Here's a recent article on ADSL for the consumer. It sounds as though some modems will allow simultaneous voice and data.
techweb.com
Of course, as often happens, there are many different manufacturers, and no set standard.
techweb.com
It seems that CLECs (Competitive Local Exchange Carriers) are already allowed by the 1996 telecommunications law to install their equipment in telephone company locations, and can thus provide ADSL. The impression I have, is that during the 1970s and 1980s, which were decades of explosive growth for the telephone companies, they concentrated on voice communications, and didn't provide good service for data communications. That led to the creation of many CLECs. Earlier articles I read about XDSL indicated that it was mainly for business application. In fact, I have heard it mentioned as a potential substitute for T-1 lines for some businesses. The telephone companies charge around $1000/month for a T-1 line, and I thought DSL would be billed out around $500/month. Obviously, not many consumers would pay $500/month, so there has either been a big change in technology or in marketing.
There's a reference to problems with the higher speed ADSL over some noisy lines, and it's possible that the distinction between the commercial and consumer versions will be based on the speed. |
