support proactive resolution of network impairments and consistent service availability.

"DNA Finland's deployment of our SeaStar optical node sets a blueprint for operators looking to overcome the economics of traditional network expansion, enabling them to extend high-quality broadband into MDUs that were previously cost-prohibitive," said Stefan Meier, vice president of broadband sales, Europe at Harmonic. "By combining a compact footprint with scalable performance and operational efficiency, SeaStar allows service providers to unlock new revenue opportunities, improve deployment flexibility and accelerate time to market of new services while maintaining a superior subscriber experience."

Harmonic added that its cOS platform underpins next‑generation broadand for nearly 46 million CPE devices worldwide across North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia. The company will showcase SeaStar at ANGA COM from 19–21 May in Cologne, Germany (hall 8, stand C35).

harmonicinc.com