Aware is First to Demonstrate a Splitterless Version of DMT DSL Technology Suitable for PC Modem Applications
BEDFORD, Mass., November 4, 1997 - Aware, Inc. (NASDAQ: AWRE), a worldwide leader in xDSL (digital subscriber line) technology, has demonstrated the first "splitterless" version of its DMT (discrete multitone) technology suitable for PC modem applications. Delivering downstream speeds of up to 1.5 Mbps over CSA loops without the need for POTS splitters at the customer premises, Aware's DSL Lite technology is an important stepping stone between the voice band modems available today and full-rate ADSL, which provides downstream data transfer of over 8 Mbps.
Removing the POTS splitter will significantly accelerate the wide-scale deployment and acceptance of xDSL. Eliminating the need for service providers to install a POTS splitter - the device that physically separates the ADSL signal from the regular phone signal - makes installation at every home as easy as that of today's voice band modems. No modification to the home's internal wiring is required. A DSL Lite modem can be plugged into any existing phone jack. In addition, DSL Lite's lower speeds require less complexity than full-speed ADSL and allow digital subscriber line implementations using today's DSPs (digital signal processors). Leveraging PC modem hardware greatly reduces the cost of DSL modems. This will enable local exchange carriers to offer high-speed Internet access at prices attractive to consumers.
Because it utilizes DMT technology, the ANSI standard for ADSL modulation, Aware's DSL Lite can easily be made interoperable with standard-compliant ADSL central office equipment. This permits a local exchange carrier to cost-effectively install a single access termination system for both full-rate ADSL and the new splitterless version. Aware's DSL Lite also provides an upward migration path to full-rate ADSL, protecting customer investments, and reducing the threat of a fractured xDSL industry.
DSL Lite is a robust technology that can achieve high-speed data transfer over local loops of up to 22,000 feet, with a wide variety of home-wiring configurations and multiple bridged taps. Enabling either asymmetric or symmetric data services simultaneously over standard telephone lines using existing home wiring, DSL Lite provides consumers with a high-speed Internet connection while giving them full use of phone lines for voice or fax calls.
At the ITU Study Group Meeting 15 in Red Bank, New Jersey earlier this month, Aware presented system design and performance measurements for a DSL Lite system. In addition, Aware showed extensive evidence that a "lite" version of DMT ADSL works well in a splitterless installation and can maintain full interoperability with standards-based T1.413ADSL central office equipment.
Jim Bender, president and chief executive officer of Aware noted: "Our DSL Lite technology clearly moves DSL beyond the realm of a telecommunications transmission system toward that of a PC modem, while still allowing an easy upgrade path to standard compliant DMT ADSL. DSL Lite is a stepping stone that will enhance the entire xDSL industry. "
Tom Starr of Ameritech noted: "Though our initial service deployments will be based on conventional ADSL configurations, we have a strong interest in the idea of splitterless ADSL. Simplifying our installation and making it easy for our customers to get the benefits of higher speed services will facilitate wide-scale deployment. We are particularly interested in seeing "lite' solutions that are interoperable with full-speed ADSL systems." |
