Intriguing RFP Activity at AT&T

Implications: The stakes will be high in suppliers vying for the business of AT&T. 2.  The technologies span the network – from last mile access to high-capacity long haul at the largest RBOC.   3. Although Verizon has completed its major RFPs for now, there appears to be at least a couple out there related to FiOS.

Analysis:  It is interesting to look at the competitive positions of the suppliers at the RBOCs in light of recent and ongoing RFPs.  It appears that Alcatel-Lucent, Ciena, and Tellabs have made the final cut on a ROADM RFP at AT&T.  Regarding ROADMs in general, Fujitsu still is apparently the dominant force at the RBOC.   

For its Ethernet box RFP from AT&T, which ties into fiber optics as well, Ciena with its CN 4200 and Adtran’s product are clearing in the running.  Others undoubtedly have officially filed as well.  

The 40G RFP at AT&T demonstrates the state of the technology at the moment.  It is wide open to the world.   On a second GPON vendor RFP, Alcatel-Lucent appears to be the clear favorite at  AT&T.  The carrier has already selected Entrisphere as its primary vendor for this technology.   Although Qwest has evidently chosen Tellabs for its ROADM, it is interesting to note that the service provider is apparently testing Ciena’s solution.   As the source article points out, Verizon has chosen both Tellabs and Fujitsu for ROADM types of networking. Verizon evidently has several RFPs related to the video side (not directly involving optical) of FiOS.