Abstract

Broadband technology is emerging as a very attractive alternative for telecommunications networks. Advances in fiber optics, multiplexing, and switching technology will enable the cost-effective realization of a network architecture with an integrated access structure and flexible bandwidth allocation. The task of introducing fiber-optic technology into the distribution portion of operating telephone company networks has begun. This talk highlights both the market pull and technology push behind broadband, describes a broadband target architecture projected to be available in the mid- 1990 time frame, and provides a focused view of how current distribution networks will evolve to incorporate broadband capabilities.

© 1989 Optical Society of America