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Telecom Technology
- A Call to Action: A National Technology Roadmap for Telecommunications
Smith, David
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author issues a call to action for the telecommunications industry to begin the development of national roadmaps to help guide it into the next millennium.
- Access Strategies for Communication Service Providers
Kumar, Balaji
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Addresses an important component of the network -- access to the customer -- which is currently the bottleneck in providing a wide range of services in a cost-effective way. A broadband access architecture that is capable of providing both broadband and narrowband services is outlined for each of the various service providers.
- Benchmarking Telecommunications in Developing Countries: A Poland Case Study
Kroder, Stanley L. , Ph.D.
Wilkinson, Gary F. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors use benchmarking and diffusion analysis to describe the changes within the telecommunications industry in a particular region to draw conclusions about telecom policy. By benchmarking telecom, they can compare the focal country's telecom infrastructure -- in this case, Poland -- to that of other countries and draw conclusions concerning the effectiveness of its telecom policies. They also use a basic diffusion model to draw policy implications concerning the pace of telecommunications infrastructure development. In this study, they compare Poland's telecom development at several levels to both its Central and Eastern European neighbors and the European Union and draw some conclusions from their findings.
- Benchmarking Telecommunications in Developing Countries: A Poland Case Study (unabridged)
Kroder, Stanley L. , Ph.D.
Wilkinson, Gary F. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Stan Kroder and Gary Wilkinson's unabridged article, only available electronically
- Broadband Access Ramps: The Inevitable Next Horizon
Wright, Terry
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Considers the drivers underlying the emergence of the publicly accessible broadband network. Begins by stepping back in history to look at similar change agents that produced paradigm shifts. Argues that the cable industry has the opportunity to be an influential catalyst in shaping the nature and timing for this evolution to broadband-accessed cyberspace, as it remolds its installed competitive advantage into the fundamental on-line services access transport.
- Cable Modems and the Internet
Evans, Scott
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Examines what is driving cable to commit billions in new capital expenditures to deploy a technology -- high-speed, on-line access via cable modem -- that has yet to prove itself. The author looks at the problems related to provisioning the service, and what it will take to bring the product to market.
- China's Telecom Market: Change and Competition
Rehak, Alexandra
Wang, John
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors analyze the trends, competition, and opportunities in China's telecommunications market and provide some forecasts of China's network development and telecom services.
- Competing with HFC: Tips, Tactics, and Tricks for Switched Digital Video Providers
Goldberg, Lee
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author looks at two competing systems for bringing voice, video, and data into homes and small businesses -- hybrid fiber/coax networks and switched digital systems. He discusses the architectural similarities and differences of each and the assumptions each makes about the future of communications. He argues convincingly that SDV's switched architecture and open-ended connectivity make it able to offer a wider variety of services. Finally, he provides some practical advice on how to leverage the strengths of SDV into competitive advantage.
- Competitive Advantage on Cable's Digital Tier
Gardner, James N. , Esq.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- On the eve of cable television's rollout of digital services, this article outlines what the author sees as the likely characteristics of competitive advantage on cable's digital tier. He begins with a discussion of some of the challenges facing the broadband communications industry as it seeks to make an historic transition to a new digital era, then sketches out six basic rules which may shape the terms of economic combat in this challenging new environment.
- Competitive Impacts of Wireless and Cable Voice Services
Vanston, Lawrence K. , Ph.D.
Rogers, Curt
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors analyze the magnitude and timing of the impact of wireless and cable competition on the LECs' wireline services, provide forecasts for some best- and worst-case scenarios and finally recommend some strategic responses for the LECs.
- Forecasts for Advanced Video Services
Vanston, Lawrence K. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author previews a newly defined industry -- advanced video services (AVS). He provides forecasts with analysis for the adoption and availability of AVS and HDTV. These forecasts are intended to help decision makers who are concerned with timing the development of the advanced video services market and the supporting infrastructure . Included is a table classifying video services by customer interface.
- HITS...and Misses!
Evans, Scott
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Argues that cable companies in search of new options for delivering digital services to market in a timely manner may find a near-term solution in HITS -- Headend in the Sky. .The author believes that the HITS approach provides a viable alternative for cable systems of all but the smallest size to offer additional programming in a mass market category.
