Fiber-to-the-home: US policy issues

The future of fiber-to-the-home is examined, and doubts are expressed about forecasts of rapidly growing demand. The advantages of optical fiber systems are described. Worldwide implementation of fiber systems under present policies are discussed. The failure of videotex in the US is considered, focusing on the potential role of fiber in making it a success in the future, and the US experience is contrast with the success of videotex in France and facsimile in Japan. The problem of obsolescence in low-profit sectors is addressed. Three US policy alternatives and how they could affect the expansion and use of fiber-optic technology are discussed.<>