P306 Access Networks Evolution and Preparations for Implementation

Rationale
Optical fibre is already a cost-affective alternative to traditional copper deployment in green field situation. Growth and rehabilitation needs could probably also be solved by optical fibre in areas with an already established telecommunication infrastructure. Such areas may need other types of strategies and equipment types than for the green field situation.

In the medium term other technologies could be used also. There is a need to investigate the application of a permanent use of radio access in urban/sub-urban and rural areas. Existing copper networks are able to support significantly higher bit rates, therefore a common methodology to evaluate the actual capacity for the copper network is an essential and would enable decisions on the application of novel signal processing techniques.

For fibre deployment, common strategies and equipment specifications (Technical Advisory, TA) are needed among the PNOs in order to increase production levels and promote competition among suppliers.

Objectives
The main objectives of this project are to:

• establish an understanding of PNOs common requirements (Technical Advisory) for fibre in the loop (FITL) in areas with an already existing telecommunication infrastructure,
• establish a set requirements on systems for permanent radio access in urban/suburban and rural areas,
• specify operation and maintenance requirements and procedures for access networks,
• assess the technical and economical feasibility of Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) systems,
• assess technical feasibility of (long term) VHDSL/VHADSL systems

Participants AF BT DT HT IT NL NT OG FT RT ST TE TF PT DK MP

Duration - Project start: Aug 93 - Project completion: Mar 96

Results for Full Publication