TORONTO -- (MARKET WIRE) -- November 30, 2006 -- Trimax Corporation (OTCBB: TMXO) and its wholly owned subsidiaries, PLC Networks Inc. (PLC) and Multi-Source Inc. (MSI), (www.plcnetworksinc.com/) are pleased to confirm that the recent ruling by the Federal Communications Commission holds unprecedented significance for the future of Trimax and the Broadband over PowerLine (BPL) industry as a whole.
The FCC has ruled that BPL-enabled internet access services have been classified as an information service instead of its previous telecommunications service label. This promotes Trimax's BPL technology on an equal regulatory footing as enjoyed by the cable and DSL companies. Trimax is a leading BPL service provider for the residential, commercial and industrial sectors using existing power lines as its infrastructure.
The FCC's ruling opens the door for BPL technology and supports fair competition amongst the broadband services available to consumers in the United States. FCC Commissioner Deborah Taylor Tate indicated that the technology has tremendous upside potential for many different parties. In a statement she noted, "The presence of another broadband platform could help to bolster competition and, hopefully, lower prices for consumers, especially in rural communities. Plus, the presence of an additional data network would help serve an important homeland security function, adding redundancy to our critical infrastructure -- this is the potential of BPL, and it is exciting." Derek Pepler, President & CEO of Trimax, commented, "This FCC support gives our industry further confirmation and fosters additional competition for consumers. The ruling will have positive impact in resolving concerns from the investment community and should assist policy makers from countries around the globe that have been observing this BPL rulemaking process."
The Commission came down with its ruling after viewing BPL demonstration sites in Keller, Texas, and Potomac, Maryland. As per past press releases, Trimax has secured contracts globally and is currently developing interest for BPL in West Africa, Pakistan, and East Asia. The company has expertise in product integration, networking infrastructure, and provides bundled service offerings of internet, VoIP, IPTV, VOD, AMR and surveillance.
www.plcnetworksinc.com/
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Nationwide Rollout of 20 Mbps In-Building BPL Voice, Video and Data Services Blazes Trail for Industry !!!
November 28, 2006 11:00 AM Eastern Time
First Communications Partners with MetaSwitch to Deploy Enhanced Broadband Services over Power Line
Nationwide Rollout of In-Building BPL Voice, Video and Data Services Blazes Trail for Industry
AKRON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Communications, one of the largest Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) in the Midwest, has recently deployed advanced voice and data services delivered over existing power lines in multi-dwelling/multi-tenant (MDU/MTU) buildings to residential and business customers throughout the United States. These services--including broadband Internet, advanced telephony, video on-demand, smart home and an array of security monitoring offerings--leverage next-generation switching and application solutions provided by MetaSwitch.
The new services, known as FirstSpeed BPL, are provided through medium-voltage electricity circuits with a sophisticated technology known as Broadband over Power Lines (BPL). In-building BPL utilizes the existing electrical infrastructure of a building to disperse high-speed connectivity throughout a building. This state-of-art delivery solution does not require expensive re-wiring of the network, and delivers blazing throughput of up to 20 Mbps, which easily outperforms DSL or cable systems.
The new advanced services are directly related to First Communications decision to move its key switching infrastructure from several large-scale Nortel DMS500 switches to new CA9000 softswitch and MG3510 media gateways from MetaSwitch, said Charles Leedy, Ph.D., Vice President of Network Operations at First Communications.
“The biggest benefit of a BPL network is that we don’t have to go though a traditional regional Bell company to provide our customers access to these exciting new services,” said Leedy. “MetaSwitch provided us with innovative technology that opened up powerful alternative access, without additional construction, wiring, regulatory or safety issues. For our business customers, this means they can simply and quickly network the enterprise through their building’s electrical grid.”
“First Communications has demonstrated exceptional vision and industry leadership in combining BPL technology with a flexible softswitch-based services platform,” said Andrew Randall, Vice President of Marketing at MetaSwitch. “The benefits of their new infrastructure are three-fold: they have exponentially grown their market reach; they have added a host of revenue-enhancing services; and they are providing customers with considerable additional value. It is enormously satisfying to see MetaSwitch solutions driving the adoption of new technologies and enabling the competitive telecommunications sector to thrive through innovation.”
Source: Business Wire 2006
First Communications Partners with MetaSwitch to Deploy Enhanced Broadband Services over Power Line
Nationwide Rollout of In-Building BPL Voice, Video and Data Services Blazes Trail for Industry
AKRON, Ohio--(BUSINESS WIRE)--First Communications, one of the largest Competitive Local Exchange Carriers (CLECs) in the Midwest, has recently deployed advanced voice and data services delivered over existing power lines in multi-dwelling/multi-tenant (MDU/MTU) buildings to residential and business customers throughout the United States. These services--including broadband Internet, advanced telephony, video on-demand, smart home and an array of security monitoring offerings--leverage next-generation switching and application solutions provided by MetaSwitch.
The new services, known as FirstSpeed BPL, are provided through medium-voltage electricity circuits with a sophisticated technology known as Broadband over Power Lines (BPL). In-building BPL utilizes the existing electrical infrastructure of a building to disperse high-speed connectivity throughout a building. This state-of-art delivery solution does not require expensive re-wiring of the network, and delivers blazing throughput of up to 20 Mbps, which easily outperforms DSL or cable systems.
The new advanced services are directly related to First Communications decision to move its key switching infrastructure from several large-scale Nortel DMS500 switches to new CA9000 softswitch and MG3510 media gateways from MetaSwitch, said Charles Leedy, Ph.D., Vice President of Network Operations at First Communications.
“The biggest benefit of a BPL network is that we don’t have to go though a traditional regional Bell company to provide our customers access to these exciting new services,” said Leedy. “MetaSwitch provided us with innovative technology that opened up powerful alternative access, without additional construction, wiring, regulatory or safety issues. For our business customers, this means they can simply and quickly network the enterprise through their building’s electrical grid.”
“First Communications has demonstrated exceptional vision and industry leadership in combining BPL technology with a flexible softswitch-based services platform,” said Andrew Randall, Vice President of Marketing at MetaSwitch. “The benefits of their new infrastructure are three-fold: they have exponentially grown their market reach; they have added a host of revenue-enhancing services; and they are providing customers with considerable additional value. It is enormously satisfying to see MetaSwitch solutions driving the adoption of new technologies and enabling the competitive telecommunications sector to thrive through innovation.”
Source: Business Wire 2006
Monday, November 27, 2006
PPL Electric Utilities Goes Live with First Large-Scale Hourly Meter Data Management System
Monday November 27, 10:11 am ET
WELLESLEY, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To promote a more efficient electricity distribution system, the utility industry, as well as the 2005 Energy Policy Act, have called for consideration of advanced meters that measure electric usage on an hourly basis for all customers. This month, when its new data management software system went "live," PPL Electric Utilities (PPL) became the nation's first utility to obtain hourly usage from its entire customer base - nearly 1.4 million homes and businesses.
PPL's Meter Data Management System (MDMS), developed and installed by Nexus Energy Software, is providing data validation, process management, storage, and analysis of hourly meter readings which are reported throughout the day by signals sent over power lines from all customers' meters, primarily utilizing TWACS® by DCSI meter communications technology. With successful live operation of the Nexus MDMS(TM), PPL has the largest operational system in North America in terms of hourly read data volume, and will be the most comprehensive in terms of applications that leverage the data.
"The integration of our advanced metering system with the Nexus MDMS unlocks the door to a whole host of applications that will benefit our customers and the company," remarked Bernie Bujnowski, Director of Advanced Metering for PPL. "The availability of hourly energy use information will enable significant improvements in our operations and, over time, enhancements to customer services."
The Nexus MDMS(TM) is the centralized storage and control system for data operations for the hourly meter reads, and provides the platform for integrated applications for enhanced revenue protection, complex billing, forecasting, distribution management, load research, settlement, and customer energy management services, which will be rolled out over the next several months.
"We were very impressed with Nexus' vision of what a meter data management system can deliver, as well as their innovative approach to both data storage and leveraging data for business benefit," added Bujnowski. "We were also impressed with the smooth implementation, which took less than 6 months."
