FIBER ACCESS IN THE USA - SYSTEMS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR DEVICES

As a result of increasing demand and regulatory changes, access system s are undergoing significant expansion. Although wireless and copper-b ased systems are being deployed, fiber access systems provide the best conduit for broadband services. Significant deployment and trials of Hybrid Fiber-Coax (HFC) and Switched Digital Video (SDV) systems are u nderway, and additional architectures are being considered for future upgraded networks. We review the progress in this field, and indicate where enabling device technologies can provide key functions.