Pipes and types: options for delivering broadband services to residential subscribers

Abstract

As the era of multimedia applications arrives, the daunting challenge of actually delivering broadband services to residential subscribers must be met. Several technologically feasible solutions to this problem have been proposed including the use of copper, fiber, and hybrid fiber/coax transmission systems. The paper explores both the advantages and disadvantages of the technological and real-world aspects offered by each of these technologies. Conclusions and recommendations of technologies which are best-suited for real-world deployment are made based on the issues discussed.