Harvey Michaels, CEO of Nexus Energy Software, added: "We appreciate that PPL chose to work with us on data management systems to achieve the potential of its pioneering all-customer advanced meter system. Leveraging our experiences with on-line customer service, asset planning, complex billing, and other critical systems to more than 85 energy companies worldwide helped us deliver a solution to PPL that ensured performance-at-scale as well as delivering business results and customer energy management benefits."
WELLESLEY, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To promote a more efficient electricity distribution system, the utility industry, as well as the 2005 Energy Policy Act, have called for consideration of advanced meters that measure electric usage on an hourly basis for all customers. This month, when its new data management software system went "live," PPL Electric Utilities (PPL) became the nation's first utility to obtain hourly usage from its entire customer base - nearly 1.4 million homes and businesses.
PPL's Meter Data Management System (MDMS), developed and installed by Nexus Energy Software, is providing data validation, process management, storage, and analysis of hourly meter readings which are reported throughout the day by signals sent over power lines from all customers' meters, primarily utilizing TWACS® by DCSI meter communications technology. With successful live operation of the Nexus MDMS(TM), PPL has the largest operational system in North America in terms of hourly read data volume, and will be the most comprehensive in terms of applications that leverage the data.
"The integration of our advanced metering system with the Nexus MDMS unlocks the door to a whole host of applications that will benefit our customers and the company," remarked Bernie Bujnowski, Director of Advanced Metering for PPL. "The availability of hourly energy use information will enable significant improvements in our operations and, over time, enhancements to customer services."
The Nexus MDMS(TM) is the centralized storage and control system for data operations for the hourly meter reads, and provides the platform for integrated applications for enhanced revenue protection, complex billing, forecasting, distribution management, load research, settlement, and customer energy management services, which will be rolled out over the next several months.
"We were very impressed with Nexus' vision of what a meter data management system can deliver, as well as their innovative approach to both data storage and leveraging data for business benefit," added Bujnowski. "We were also impressed with the smooth implementation, which took less than 6 months."
Harvey Michaels, CEO of Nexus Energy Software, added: "We appreciate that PPL chose to work with us on data management systems to achieve the potential of its pioneering all-customer advanced meter system. Leveraging our experiences with on-line customer service, asset planning, complex billing, and other critical systems to more than 85 energy companies worldwide helped us deliver a solution to PPL that ensured performance-at-scale as well as delivering business results and customer energy management benefits."
Sunday, November 26, 2006
WALL STREET SEES NEW INVENTION AS BENEFICIAL AND NECESSARY: inventions related to power line communications and Broadband over power line
WALL STREET SEES NEW INVENTION AS BENEFICIAL AND NECESSARY
Leah Parker
November 24, 2006
New York, New York. Dallas Inventor causes stir on Wall Street for his recent issued U.S. patent, (Patent No. 7,132,950) targeted at modernization of our U.S. utility business operations and its lack of modernization. This new Power Management Method and System describes a robust integration of measurement and analysis using inductive couplers, geospatial location technology and signals measurement technology that far exceeds the standards used by electric companies in the U.S. and abroad. Rumors on Wall Street seem to want to know how a disruptive technology like this can help the country and its consumers; or will it cause disarray in the electric industry at large because of so many new and novel systems now being lobbied everyday to Congress on the hill right now.
Stewart’s patent may be a technology that has arrived at the right place at the right time. But this was said about William L. Stewart’s inventions related to power line communications and Broadband over power line. Granted, Stewart seemed to be ahead of his time at moment when he introduced Power line Communications but his PLC/BPL technology has still not be proven. To his credit many companies including AT&T, Current Technologies, Amperion and other leading PLC/BPL companies have recently been awarded U.S. Patents that cite Stewart’s 1999 U.S. Patent (5,982,276) as prior art in their scientific efforts. However, this does not mean that Stewart is ahead once again. Many companies on Wall Street are looking at this new effort by Stewart to determine issues like uniqueness, time to market, costs and efficiencies. We can expect a through review by peers in the industry to provide insight on Stewart’s latest invention.
The Democrats in Congress want results on this energy crisis and perhaps Stewart has just what the Doctor Ordered. It Maybe not a “silver bullet”; but a tourniquet to stop the bleeding and improve the health of our nation’s utility infrastructure could make a revolutionary difference in our current electric grid reliability. The Republicans may see this is a benefit that they have bi-partisan interests. I look forward to a tangible solution and I believe that every American shares my expectation.
When I spoke with Mr. Stewart about some of my questions he seem forthcoming and willing to discuss in detail the benefits of his new U. S. Patent. “Look,” he said as he responded to my question of how “real is this invention”. “I have worked with some of the most well recognized companies in their respective fields to develop the systems that will be integrated into the PMI™ application. I am honored to work with the caliber of scientists and their teams to be able to provide this advanced transmission technology application. I look forward to the day that we have successfully reduced our dependence on oil, have alternative fuels, and have reduced our greenhouse gas emissions to a lesser degree.” That is all I have to say.”
I let the second interview related to this technology end there. I welcome the ability to speak with Mr. Stewart. He is articulate and kind with his approach to me, a non-technical person.
I also thought the comments from Mr. Keith Miller, formerly with Common Wealth Edison, raised some good points. After all, he comes from the utility industry. When I asked Mr. Miller whether the utility industry would embrace this technology, Miller said, “I believe that can and they will.” “We just can’t wait any longer for these types of improvements.”
More: Dallas Based Inventor Awarded U.S. Patent for Advanced Transmission Technology
Leah Parker
November 24, 2006
New York, New York. Dallas Inventor causes stir on Wall Street for his recent issued U.S. patent, (Patent No. 7,132,950) targeted at modernization of our U.S. utility business operations and its lack of modernization. This new Power Management Method and System describes a robust integration of measurement and analysis using inductive couplers, geospatial location technology and signals measurement technology that far exceeds the standards used by electric companies in the U.S. and abroad. Rumors on Wall Street seem to want to know how a disruptive technology like this can help the country and its consumers; or will it cause disarray in the electric industry at large because of so many new and novel systems now being lobbied everyday to Congress on the hill right now.
Stewart’s patent may be a technology that has arrived at the right place at the right time. But this was said about William L. Stewart’s inventions related to power line communications and Broadband over power line. Granted, Stewart seemed to be ahead of his time at moment when he introduced Power line Communications but his PLC/BPL technology has still not be proven. To his credit many companies including AT&T, Current Technologies, Amperion and other leading PLC/BPL companies have recently been awarded U.S. Patents that cite Stewart’s 1999 U.S. Patent (5,982,276) as prior art in their scientific efforts. However, this does not mean that Stewart is ahead once again. Many companies on Wall Street are looking at this new effort by Stewart to determine issues like uniqueness, time to market, costs and efficiencies. We can expect a through review by peers in the industry to provide insight on Stewart’s latest invention.
The Democrats in Congress want results on this energy crisis and perhaps Stewart has just what the Doctor Ordered. It Maybe not a “silver bullet”; but a tourniquet to stop the bleeding and improve the health of our nation’s utility infrastructure could make a revolutionary difference in our current electric grid reliability. The Republicans may see this is a benefit that they have bi-partisan interests. I look forward to a tangible solution and I believe that every American shares my expectation.
When I spoke with Mr. Stewart about some of my questions he seem forthcoming and willing to discuss in detail the benefits of his new U. S. Patent. “Look,” he said as he responded to my question of how “real is this invention”. “I have worked with some of the most well recognized companies in their respective fields to develop the systems that will be integrated into the PMI™ application. I am honored to work with the caliber of scientists and their teams to be able to provide this advanced transmission technology application. I look forward to the day that we have successfully reduced our dependence on oil, have alternative fuels, and have reduced our greenhouse gas emissions to a lesser degree.” That is all I have to say.”
I let the second interview related to this technology end there. I welcome the ability to speak with Mr. Stewart. He is articulate and kind with his approach to me, a non-technical person.
I also thought the comments from Mr. Keith Miller, formerly with Common Wealth Edison, raised some good points. After all, he comes from the utility industry. When I asked Mr. Miller whether the utility industry would embrace this technology, Miller said, “I believe that can and they will.” “We just can’t wait any longer for these types of improvements.”
