[Telco ADSL Dilemma]
Pat,
<< The telcos will certainly need a highspeed
solution to compete with each other and with the ISPs---including the MCIs, Sprints and
IBMs of the world. >>
As you can see Bell Atlantic and other RBOC's are in a bit of a
dilemma with ADSL and each one may approach this solution differently.
Another important point, do you see Bell Atlantic trying to offer local
service in california? No, too much money to build the infrastructure.
That's why you see Bell South use the IBM Global network to offer
Ineternet access OUTSIDE of the Bell South area.
GTE is agressive with ADSL trials. They understand the importance of
a competitive advantage, BUT at the same time are trying to pass a
bill which $$charges ISP's for access (today, ISP's don't pay RBOC's for
call completion like long distance companies). Maybe the trick will
be in the tarriff that they file.
The AT&T solution "angel" is the 128K fixed wireless solution. They
have stated plans of a future 1.5mb speed over time. The KEY issue
here will be time for deployment. They are testing in chicago this
year with 30,000 folks. If this solution were available today...I
believe Bell ATlantic and others would be a little more agressive with ADSL.
The problem is the RBOC's own the copper going to a house,ISP's and
others must work with the RBOC's...unless a company has it's own
infrastructure (switches & cable in the ground). Some companies do (like
MCI) but it's mostly for business.
RBOC competition is coming (from AT&T, MCI & Sprint). They are being
forced to offer their networks to the LD carriers for resale. Having
said that, I'm not sure how ADSL will be treated by the FCC. Is it
a resaleable product or is it "value added" and only a RBOC product.
Once competition is in place...you'll see GTE & the RBOCS offering
ADSL much quicker...or else they lose their customers to the long
distance companies who will be offering both.
Regards,
Bob |
