James, I suggest you read a feature report in the June 11, 1996 PC Magazine call "Fast Connections"(networking edition) on page 143. The report compares ISDN,ASDL,cable modems and satellite connections to the Interent and Online services in 8 different catagories(cost,speed, availability, etc). Granted this is one persons opinion but his conclusions are very logical. All have their problems.
Short summary: ISDN is twice current costs, ASDL must be within 2.3 miles of a central switch office, cable modems are going to be a massive investment for the providers and direct brodcast satellite service is going to be very expensive to the individual.If anyone is thinking,that going from analog to something new is going to be quick, think again. Companies with leading technology in the years ahead will make some a ton of money. However, none are going to do it overnight and not without a serious risk to your investment. I haven't checked but suggest you try PC Magazines home page. hhtp://WWW.PCMAG.COM for this review. It is something everyone should read if they are going to invest in new communication techologies.
John |
