iesy Repository GmbH - Irish Stock Exchange

ish monitors performance to ensure customers consistently receive a high standard of service. All processes are
streamlined and monitored through key performance indicators, which support the automated workflow throughout the
business. In addition, the operations development department is responsible for optimizing processes, designing new
procedures, and change and project management.
Network Operations—ish’s Network and Technical Infrastructure
In total, ish’s network extends over 100,000 kilometers, passing approximately 6.5 million homes in the North Rhine-
Westphalia region. Average annual network availability is high at approximately 99.9%. ish’s original infrastructure, which
is a single direction broadcast network, was based on the topology developed by DTAG. This non-upgraded network
currently serves both 80% of homes passed and 80% of subscribers and receives analog and digital signals from satellites that
are then distributed over the 50-450MHz band. This 450MHz network delivers between 33 and 36 analog television channels
(depending on the region served), up to 35 analog radio channels and 17 digital channels (representing the capability for 170
programs).
The following chart shows the basic structure of ish’s network.
The remaining 20% of the homes passed and 20% of the subscribers are served by an upgraded network which has full
bi-directional capability, enabling the provision of advanced two-way cable services, and distributes digital signals over
either a 630MHz or 862MHz band. This upgraded network has been designed as a high speed, hybrid fiber-coaxial (HFC)
based system, capable of providing a range of digital bi-directional services and was designed to support up to 25% high
speed Internet penetration. The upgraded network comprises a central signal feed coming from the NOC, connecting to a
series of interconnected primary and secondary fiber optic rings. A key feature of the fiber ring architecture is the alternate
routes to the hubs, thereby protecting against faults in a certain part of the backbone network. Furthermore, these faults can
be centrally diagnosed and often fixed remotely.
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