1) To what extent is XDSL limited by the modem one uses?
ADSL modems, like ISDN modems, are different than analog modems and create a digital network connection to a switch at the connection point.
1a) If one needs to upgrade to a different modem, what standards does one look for or criteria does one apply in selecting one?
Don't know that, I had a friend who got connected and I bought what he bought. Suggest you get advice from someone who knows more than I do.
2) What is the difference between ADSL and XDSL?
XDSL is generic like X86 and includes a variety of standards like IDSL, ADSL etc.
3) What selection criteria should one use in selecting a new computer to maximally utilize XDSL?
Most of the work is done in the interface so anything should work - it's less taxing to the system than an ethernet card.
4) You note that SW Bell started offering ADSL in your area, and that you had subscribed. What are the associated installation/monthly costs?
I paid a little over $200 for installation and $60 / month access
5) Since you had to 'subscribe', I am guessing that this is not a feature that one gets automatically with the proper equipment configuration.
Getting the service is like getting a phone line, you still need an ISP with ADSL hookup, or a switch provider who will translate to a protocol your ISP already supports like T1. Getting a T1 hookup from an ISP is a big dollar proposition. No one in their right mind would do these things the way I do, I don't think about the cost too much.
Next set of questions:
a) What types of businesses will benefit most from this feature? ==> Stock market traders, I would guess. Any company that derives significant portions of revenue over the internet. Any company that conducts significant portions of operations over the internet. Any company geographically spread out.
I would think that many businesses are already T1, some might switch, but I think that near term the benefit is getting bandwidth to individuals.
b) Would it be true to surmise that in order to take full advantage, both (all) ends of a communications net would need to subscribe?
Not quite - once you connect to a provider like SPRINT you should be able to take advantage of existing high bandwidth connections transparently, even if they are different physical or transport layer. it's all TCP/IP at that point.
c) Is this technology more (most) applicable to cultures with an established wire infrastructure?
AT the moment
d) Is this technolgy applicable to wire only, or can it be used on fiberoptics as well?
There is no difference between wire or fiber except most folks can't get fiber to their house.
e) Is this technology portable to non-wire communications?
e1) If not, what is the comparable wireless technology?
there are wireless standards but they are farther out in implementation |