More: Dallas Based Inventor Awarded U.S. Patent for Advanced Transmission Technology
Friday, November 24, 2006
Ambient Corp.`s patent for Inductive coupler for power line communications !!!
United States Patent Application 20060261920
Kind Code A1
Cern; Yehuda ; et al. November 23, 2006
Inductive coupler for power line communications
Abstract
There is provided an inductive coupler for coupling a signal to a conductor. The inductive coupler includes (a) a magnetic core having an aperture through which the conductor is routed, (b) a winding wound around a portion of the magnetic core, where the signal is coupled between the winding and the conductor via the magnetic core, and (c) an electrically insulating material situated between the winding and the magnetic core, having a hardness in a Hardness Type Shore A Durometer reading of degrees ranging from about 10 to about 100.
Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office
Pics of Ambient Coupler for Overhead Lines
Pics of Ambient Coupler for Underground Lines
Kind Code A1
Cern; Yehuda ; et al. November 23, 2006
Inductive coupler for power line communications
Abstract
There is provided an inductive coupler for coupling a signal to a conductor. The inductive coupler includes (a) a magnetic core having an aperture through which the conductor is routed, (b) a winding wound around a portion of the magnetic core, where the signal is coupled between the winding and the conductor via the magnetic core, and (c) an electrically insulating material situated between the winding and the magnetic core, having a hardness in a Hardness Type Shore A Durometer reading of degrees ranging from about 10 to about 100.
Source: United States Patent and Trademark Office
Pics of Ambient Coupler for Overhead Lines
Pics of Ambient Coupler for Underground Lines
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
AT&T and Current Communications Settle Dispute over Current`s plans to use power lines for broadband !!!
...
AT&T, Current settle utility pole dispute
Internet provider to notify phone company of installation plans
11:04 PM CST on Tuesday, November 21, 2006
By CRAYTON HARRISON / The Dallas Morning News
A dispute that threatened to delay a new kind of broadband Internet service in Texas has been resolved, putting the provider back on track toward launching service in the Dallas area.
AT&T Inc. said Tuesday that it has settled its argument with Current Communications Group Inc., which wants to offer high-speed Internet services over TXU Corp.'s power lines.
AT&T plans to drop a lawsuit against Current, and Current will withdraw a complaint against AT&T at the Texas Public Utility Commission, said AT&T spokesman Kerry Hibbs.
Current spokeswoman Melissa Kresse confirmed details of the settlement.
Earlier this month, AT&T obtained a temporary restraining order to prevent Current from installing equipment on AT&T- owned utility poles. San Antonio-based AT&T was concerned about the location of the equipment and whether it violated safety standards.
In the settlement, Current agreed to notify AT&T in advance which poles it planned to use, Mr. Hibbs said.
Current told AT&T it has installed equipment on 520 poles along 23 miles in the University Park and Highland Park areas, Mr. Hibbs said. Ms. Kresse said the company had no comment on those figures.
The settlement allows Current to work toward its goal of offering broadband over TXU's power lines.
Next month, the company expects to offer diagnostic services to TXU's electric delivery unit. It's not clear when Current plans to begin offering broadband access to consumers.
In its PUC complaint, Current had accused AT&T, which also offers broadband service, of stifling competition.
"This was never about competition," Mr. Hibbs said. "It really was about trespassing and breach of contract."
TXU's electric delivery unit and Current announced their plans for the broadband service in late 2005.
Privately held Current, based in Maryland, is paying for the enhancements to the grid. Dallas-based TXU is paying Current $150 million over 10 years and bought a small, undisclosed stake in the company in May.
Previous article: BPL Company -"Current Comm. had accused AT&T of trying to stifle competition"
AT&T, Current settle utility pole dispute
Internet provider to notify phone company of installation plans
11:04 PM CST on Tuesday, November 21, 2006
By CRAYTON HARRISON / The Dallas Morning News
A dispute that threatened to delay a new kind of broadband Internet service in Texas has been resolved, putting the provider back on track toward launching service in the Dallas area.
AT&T Inc. said Tuesday that it has settled its argument with Current Communications Group Inc., which wants to offer high-speed Internet services over TXU Corp.'s power lines.
AT&T plans to drop a lawsuit against Current, and Current will withdraw a complaint against AT&T at the Texas Public Utility Commission, said AT&T spokesman Kerry Hibbs.
Current spokeswoman Melissa Kresse confirmed details of the settlement.
Earlier this month, AT&T obtained a temporary restraining order to prevent Current from installing equipment on AT&T- owned utility poles. San Antonio-based AT&T was concerned about the location of the equipment and whether it violated safety standards.
In the settlement, Current agreed to notify AT&T in advance which poles it planned to use, Mr. Hibbs said.
Current told AT&T it has installed equipment on 520 poles along 23 miles in the University Park and Highland Park areas, Mr. Hibbs said. Ms. Kresse said the company had no comment on those figures.
The settlement allows Current to work toward its goal of offering broadband over TXU's power lines.
Next month, the company expects to offer diagnostic services to TXU's electric delivery unit. It's not clear when Current plans to begin offering broadband access to consumers.
In its PUC complaint, Current had accused AT&T, which also offers broadband service, of stifling competition.
"This was never about competition," Mr. Hibbs said. "It really was about trespassing and breach of contract."
TXU's electric delivery unit and Current announced their plans for the broadband service in late 2005.
Privately held Current, based in Maryland, is paying for the enhancements to the grid. Dallas-based TXU is paying Current $150 million over 10 years and bought a small, undisclosed stake in the company in May.
Previous article: BPL Company -"Current Comm. had accused AT&T of trying to stifle competition"
Friday, November 17, 2006
There Are over 170,000 Broadband Powerline (BPL) Subscribers Worldwide in 2006
2006 Global Broadband Powerlines - Moving into Home Management 3rd Edition
Paul Budde Communication Pty Ltd., July 2006, Pages: 121
Around the world, a large number of Broadband Powerline (BPL) trials have been underway for five years and longer, and BPL is performing well, when compared with most other technologies. The next step is to make the transition from the current trial status to the commercial arena, and this will require the establishment of an appropriate regulatory framework to support the technological developments that are occurring. General speaking, positive developments on that level are taking place around the globe. But, as with most new technologies, progress is slow and full standardisation is not expected until 2008. The key problem in 2006 remains the high equipment costs. While some relief is expected, large scale rollouts will not occur before full standardisation has taken place. Developments in Demand Side Management (DSM) services such as home automation and home management, are opening up new opportunities for BPL - such as a third broadband highway into the home.
This report provides information on the latest developments and trends in the BPL market, with a detailed analysis of the sector. It includes a SWOT analysis, business models, forecasts, an update on the regulatory environment and information on key projects and pilots taking place around the world.
Key Highlights:
Around 100 commercial BPL trials are currently taking place worldwide, with about a third of these under way in the United States, and the large majority originating in Europe.
There are over 170,000 BPL subscribers worldwide in 2006.
Utilities are in an ideal position to compete in the multi-utility broadband infrastructure sector.
Underground BPL is well and truly underway and is especially successful in apartment housing. In Hong Kong, a large number of households are now connected to BPL services, delivering between 8Mb/s and 10Mb/s broadband speed.
BPL in Canada is still in its early exploratory stages with few trials and commercial deployments, those mainly within hotels.
IPTV over BPL is on the way, and significant investments are being made by the vendors to develop technologies that will become commercially available in 2007.
There are around 26 major BPL players, including equipment makers, manufacturers, and integrators.
Wireless signals within buildings are generating more problems than anticipated. This puts the HomePlug solution, based on BPL, back in the picture.
The regulatory environment, trends favouring energy conservation and competition in power generation are pushing utilities toward DSM as a way to reduce costs, minimise investment in new power plants, and improve customer service.
DSM can represent savings of approximately $400 per household or more.