- Hybrid Fiber Coax: A Solution for Broadband Information Services
Podlesny, Carl
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Impact of Internet Traffic on Public Telephone Networks
Kumar, Balaji
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Addresses the impacts and the implications of Internet traffic on the local exchange public network. First, some background on the LEC network and the assumptions used in the design of telephone networks is provided. Second, the characteristics of voice and Internet traffic are defined. Finally, how Internet traffic impacts the local network is defined. Having identified this impact, some potential solutions for short-term and long-term options are discussed.
- Implementing an ATM-Based Teleradiology Network
Kapoor, Sanjay
[HTML version]
- The author explains his company's decision to deploy high-speed, broadband network technologies in their efforts to establish a patient-centered network connecting health care facilities over a three-state area.
- ISDN in the United States: Strategies for Success, Part II
Harris, Robert G. , Ph.D.
Enriquez, Luis A.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Mobile Satellite Communications in Canada
Long, Murray R.
[HTML version]
- Discusses the characteristics and incentives to establish a domestic mobile satellite (MSAT) communications system in Canada. Included are discussions of the technology, how it differs from GEO, MEO, and LEO satellite systems, and the customer base (major users), as well as distribution and product development strategies to address the unique challenges of selling MSAT services.
- Opening Brazil's Telecom Markets to Competition
Sapoznik, Ralph
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Ralph Sapoznik provides us with an overview of the events that led to the establishment of multiple Brazil-owned monopolies and the Brazilian model for privatization of those monopolies. He builds a case for privatizing telecom services in Brazil, then presents the advantages of moving to a duopoly model before opening the markets to full competition. Ralph also considers the patterns of noncompetitive behavior and discusses the potential for anti-competitive problems.
- Optimizing ISDN to Give More Capacity at Less Cost
Bryce, James Y.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Reviews the history of ISDN, provides some quick fundamentals, and finally addresses the problem of public switched network congestion brought on by intense Internet use. The author argues against dedicated ISDN and builds a case for Always On/Dynamic ISDN (AO/DI) Network Architecture, which creates the illusion of full-time connection while actually reducing connection times and costs to carriers and users.
- Packet Plutocracy, Data Democracy, and the Bureaucracy
Wohlstetter, John C.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- This article examines FCC policy concerning access to advanced services that risks perpetuating a plutocracy of high-end users while delaying diffusion to the mass marketplace. John discusses how Sections 254 and 706 of the Telecom Act could potentially work at cross-purposes with each other, how the FCC interprets the interplay between these two sections, and whether this interplay could advance or delay rapid modernization of the public switched telephone network.
- Packet Policies: Petabits, Photons, Phonemes, and the Feds
Wohlstetter, John C.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author provides a candid look at FCC policy-making rules on incumbent LEC interconnection, availability of unbundled network elements, and universal access. He starts the discussion with a review of packet networks, then addresses the potential harm to ISP interests that may arise from these FCC rules. Finally, he suggests how proper regulation of packet networks can help the Internet flourish.
- Perspectives on Broadband Network Technologies and Applications
Perey, Christine
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author reviews three initiatives currently underway in the San Francisco Bay Area to test broadband networked multimedia technologies and products. She gives us an overview of each project and interviews some of the people involved for their perspectives and insights.
- Quality of Service for Multimedia Communications
Fredricsson, Staffan , Ph.D.
Perey, Christine
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors review a Multimedia Communications Quality of Service document developed by the Multimedia Communications Forum to provide both service providers and users with universal performance guidelines and service parameters for multimedia communications.
- Rebooting the Regulatory Operating System: The Computer Industry Turns on the Power
Van Tassel, Joan , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Tells the story of an extraordinary industry coming of age, its entrance into the domain of public policy and regulation, and its demand for changes in the way business-as-usual is conducted. This article begins with a description of the core beliefs and practices that are so highly regarded within the information technology (IT) pantheon. It then describes the factors that are propelling the IT companies to action and the fears this creates in traditional analog-based entertainment, consumer electronics, and telecommunications industries. From there, the article details the inter-industry conflicts that have arisen and the actions the information interests are taking to pressure the government and existing industries to meet the needs of digital technologies. Finally, after covering the scorecard of the IT efforts, the piece examines the potential for moving from conflict to collaboration between these groups.
