Networks and Optical Communications 1996

New broadband services, which depend on state-of-the art technology, are expected to drive investment in broadband fibre optic networks. Rapid growth in fibre optic systems is likely to lead to the development of a fibre superhighway. This study explores the impact of emerging broadband services and technology on fibre systems design and deployment of the superhighway. Multi-media networks based on ATM LAN technology can provide integrated transmission of voice, data and visual information direct to the workstation. The strategic importance of such networks to organizations which depend on electronic transmissions, and the smooth operation of these networks is therefore of critical importance. This text investigates the state of corporate networks, and provides a view of how emerging new technology will improve communications efficiency. It also aims to show how the cost of the technology and its installation can be reduced to a level which is affordable to users, in order to gain maximum benefit from new services on a reliable network.