SOURCE: Research and Markets.COM
Paul Budde Communication Pty Ltd., July 2006, Pages: 121
Around the world, a large number of Broadband Powerline (BPL) trials have been underway for five years and longer, and BPL is performing well, when compared with most other technologies. The next step is to make the transition from the current trial status to the commercial arena, and this will require the establishment of an appropriate regulatory framework to support the technological developments that are occurring. General speaking, positive developments on that level are taking place around the globe. But, as with most new technologies, progress is slow and full standardisation is not expected until 2008. The key problem in 2006 remains the high equipment costs. While some relief is expected, large scale rollouts will not occur before full standardisation has taken place. Developments in Demand Side Management (DSM) services such as home automation and home management, are opening up new opportunities for BPL - such as a third broadband highway into the home.
This report provides information on the latest developments and trends in the BPL market, with a detailed analysis of the sector. It includes a SWOT analysis, business models, forecasts, an update on the regulatory environment and information on key projects and pilots taking place around the world.
Key Highlights:
Around 100 commercial BPL trials are currently taking place worldwide, with about a third of these under way in the United States, and the large majority originating in Europe.
There are over 170,000 BPL subscribers worldwide in 2006.
Utilities are in an ideal position to compete in the multi-utility broadband infrastructure sector.
Underground BPL is well and truly underway and is especially successful in apartment housing. In Hong Kong, a large number of households are now connected to BPL services, delivering between 8Mb/s and 10Mb/s broadband speed.
BPL in Canada is still in its early exploratory stages with few trials and commercial deployments, those mainly within hotels.
IPTV over BPL is on the way, and significant investments are being made by the vendors to develop technologies that will become commercially available in 2007.
There are around 26 major BPL players, including equipment makers, manufacturers, and integrators.
Wireless signals within buildings are generating more problems than anticipated. This puts the HomePlug solution, based on BPL, back in the picture.
The regulatory environment, trends favouring energy conservation and competition in power generation are pushing utilities toward DSM as a way to reduce costs, minimise investment in new power plants, and improve customer service.
DSM can represent savings of approximately $400 per household or more.
SOURCE: Research and Markets.COM
Thursday, November 16, 2006
DS2 WINS CES INNOVATIONS DESIGN AND ENGINEERING DISTINCTION for 200 Mbps powerline chip !!!
DS2 WINS CES INNOVATIONS DESIGN AND ENGINEERING DISTINCTION
Award recognizes outstanding engineering in 200 Mbps powerline chip
Valencia, SPAIN, 10th, November, 2006 – DS2 has been honored with an International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Award for its new In-Home Powerline Networking analog chip -- the DSS7800. This chip is the basis for development of more compact, high performance, cheaper 200 Mbps Powerline Communications products.
The DSS7800 IC is used in the analog front end of powerline modems for In-home PLC networking, and it will be the perfect complement to DS2´s digital chip family used in every home networking device: from ADSL or CATV residential gateways and video-phones for advanced communications to home theatre systems, personal video recorders and game stations -- in fact any device for consumer entertainment.
“This award demonstrates the need for high-speed Powerline networking in today’s homes, and our technology is leading through innovation and accessibility. We are proud that our products have been recognized as cutting-edge enabling technology for the global consumer electronics and home networking markets,” said Jorge Blasco, President and CEO of DS2.
The DSS7800 is fully compliant with the UPA (Universal Powerline Association) specifications. Developed for high-speed powerline communications applications, the DSS7800 is a classic implementation of Moore´s Law of delivering a high level of integration, reducing the number of components required and therefore the design and the development processes of UPA-certified modem manufacturers. With the benefit of the most advanced and cost-efficient Analog Front End, UPA certified manufacturers are a generation ahead in the high-speed powerline communications market.
The awards were judged by a pre-eminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the trade press. Winners are selected in various categories to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer electronics products and technologies.
The DSS7800 will be showcased along with other honorees at the Innovations Plus Booth #68747 in the Sands Convention Centre, and at the DS2 Booth # 22050, in the South Hall, at the upcoming 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), from January 8-11, 2007 in Las Vegas.
Award recognizes outstanding engineering in 200 Mbps powerline chip
Valencia, SPAIN, 10th, November, 2006 – DS2 has been honored with an International CES Innovations 2007 Design and Engineering Award for its new In-Home Powerline Networking analog chip -- the DSS7800. This chip is the basis for development of more compact, high performance, cheaper 200 Mbps Powerline Communications products.
The DSS7800 IC is used in the analog front end of powerline modems for In-home PLC networking, and it will be the perfect complement to DS2´s digital chip family used in every home networking device: from ADSL or CATV residential gateways and video-phones for advanced communications to home theatre systems, personal video recorders and game stations -- in fact any device for consumer entertainment.
“This award demonstrates the need for high-speed Powerline networking in today’s homes, and our technology is leading through innovation and accessibility. We are proud that our products have been recognized as cutting-edge enabling technology for the global consumer electronics and home networking markets,” said Jorge Blasco, President and CEO of DS2.
The DSS7800 is fully compliant with the UPA (Universal Powerline Association) specifications. Developed for high-speed powerline communications applications, the DSS7800 is a classic implementation of Moore´s Law of delivering a high level of integration, reducing the number of components required and therefore the design and the development processes of UPA-certified modem manufacturers. With the benefit of the most advanced and cost-efficient Analog Front End, UPA certified manufacturers are a generation ahead in the high-speed powerline communications market.
The awards were judged by a pre-eminent panel of independent industrial designers, engineers and members of the trade press. Winners are selected in various categories to honor outstanding design and engineering in cutting edge consumer electronics products and technologies.
The DSS7800 will be showcased along with other honorees at the Innovations Plus Booth #68747 in the Sands Convention Centre, and at the DS2 Booth # 22050, in the South Hall, at the upcoming 2007 Consumer Electronics Show (CES), from January 8-11, 2007 in Las Vegas.
Power Companies Seek More Juice
By Mark Rockwell
November 15, 2006
WASHINGTON—Power companies are still looking to get a slice of 700 MHz spectrum for their internal use in upcoming auctions for guardband spectrum, despite moves by the FCC to open up new communications capabilities based on power lines.
The FCC voted Nov. 3 to classify broadband over powerline (BPL) technology as an information service, which puts the technology in the same protected space as other new or emerging services, such as DSL and cable Internet access, and accelerates its distribution and sale. Those technologies aren't subject to the old telephone carrier service and rate regulations, and they enjoy more of a non-regulated status as the commission looks to foster them as competitive alternatives to traditional wireline services.
The new classification can help powerline providers bring another broadband access competitor to the consumer Internet access market. BPLs use the power grid to transmit signals, and can be deployed as far as a power company's lines reach – directly into homes.
"The commission's broadband statistics show that subscribers to BPL Internet access services, although few in number overall, increased by nearly 200 percent in 2005. These services hold great promise for consumers," says FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
IN-HOUSE USE Despite the service's competitive potential, the power industry is still looking to the FCC's next spectrum auction to see if it can't line up more 700 MHz spectrum to use for power companies' internal land mobile radio networks. Power companies intend to aim developing BPL services primarily at the consumer Internet access market, not at their internal communications infrastructure, say industry officials.
The United Telecom Council (UTC), a group that represents power companies in Washington, has been looking to the FCC's preparations to sell 700 MHz bandwidth, probably next year. Power companies still need spectrum, says Brett Kilbourne, director of regulatory affairs and associate counsel at UTC.
It won't, however, solve power companies' needs for additional 700 MHz guardband wireless spectrum to use for internal communications at the UTC. The FCC asked the UTC and Motorola in September for ideas on how to re-allocate the 700 MHz guardband channels that border the main 700 MHz B and C blocks that the FCC is preparing to auction off. It wanted to know whether the spectrum could be used to support "critical infrastructure" applications such as power company networks. The power industry hasn't been allocated any spectrum for about 10 years, Kilbourne notes.
WEIGHING IN The FCC's inquiry into the re-allocation of 700 MHz guardband spectrum has generated response from those hoping to use it for public safety or other applications. Commercial carriers also are looking at the spectrum as a way to provide more extensive wireless coverage. Paul Garnett, director of regulatory policy at CTIA, says the FCC needs to resolve whether the commercial spectrum licensees would be required to provide more interference protection to the guardbands, which could lessen the potential of the spectrum in the 700 MHz B and C block auctions.