- Recommendations for the Global Information Highway: A Matter of Standards
Krechmer, Ken
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author discusses telecom standards and their role in the evolution of the Global Information Highway (GIH). He argues that much remains to be done to create a broad consensus among a variety of telecom standards organizations to further define and move the early vision of the GIH toward reality.
- Sharpening the Videoconference Target
Grant, August E. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author takes the position that videoconferencing has not yet reached the "critical mass" necessary for dramatic growth across markets. He begins the article with a brief look at an incredibly practical theory relating to the adoption of interactive technologies, using fax technology to illustrate the theory. The theory is then used to illustrate one of the biggest hurdles that videoconference technology must vault before becoming as ubiquitous as comparable technologies.
- Smart Communities In Action
Jung, John G.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- John Jung's companion article available only electronically.
- Smart Communities: Digitally-Inclined and Content-Rich
Jung, John G.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- John Jung has previously written about the increasing role of telecommunications in any community's economic development strategy. In this latest NTQ article, he looks at the state of the smart community today. He argues that merely deploying additional wire does not make the community smart. The successful smart communities are those that are able to use the technologies of a knowledge-based economy to develop, market, and supply new products and services that are demanded both by other knowledge-based economies and by the developing markets moving in that direction.
- Southern African Regional Telecommunications: Addressing the Challenges of the 21st Century
Coakley, John
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Global Perspective columnist John Coakley discusses the formidable challenge the 12 nations of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) face in keeping pace with the evolving global telecommunications sector. This article discusses reform efforts currently underway in these 12 nations plus the anticipated next steps in their efforts to privatize and introduce competition. Included is a table of SADC Telecom Indicators and a sidebar describing the SADC and the Regional Telecommunications Restructuring Program objective.
- Telecommunications in China: More Than Was Bargained For?
Ure, John , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Discusses the likelihood of China opening its telecom market to foreign direct investment (FDI) for funding much-needed network expansion. Included in the discussion is a review of China's telecom revenue sources and opportunities. Also included is an insightful look into the Chinese policy-making process.
- Telecommunications' Big Idea
Niles, John S.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- John Niles argues that the primary purpose of telecommunications for society is simply where best to go depends on what you know. In other words, telecommunications facilitates a better level and mix of proximity to the people and places we care about. He discusses the individual, organizational, and social forces that shape the choice between proximity and remote interaction, including the real costs of time and travel, internal reorganization, balkanization, interest articulation and interest aggregation.
- Telecommunications: Drivers for Change
Hodges, Ray L.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author looks at three key drivers -- technology, competition and new services -- and examines how they are reinforcing each other to change the telecommunications landscape.
- Telehealth at the Crossroads
Gardner, James N. , Esq.
Barron, James H.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors summarize and analyze a report done by the Council on Competitiveness, Highway to Health: Transforming U.S. Health Care in the Information Age. This comprehensive report identifies the major roadblocks impeding the rollout of a national health information infrastructure and assesses the potential benefits that would result from their removal. The authors outline the specific barriers identified by the Council and analyze the proposed reforms.
- Telemedicine in the 1990s: Issues and Opportunities
Thomas, Bennett
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Bennett Thomas looks at telemedicine in the 1990s, and its potential for delivering quality, cost-effective medical care. He notes that while high costs and inadequate infrastructure continue to be problems, cultural and human factors also present big obstacles to acceptance. This article includes five case studies from around the world: Newfoundland, the United States, Germany, Russia, and Third World Nations. He concludes that the keys to success are adequate funding and widespread project support from those involved.
- The Art of Building Large Cellular Systems
Westin, Dan M.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Explores recent developments in terms of roaming capability and the expansion of cellular networks. In particular, it examines how switching systems of different vendors can work smoothly together on a local, regional, and national basis. A case history is featured to demonstrate how these factors come together for existing analog networks and digital systems coming on-line in China.
- The Challenge of Implementing Service-Provider Portability
Rollins, John C. , MS, PE
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Reviews one key aspect of the 1996 Telecommunications Act -- the implementation of Service Provider Portability (SPP). Included in the discussion is a review of some history associated with SPP and a look at the impacts to network switching components from a hardware and software perspective.
- The Demise of Analog Cellular
Hodges, Ray L.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author analyzes and forecasts the inevitable replacement of analog cellular with digital technologies. Included in this article are Technology Futures' latest forecasts for the growth of wireless and PCS subscribers and the rate of displacement of analog with digital.
