Video communications and services in the copper loop

There are several technologies available for providing access using the embedded copper loop plant. However, none of these technologies can provide a high-bit-rate digital transport capability (1.544 Mb/s) over the existing loop plant. The authors describe continuing advances in both VLSI implementation and signal processing algorithms that are making it possible to provide the high-bit-rate digital subscriber line (HDSL) for a repeaterless T1 capability within carrier serving areas (CSAs); asymmetric digital subscriber lines (ADSL) for a 1.5-Mb/s transport capability over the nonloaded copper loop plant; and the next-generation ADSL-II for a 3 to 4 Mb/s transmission rate over CSA ranges. It is argued that, coupled with advances in video compression techniques and recent standards activities in CCITT, these bit rates will allow local exchange carriers (LECs) to provide video communication and services using highly compressed digital video by allowing the LECs to use their existing embedded loop plant to enter the video market and establish a base of customers.<>