Broadband-Today.com
November 15, 2006
WASHINGTON—Power companies are still looking to get a slice of 700 MHz spectrum for their internal use in upcoming auctions for guardband spectrum, despite moves by the FCC to open up new communications capabilities based on power lines.
The FCC voted Nov. 3 to classify broadband over powerline (BPL) technology as an information service, which puts the technology in the same protected space as other new or emerging services, such as DSL and cable Internet access, and accelerates its distribution and sale. Those technologies aren't subject to the old telephone carrier service and rate regulations, and they enjoy more of a non-regulated status as the commission looks to foster them as competitive alternatives to traditional wireline services.
The new classification can help powerline providers bring another broadband access competitor to the consumer Internet access market. BPLs use the power grid to transmit signals, and can be deployed as far as a power company's lines reach – directly into homes.
"The commission's broadband statistics show that subscribers to BPL Internet access services, although few in number overall, increased by nearly 200 percent in 2005. These services hold great promise for consumers," says FCC Chairman Kevin Martin.
IN-HOUSE USE Despite the service's competitive potential, the power industry is still looking to the FCC's next spectrum auction to see if it can't line up more 700 MHz spectrum to use for power companies' internal land mobile radio networks. Power companies intend to aim developing BPL services primarily at the consumer Internet access market, not at their internal communications infrastructure, say industry officials.
The United Telecom Council (UTC), a group that represents power companies in Washington, has been looking to the FCC's preparations to sell 700 MHz bandwidth, probably next year. Power companies still need spectrum, says Brett Kilbourne, director of regulatory affairs and associate counsel at UTC.
It won't, however, solve power companies' needs for additional 700 MHz guardband wireless spectrum to use for internal communications at the UTC. The FCC asked the UTC and Motorola in September for ideas on how to re-allocate the 700 MHz guardband channels that border the main 700 MHz B and C blocks that the FCC is preparing to auction off. It wanted to know whether the spectrum could be used to support "critical infrastructure" applications such as power company networks. The power industry hasn't been allocated any spectrum for about 10 years, Kilbourne notes.
WEIGHING IN The FCC's inquiry into the re-allocation of 700 MHz guardband spectrum has generated response from those hoping to use it for public safety or other applications. Commercial carriers also are looking at the spectrum as a way to provide more extensive wireless coverage. Paul Garnett, director of regulatory policy at CTIA, says the FCC needs to resolve whether the commercial spectrum licensees would be required to provide more interference protection to the guardbands, which could lessen the potential of the spectrum in the 700 MHz B and C block auctions.
Broadband-Today.com
Developing world lags behind as UN dubs broadband new "utility"
by William French
Nov. 16, 2006
GENEVA (AFP) - Broadband internet access is becoming so vital for businesses that it can be seen as a new utility comparable to water and electricity, the UN's Conference on Trade and Development has said in a report.
The growing importance of high speed Internet access is "disturbing news" for the developing world where broadband access is scarce, because technology is exerting an ever greater influence on global business trends, UNCTAD warned.
"It's absolutely necessary for countries because without broadband, it is difficult to have e-business," said Genevieve Feraud, one of the authors of the the Information Economy Report 2006.
"Broadband is so important that we call it a utility which is just as necessary as water, electricity," she told journalists.
Developing countries also often lack the necessary infrastructure to provide the service at a reasonable price, the report said.
UNCTAD said developing nations are catching up in the number of overall Internet users,
In 2005, developing countries accounted for 43.0 percent of the world's 1.02 billion users, compared to 53.0 percent for developed nations and 5.0 percent for transition economies in ex-Soviet states and southeast Europe.
However, developing countries are lagging far behind in terms of the proportion of their inhabitants who use Internet, with an average penetration rate of just 8.5 users per 100 inhabitants compared to 54.4 per 100 in industralised economies.
The UN agency noted the difficulty of obtaining comprehensive data on information technology especially in poor countries.
Of 151 developing countries covered by the report, only 71 submitted data on the subject.
Forty-eight of those 71 countries, nearly two-thirds, said that broadband penetration rates were under 1.0 percent.
In fast-growing China, the penetration rate was only 2.9 percent, according to the report, although it ranks second only to the United States in terms of the number of Internet users.
UNCTAD said effective government action was required to bridge this digital divide, and to help developing countries expand their information and communication technology (ICT) networks.
A similar call has been made many times over recent years by the UN's International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
Forty-four percent of developing and transition countries have plans for telecoms expansion, while a further 20 percent are currently devising them, the UNCTAD report said.
However it was not just enough for governments to develop these strategies. They also need to monitor their implementation to ensure they are as effective as possible, the UN body concluded.
Nov. 16, 2006
GENEVA (AFP) - Broadband internet access is becoming so vital for businesses that it can be seen as a new utility comparable to water and electricity, the UN's Conference on Trade and Development has said in a report.
The growing importance of high speed Internet access is "disturbing news" for the developing world where broadband access is scarce, because technology is exerting an ever greater influence on global business trends, UNCTAD warned.
"It's absolutely necessary for countries because without broadband, it is difficult to have e-business," said Genevieve Feraud, one of the authors of the the Information Economy Report 2006.
"Broadband is so important that we call it a utility which is just as necessary as water, electricity," she told journalists.
Developing countries also often lack the necessary infrastructure to provide the service at a reasonable price, the report said.
UNCTAD said developing nations are catching up in the number of overall Internet users,
In 2005, developing countries accounted for 43.0 percent of the world's 1.02 billion users, compared to 53.0 percent for developed nations and 5.0 percent for transition economies in ex-Soviet states and southeast Europe.
However, developing countries are lagging far behind in terms of the proportion of their inhabitants who use Internet, with an average penetration rate of just 8.5 users per 100 inhabitants compared to 54.4 per 100 in industralised economies.
The UN agency noted the difficulty of obtaining comprehensive data on information technology especially in poor countries.
Of 151 developing countries covered by the report, only 71 submitted data on the subject.
Forty-eight of those 71 countries, nearly two-thirds, said that broadband penetration rates were under 1.0 percent.
In fast-growing China, the penetration rate was only 2.9 percent, according to the report, although it ranks second only to the United States in terms of the number of Internet users.
UNCTAD said effective government action was required to bridge this digital divide, and to help developing countries expand their information and communication technology (ICT) networks.
A similar call has been made many times over recent years by the UN's International Telecommunications Union (ITU).
Forty-four percent of developing and transition countries have plans for telecoms expansion, while a further 20 percent are currently devising them, the UNCTAD report said.
However it was not just enough for governments to develop these strategies. They also need to monitor their implementation to ensure they are as effective as possible, the UN body concluded.
Tuesday, November 14, 2006
Internet access via electricity lines coming to Maryland
Volume: 5 Number: 720_monday November 13, 2006
Getting Connected
Internet access via electricity lines coming to Maryland
By JOE BACCHUS
Daily Record Business Writer
Needs subscription: The Daily Record
Getting Connected
Internet access via electricity lines coming to Maryland
By JOE BACCHUS
Daily Record Business Writer
Needs subscription: The Daily Record
Monday, November 13, 2006
Panasonic Introduces 'HD-PLC' Ethernet Adaptor, Realizing 190 Mbps High-speed Data Transmission over Existing Home Power Lines
Osaka, Japan, Nov 13, 2006 - (JCN Newswire) - Panasonic, the leading brand for which Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. is known, introduced today a power line Ethernet adaptor that can create a powerful, high-speed local area network anywhere in the home by simply plugging into a wall outlet.
The BL-PA100 adaptor, available in Japan on December 9, uses "HD-PLC"(*1) technology to achieve physical layer data rates of 190 Mbps(*2) and seamless and secure communication that can coexist with other electric or radio devices used in the home.
As the number of broadband connections in homes increases - reaching 23 million Japanese households at the end of 2005(*3) - there is a demand for greater ease in setting up devices and establishing networks as well as higher security.
