Hi Alex, while I'm not altogether well versed on the topic, aren't most WAP ASPs operating in the mode of virtual mobile operators for those periods that users are logged onto them? Maybe we're viewing this in different contexts. But TTBOMK, none or very few of those providing WAP accounts for 'net access are facilities based.
In your earlier post you noted:
"Maybe, deregulation will not live up to its promise and less competition enters the market."
The term deregulation stands out. Selective dereg, and competition "through" regulation. It's a hodge podge. Where does the Act of '96 fit into all of this? You know which one I mean. The one that was drafted by the ILEC lobbyists.
Also, you noted that greenfields could deploy converged services more efficiently than the incumbents. Over what form of access platforms? Wireless? Or, using existing metallic facilities, bypassing the end office switch? Maybe the MSOs' emerging packet cable?
On that subject, do you (or anyone else here) know if packet over cable will be open territory for value-added providers (greenfields, among them) to pursue?
While we're on the subject, isn't it true that the three largest Class 5 switch manufacturers (Lucent, Nortel and Siemens) all have equivalent capabilities, i.e., to provide multiple IP services, including voice, in various options that are found in their line card circuit packs at this time?
For example, I seem to recall - and I could be wrong on the timing of the VoIP part - that both LU and NT have adapted their Class 5 (end office switch) line cards to support both DSL and VoIP. Why have the ILECs elected NOT to acquire these features as upgrades yet, and not to turn them on where they are native in new switches?
They probably have good reasons. Like.. their customers' Made in (choose your favorite SE Asian or Pacific Rim country) Bell South telephone instruments do not speak IP yet, let alone converged services. Their PCs do. But if that were the issue, then those customers would be using their PCs for all of their needs now. But they're not. Which is an indication to the ILECs that they don't have to move too quickly in this space, just yet.
FAC |