- The Evolution of the Interactive Broadband Server, Part I
Van Tassel, Joan , Ph.D.
Rose, Steve W.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The authors discuss developments leading up to and traditional approaches to the design of interactive broadband servers. Particular attention is given to servers that are constructed by aggregating conventional single bus computers with other necessary components.
- The Evolution of the Interactive Broadband Server, Part II: The Cool Hairy Onion
Van Tassel, Joan , Ph.D.
Rose, Steve W.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- In Part I of this article in the last issue of NTQ (1Q96), the authors discussed the design and inherent problems with conventional linear interactive broadband server (IBS) design. In this second part, they present the rationale for the features and resulting benefits of an integrated IBS design which will translate into improved performance and reliability. They use the "cool hairy onion" analogy to describe the richly connected layers separated by function and responsibility. The authors describe each functional layer and the storage design, and conclude with some thoughts on the location of the server.
- The Interactive Device for the Information Age
Miller, Avram
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author argues quite convincingly that it is the PC, not the TV, that will become the ubiquitous information device used by people for communicating and accessing information on the electronic superhighway of tomorrow.
- The Residential Gateway: A New Traffic Cop for the Home
Holliday, Clifford R.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- The author introduces us to a new concept -- the Residential Gateway -- that is a basic enabler for residential broadband communications networks. He believes that this concept is crucial to the realization of a multiple-provider, competitive residential environment. The Residential Gateway provides an effective solution to multiple incompatible external networks such as twisted copper pair, fiber optics, and coax interfacing with in-home networks and devices such as VCRs, TVs, and PCs.
- The War of the Wires
Evans, Scott
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Examines the market dynamics of providing a multitude of communications products and services to the home. The author discusses the key factor limiting new service introduction -- the aging infrastructure. He talks about current competitive strategies for both the telephone and cable industries and gives us his thoughts on what we can expect in 1997.
- Three Scenarios for the Adoption of FITL and xDSL
Vanston, Lawrence K. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Presents three scenarios of how local exchange carriers may evolve their landline networks to provide high-speed digital services to residences requiring access to multimedia on-line/Internet applications. All three scenarios envision the ultimate adoption of fiber; the difference is in the timing.
- Virtual Worlds Commerce
Gell, Michael , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Explores the shift in the market toward the commoditization of virtual reality and the creation of on-line virtual worlds. New developments in electronic commerce are identified which point the way toward new forms of business intelligence and new sources of profit. The implications for the telecom industry are analyzed in terms of the new technologies and capabilities required to support virtual worlds commerce. Opportunities and threats are also identified.
- Vision Planning
Holliday, Clifford R.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Addresses a set of techniques directed at formalizing the process of vision development and follow-through. The author outlines the process of developing, refining, and testing a vision statement. He explains why comparing the draft vision against technology projections and plans is so important. Finally, he discusses the real "payoff" stage of Vision Planning -- backward deployment or high-level implementation planning.
- We Have Found the Killer App--And It is Killing Us
Holliday, Clifford R.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Looks at the design of the telco network and the Internet, then considers the impact of the projected Internet traffic on various parts of those combined networks. The author illustrates why he thinks the Web is becoming a "real killer" and discusses some of the possible ways to reform this "felon" application.
- Will TVs and PCs Converge? Point and Counterpoint
Grant, August E. , Ph.D.
Shamp, Scott A. , Ph.D.
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Presents two sides of the debate on whether technological, organizational, and social factors related to computers and televisions have gotten to the point that the two devices are converging into an "information appliance." The authors consider factors impeding convergence, then take a look at factors pushing convergence.
- Wireless Local Loop in Hungary: A Case Study
Bennatan, Elli
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Describes some of the challenges and lessons learned in the implementation of a fixed wireless telephony system in Hungary. The Hungarian national telecommunications operator required a wireless network that could provide the quality, performance, and features of competing landline systems.
- xDSL: The Solution for Today's Bandwidth Demands?
Smith, David
[HTML version] [pdf version]
- Looks at the future of several xDSL technologies and potential market opportunities. The primary focus is on several different variations of ADSL and why they provide a quick, cost-effective solution to today's bandwidth constraints. Concludes with a discussion of where the real market opportunities wait and raises some questions about potential problems.
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