The new Panasonic compact adaptor, measuring approximately 121 x 40 x 70 mm, provides the solution for these concerns and needs. As the adaptor uses existing power lines, it does not require room-to-room cabling to establish a local area network. Unlike wireless network, the "HD-PLC" network is stable and robust and can seamlessly transmit a large amount of data such as high-definition video and streaming music content. With its AES 128-bit encryption, the BL-PA100 adaptor also provides the same level of protection given by most Internet banking and shopping sites.
Panasonic has prepared a starter kit (BL-PA100KT) for ease of installation. The kit
includes two preconfigured BL-PA100 adaptors - one is used as the Master and the other as a Terminal adaptor. The kit allows the average person to easily establish a secure network without using a PC. Simply plug in the Master adaptor into a power outlet and connect a broadband router/modem to the adaptor. Then plug in the Terminal adaptor to a wall outlet in another room where you want to access the network. PC and other network "clients," such as Panasonic IP network camera, can be connected to the Ethernet port of the Terminal adaptor.
Now, each network client will be able to access the Internet as well as communicate with each other.
Adding another Terminal adaptor is also simple. Plug a second Terminal adaptor, which is sold individually, to the same power outlet as the Master and press the "Setup" buttons on both units simultaneously to register the Terminal. Once registered, the adaptor can be placed in power outlets anywhere in the house. Also, the clients can be connected to any Terminal adaptors in the house to communicate on the network. A total of 15 Terminal adaptors can be connected to the system.
Mr. Kazuyoshi Fujiyoshi, President of Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd., said,
"Panasonic aims to realize a 'ubiquitous network society' where users can access their network comfortably. Our new adaptor eliminates unsightly wiring from the living room, study, bedroom and other rooms in the house and gives the not-so-technically-inclined person the power to instantly set up and enjoy benefits of secure home LAN. Panasonic will continue to expand the 'HD-PLC' product line to offer a choice to fulfill the varied needs of customers."
Panasonic also announced today availability of "HD-PLC" module samples for other
electronics manufacturers. Using Panasonic's own technology for embedding passive and active components into the substrate without damages, the MMDPMS150 series module takes up 40 per cent less space than conventional modules with similar functionality. As this compact module already incorporates such analog components as noise reduction filters, the manufacturers can easily develop products with high-speed PLC function. Panasonic plans to start sample shipments on December 1.
*1) "HD-PLC" is a name of the high-speed power line communication specifications
Panasonic is promoting. "HD-PLC" is a trademark.
*2) This is the theoretical maximum data transmission speed of the "HD-PLC"
specifications. Actual data rates are 80 Mbps for UDP (measured using SmartBitsR
network performance analyzer) and 55 Mbps for TCP data transmission (achieved on Linux-based FTP server).
*3) Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
Japancorp.net
The BL-PA100 adaptor, available in Japan on December 9, uses "HD-PLC"(*1) technology to achieve physical layer data rates of 190 Mbps(*2) and seamless and secure communication that can coexist with other electric or radio devices used in the home.
As the number of broadband connections in homes increases - reaching 23 million Japanese households at the end of 2005(*3) - there is a demand for greater ease in setting up devices and establishing networks as well as higher security.
The new Panasonic compact adaptor, measuring approximately 121 x 40 x 70 mm, provides the solution for these concerns and needs. As the adaptor uses existing power lines, it does not require room-to-room cabling to establish a local area network. Unlike wireless network, the "HD-PLC" network is stable and robust and can seamlessly transmit a large amount of data such as high-definition video and streaming music content. With its AES 128-bit encryption, the BL-PA100 adaptor also provides the same level of protection given by most Internet banking and shopping sites.
Panasonic has prepared a starter kit (BL-PA100KT) for ease of installation. The kit
includes two preconfigured BL-PA100 adaptors - one is used as the Master and the other as a Terminal adaptor. The kit allows the average person to easily establish a secure network without using a PC. Simply plug in the Master adaptor into a power outlet and connect a broadband router/modem to the adaptor. Then plug in the Terminal adaptor to a wall outlet in another room where you want to access the network. PC and other network "clients," such as Panasonic IP network camera, can be connected to the Ethernet port of the Terminal adaptor.
Now, each network client will be able to access the Internet as well as communicate with each other.
Adding another Terminal adaptor is also simple. Plug a second Terminal adaptor, which is sold individually, to the same power outlet as the Master and press the "Setup" buttons on both units simultaneously to register the Terminal. Once registered, the adaptor can be placed in power outlets anywhere in the house. Also, the clients can be connected to any Terminal adaptors in the house to communicate on the network. A total of 15 Terminal adaptors can be connected to the system.
Mr. Kazuyoshi Fujiyoshi, President of Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd., said,
"Panasonic aims to realize a 'ubiquitous network society' where users can access their network comfortably. Our new adaptor eliminates unsightly wiring from the living room, study, bedroom and other rooms in the house and gives the not-so-technically-inclined person the power to instantly set up and enjoy benefits of secure home LAN. Panasonic will continue to expand the 'HD-PLC' product line to offer a choice to fulfill the varied needs of customers."
Panasonic also announced today availability of "HD-PLC" module samples for other
electronics manufacturers. Using Panasonic's own technology for embedding passive and active components into the substrate without damages, the MMDPMS150 series module takes up 40 per cent less space than conventional modules with similar functionality. As this compact module already incorporates such analog components as noise reduction filters, the manufacturers can easily develop products with high-speed PLC function. Panasonic plans to start sample shipments on December 1.
*1) "HD-PLC" is a name of the high-speed power line communication specifications
Panasonic is promoting. "HD-PLC" is a trademark.
*2) This is the theoretical maximum data transmission speed of the "HD-PLC"
specifications. Actual data rates are 80 Mbps for UDP (measured using SmartBitsR
network performance analyzer) and 55 Mbps for TCP data transmission (achieved on Linux-based FTP server).
*3) Source: Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.
Japancorp.net
Saturday, November 11, 2006
America's broadband Internet disconnect needs new strategy
2006/11/12
By Michael J. Copps Special to The Washington Post
America's record in expanding broadband communication is so poor that it should be viewed as an outrage by every consumer and businessperson in the country. Too few of us have broadband connections, and those who do pay too much for service that is too slow. It's hurting our economy, and things are only going to get worse if we don't do something about it.
The United States is 15th in the world in broadband penetration, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). When the ITU measured a broader "digital opportunity" index (considering price and other factors) we were 21st -- right after Estonia. Asian and European customers get home connections of 25 to 100 megabits per second (fast enough to stream high-definition video). Here, we pay almost twice as much for connections that are 1/20th the speed.
How have we fallen so far behind? Through lack of competition. As the Congressional Research Service puts it, U.S. consumers face a "cable and telephone broadband duopoly." And that's more like a best-case scenario: Many households are hostage to a single broadband provider, and nearly one-tenth have no broadband provider at all.
For businesses, it's just as bad. The telecom merger spree has left many office buildings with a single provider -- leading to annual estimated overcharges of US$8 billion. Our broadband infrastructure should be a reason companies want to do business in the United States, not just another reason to go offshore.
The stakes for our economy could not be higher. Our broadband failure places a ceiling over the productivity of far too much of the country. Should we expect small-town businesses to enter the digital economy, and students to enter the digital classroom, via a dial-up connection? The Internet can bring life-changing opportunities to those who don't live in large cities, but only if it is available and affordable.
Even in cities and suburbs, the fact that broadband is too slow, too expensive and too poorly subscribed is a significant drag on our economy. Some experts estimate that universal broadband adoption would add US$500 billion to the U.S. economy and create 1.2 million jobs.
Future generations will ultimately pay for our missteps. Albert Einstein reportedly quipped that compound interest is the most powerful force in the universe. Investment in infrastructure is how a nation harnesses this awesome multiplier. Consider that 80 percent of the growth in fiber-to-the-home (super-high-speed) subscribers last year was not in the United States but in Japan. One does not need Einstein's grasp of mathematics to understand that we cannot keep pace on our current trajectory.
I don't claim to have all the answers. But there are concrete steps government must take now to reverse our slide into communications mediocrity.
To begin with, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) -- of which I am a member -- must face up to the problem. Today the agency's reports seem designed mostly to obscure the fact that we are falling behind the rest of the world. The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.
