Forthcoming technology

Your customers might well be drawn to big time Internet-based applications, like video-conferencing and the heavy duty end of the Java application market, if there was a technology that made Internet connection quicker, more reliable but not more expensive. A solution to this challenge may well exist in the form of asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL). Deceptively simple on the face of it, ASDL is designed to work over existing copper phone lines, and promises to deliver access speeds that go beyond those promised by ISDN and cable modems hooked up to cable TV lines. Since no additional infrastructural investment is needed, telcos are waking up to the idea of offering high speed access that is not going to cost them much in capital terms. The ADSL Forum is currently debating ADSL standards.

Experts speculate that ASDL, combined with VDSL (a turbo-charged modem technology), could deliver performance of up to 52Mbps, using telephone lines. Sounds too good to be true? With giant vendors and telcos all actively investigating ASDL potential, it may not be long before it is a reality.

Expect those heavy duty Internet-based applications to start selling like hot cakes if it does.