The FCC needs to start working to lower prices and introduce competition. We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize "smart radios" that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging "third pipe" technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines. And we should recommend steps to Congress to ensure the FCC's ability to implement long-term solutions.
We need a broadband strategy for America. Other industrialized countries have developed national broadband strategies. In the United States we have a campaign promise of universal broadband access by 2007, but no strategy for getting there. With less than two months to go, we aren't even within shouting distance.
The solution to our broadband crisis must ultimately involve public-private initiatives like those that built the railroad, highway and telephone systems. Combined with an overhaul of our universal service system to make sure it is focusing on the needs of broadband, this represents our best chance at recapturing our leadership position.
It seems plain enough that our present policies aren't working. Inattention and muddling through may be the path of least resistance, but they should not and must not represent our national policy on this critical issue.
Copps is a Democratic member of the FCC
Source: ChinaPost.com
By Michael J. Copps Special to The Washington Post
America's record in expanding broadband communication is so poor that it should be viewed as an outrage by every consumer and businessperson in the country. Too few of us have broadband connections, and those who do pay too much for service that is too slow. It's hurting our economy, and things are only going to get worse if we don't do something about it.
The United States is 15th in the world in broadband penetration, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). When the ITU measured a broader "digital opportunity" index (considering price and other factors) we were 21st -- right after Estonia. Asian and European customers get home connections of 25 to 100 megabits per second (fast enough to stream high-definition video). Here, we pay almost twice as much for connections that are 1/20th the speed.
How have we fallen so far behind? Through lack of competition. As the Congressional Research Service puts it, U.S. consumers face a "cable and telephone broadband duopoly." And that's more like a best-case scenario: Many households are hostage to a single broadband provider, and nearly one-tenth have no broadband provider at all.
For businesses, it's just as bad. The telecom merger spree has left many office buildings with a single provider -- leading to annual estimated overcharges of US$8 billion. Our broadband infrastructure should be a reason companies want to do business in the United States, not just another reason to go offshore.
The stakes for our economy could not be higher. Our broadband failure places a ceiling over the productivity of far too much of the country. Should we expect small-town businesses to enter the digital economy, and students to enter the digital classroom, via a dial-up connection? The Internet can bring life-changing opportunities to those who don't live in large cities, but only if it is available and affordable.
Even in cities and suburbs, the fact that broadband is too slow, too expensive and too poorly subscribed is a significant drag on our economy. Some experts estimate that universal broadband adoption would add US$500 billion to the U.S. economy and create 1.2 million jobs.
Future generations will ultimately pay for our missteps. Albert Einstein reportedly quipped that compound interest is the most powerful force in the universe. Investment in infrastructure is how a nation harnesses this awesome multiplier. Consider that 80 percent of the growth in fiber-to-the-home (super-high-speed) subscribers last year was not in the United States but in Japan. One does not need Einstein's grasp of mathematics to understand that we cannot keep pace on our current trajectory.
I don't claim to have all the answers. But there are concrete steps government must take now to reverse our slide into communications mediocrity.
To begin with, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) -- of which I am a member -- must face up to the problem. Today the agency's reports seem designed mostly to obscure the fact that we are falling behind the rest of the world. The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.
The FCC needs to start working to lower prices and introduce competition. We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize "smart radios" that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging "third pipe" technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines. And we should recommend steps to Congress to ensure the FCC's ability to implement long-term solutions.
We need a broadband strategy for America. Other industrialized countries have developed national broadband strategies. In the United States we have a campaign promise of universal broadband access by 2007, but no strategy for getting there. With less than two months to go, we aren't even within shouting distance.
The solution to our broadband crisis must ultimately involve public-private initiatives like those that built the railroad, highway and telephone systems. Combined with an overhaul of our universal service system to make sure it is focusing on the needs of broadband, this represents our best chance at recapturing our leadership position.
It seems plain enough that our present policies aren't working. Inattention and muddling through may be the path of least resistance, but they should not and must not represent our national policy on this critical issue.
Copps is a Democratic member of the FCC
Source: ChinaPost.com
In India: IBM Offers Broadband, VoIP Over Power Line
By: Priyanka Pradhan | Nov 10,2006
IBM has introduced a new technology in India, which combines broadband internet, VoIP and electricity via a single line. The technology, called Broadband over Power Line(BPL), does not require any additional infrastucture, because it offers speedier internet access and better quality of VoIP via the already exisiting power lines, so users will be able to pay a single bill for all three services. IBM is currently in talks with various utility providers to launch the system in India, within the next few months.
According to IBM Chief Architect of Advanced Network Solutions, Charlie Arteaga, BPL technology will drastically cut costs for the utility provider, and in turn, end consumers may see reduced bills for electricity as well as broadband connection. He said that even though the initial cost of the modem-like device, required for the BPL technology will cost around USD 100, it is a one- time, payment for smaller bills in future.
He added that the BPL Project is a part of the 'Intelligent Grid Network' which involves advanced technology to remotely monitor power meters, and individual consumption, so end consumers wont have to bother about low voltage problems, transformers or power theft anymore.
Reji Kumar, Head of IBM's Enery and Uilities Communications sector said, "With the BPL technology, we aim to bridge the technology gap between rural and urban India. Many rural areas have poor, or no Internet access but this technology will change this. Even if individual rural household may not be able to afford the required modem-like device, the technology will be invaluable for schools, government hospitals, and Internet kiosks for e-governance in rural areas." He added that, in time, with growing demand, the cost of the technology will invariably climb down and if utility providers offer bundled services at the local level, the BPL will soon be an affordable option in rural as well as urban homes.
Source: Tech2.com India
IBM has introduced a new technology in India, which combines broadband internet, VoIP and electricity via a single line. The technology, called Broadband over Power Line(BPL), does not require any additional infrastucture, because it offers speedier internet access and better quality of VoIP via the already exisiting power lines, so users will be able to pay a single bill for all three services. IBM is currently in talks with various utility providers to launch the system in India, within the next few months.
According to IBM Chief Architect of Advanced Network Solutions, Charlie Arteaga, BPL technology will drastically cut costs for the utility provider, and in turn, end consumers may see reduced bills for electricity as well as broadband connection. He said that even though the initial cost of the modem-like device, required for the BPL technology will cost around USD 100, it is a one- time, payment for smaller bills in future.
He added that the BPL Project is a part of the 'Intelligent Grid Network' which involves advanced technology to remotely monitor power meters, and individual consumption, so end consumers wont have to bother about low voltage problems, transformers or power theft anymore.
Reji Kumar, Head of IBM's Enery and Uilities Communications sector said, "With the BPL technology, we aim to bridge the technology gap between rural and urban India. Many rural areas have poor, or no Internet access but this technology will change this. Even if individual rural household may not be able to afford the required modem-like device, the technology will be invaluable for schools, government hospitals, and Internet kiosks for e-governance in rural areas." He added that, in time, with growing demand, the cost of the technology will invariably climb down and if utility providers offer bundled services at the local level, the BPL will soon be an affordable option in rural as well as urban homes.
Source: Tech2.com India
Thursday, November 09, 2006
IBM to fuse electric, telephone lines
NEVIN JOHN
TIMES NEWS NETWORK[ WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 08, 2006 01:28:18 AM]
MUMBAI: This may be the final word on convergence technology. For the first time, electricity, internet and phone are being made available on a single line to the Indian consumer.
IBM Global is set to start a pilot project in India to launch its broadband over power line (BPL) system in December. IBM is in talks with state electricity boards and power utilities for the project implementation. Sources said the Uttar Pradesh government is keen to implement a pilot project in the rural areas.
By increasing the grid observability, the BPL system can deliver stable and quality electricity, apart from internet and telecom facilities, through the same line.
Gary A Cohen, general manager, global communications, IBM, confirmed that his company is launching a pilot project in India soon. IBM has introduced this technology in countries like Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium and the US. Besides India, it is planning to introduce the technology in China too.
“Electric transmission and distribution utilities have come under increasing pressure to improve efficiency and generate new revenue. To change this situation, IBM is introducing a solution for the electrical power industry, which can take care of the telecommunications service also,” said Mr Cohen.
Advance meter management, asset monitoring and management and mobile work force management can be done with BPL. IBM’s global software building team is working with the energy & utilities division for the Indian project.
BPL will make the electricity network intelligent and minimise transmission and distribution loss. BPL will help avoid power theft and transformer problems.
TIMES NEWS NETWORK[ WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 08, 2006 01:28:18 AM]
MUMBAI: This may be the final word on convergence technology. For the first time, electricity, internet and phone are being made available on a single line to the Indian consumer.
IBM Global is set to start a pilot project in India to launch its broadband over power line (BPL) system in December. IBM is in talks with state electricity boards and power utilities for the project implementation. Sources said the Uttar Pradesh government is keen to implement a pilot project in the rural areas.
By increasing the grid observability, the BPL system can deliver stable and quality electricity, apart from internet and telecom facilities, through the same line.
Gary A Cohen, general manager, global communications, IBM, confirmed that his company is launching a pilot project in India soon. IBM has introduced this technology in countries like Italy, Germany, Spain, Belgium and the US. Besides India, it is planning to introduce the technology in China too.
“Electric transmission and distribution utilities have come under increasing pressure to improve efficiency and generate new revenue. To change this situation, IBM is introducing a solution for the electrical power industry, which can take care of the telecommunications service also,” said Mr Cohen.
Advance meter management, asset monitoring and management and mobile work force management can be done with BPL. IBM’s global software building team is working with the energy & utilities division for the Indian project.
BPL will make the electricity network intelligent and minimise transmission and distribution loss. BPL will help avoid power theft and transformer problems.
US Lags in All Measures of Broadband, FCC's Copps Says
By Glenn Fleishman
One of two Democrats on the FCC board, Copps says we’re laughably behind: Estonia, a forward-thinking country, beats us in the “digital opportunity” index at position 20, and we’re 15th worldwide in overall broadband penetration. Copps nails one of the ways in which the FCC avoids facing reality: “The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.” I’ve complained about this before in the debate over whether municipalities have any role in owning, fostering, or discouraging city-wide networks. Opponents to certain forms of municipal involvement will say things like DSL penetration in the US is over 95 percent. But they’re using the one-line-per-Zip-code measure.
He issues a call to arms, which might stick with the shift in control of the House and apparently Senate: “We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize “smart radios” that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging “third pipe” technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines.”
One of two Democrats on the FCC board, Copps says we’re laughably behind: Estonia, a forward-thinking country, beats us in the “digital opportunity” index at position 20, and we’re 15th worldwide in overall broadband penetration. Copps nails one of the ways in which the FCC avoids facing reality: “The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.” I’ve complained about this before in the debate over whether municipalities have any role in owning, fostering, or discouraging city-wide networks. Opponents to certain forms of municipal involvement will say things like DSL penetration in the US is over 95 percent. But they’re using the one-line-per-Zip-code measure.
He issues a call to arms, which might stick with the shift in control of the House and apparently Senate: “We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize “smart radios” that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging “third pipe” technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines.”
Wednesday, November 08, 2006
DS2 to supply the Japanese market with HDTV-quality high speed Power Line Communication chips !!!
Leading silicon supplier will meet the new regulatory limits and measurement methods set for High-Speed Power Line Communications.
Tokyo, 07, November, 2006 – DS2 today announced that it is to serve the domestic Japanese market with silicon that meets the EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) requirements for PLC applications recently approved by the Japanese Government. DS2 is the leading provider of high speed silicon for Powerline communications (PLC) applications, including triple play home networking, currently sold to service providers and into retail stores through leading modem manufacturers worldwide,. The new Japanese regulation is more stringent than similar regulations in force in Europe and the US. The permitted signal level in the 2 Mhz to 15 MHz range is 5 times smaller in Japan and in the 15 to 30 MHz range it is 16 time smaller. These new EMC requirements will put some PLC silicon suppliers in a difficult position. To meet these requirements they will have to reduce throughput to such levels that they will be unable to deliver video.
Ramon Garcia, Director of DS2´s Asian office in Tokyo, states that “DS2 will be able to guarantee a level of throughput that will deliver HDTV while meeting the new requirements. Designed with multimedia in mind from the start, and having unique features such as programmable notch filtering, DS2 has vast overseas experience. Recent developments to meet the Japanese domestic market requirements have proved that DS2 Silicon will be able to clear the stringent limits while maintaining high speeds”.
Telecommunication operators in Hong Kong, Spain, Belgium, Italy, Portugal and other overseas markets have compared and selected DS2 technology for their triple play commercial services due to its unqiue features such as high throughput, QoS, remote manageability, repeating function and wide area coverage. Modem manufacturers including Comtrend, Corinex, Netgear, Pirelli, Telsey and others using DS2 technology have succeeded in all continents and have been the first to develop and sell product for multimedia home networking in retail stores.
About DS2
DS2 (www.ds2.es) is the world's leading supplier of the 200 Mbps technology that enables home networking and broadband access over power line, coaxial cable, and telephone wire. DS2 pioneered the industry with the introduction of its 200 Mbps chipsets, creating the fastest and highest performance solution for simultaneous data, digital audio and high-definition video transmission. Two pre-eminent industry groups, the Universal Powerline Association -www.upaplc.org - (UPA) and the European Union consortium OPERA (Open PLC European Research Alliance) have adopted DS2 technology in support of multi-vendor standard certified product. .
Smart Grid Attracts Test & Measurement Supplier for Developing Technology to Bring More Reliable Delivery of Electricity and Broadband Over PowerLines
Wednesday November 8, 8:43 am ET
PITTSBURGH, Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- BPL Global(TM), Ltd., an international leader in "Smart Grid" technologies and broadband services over power lines (BPL), announced today that Tollgrade Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq: TLGD - News) has joined in the Series C investment round for BPL Global. This investment is part of the Series C funding BPL Global announced in late September, totaling $25M and led by a consortium of Kuwaiti-based companies including Al-Deera Holding (KSE: ALDEERA), International Financial Advisors (KSE: IFA), Kuwait Holding Company, and International Finance Company (KSE: IFC). A minor investor in the round, Tollgrade Communications is a leading supplier of network service assurance products for the global cable and telecom industries.
Improving reliability of electricity through smart grid technologies and managing the quality of broadband communications over power lines are attractive emerging markets. Given our presence in the service assurance marketplace for cable and telephone companies, this investment makes great sense for Tollgrade," said Mark B. Peterson, President and Chief Executive Officer for Tollgrade Communications.
"As a global leader in network test and measurement products, Tollgrade Communications is a much-welcomed new strategic investor in BPL Global," said Keith Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer, BPL Global.
BPL Global forms joint ventures with utilities and Internet service providers (ISPs), providing data, voice and eventually video broadband services over power lines to multi-occupancy buildings and consumers, while ensuring heightened reliability and efficiency of utility grids through Smart Grid initiatives. Smart Grid applications include demand and load management; outage management; grid monitoring and device control; as well as energy theft prevention.
Source: BPL Global.net
PITTSBURGH, Nov. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- BPL Global(TM), Ltd., an international leader in "Smart Grid" technologies and broadband services over power lines (BPL), announced today that Tollgrade Communications, Inc. (Nasdaq: TLGD - News) has joined in the Series C investment round for BPL Global. This investment is part of the Series C funding BPL Global announced in late September, totaling $25M and led by a consortium of Kuwaiti-based companies including Al-Deera Holding (KSE: ALDEERA), International Financial Advisors (KSE: IFA), Kuwait Holding Company, and International Finance Company (KSE: IFC). A minor investor in the round, Tollgrade Communications is a leading supplier of network service assurance products for the global cable and telecom industries.
Improving reliability of electricity through smart grid technologies and managing the quality of broadband communications over power lines are attractive emerging markets. Given our presence in the service assurance marketplace for cable and telephone companies, this investment makes great sense for Tollgrade," said Mark B. Peterson, President and Chief Executive Officer for Tollgrade Communications.
"As a global leader in network test and measurement products, Tollgrade Communications is a much-welcomed new strategic investor in BPL Global," said Keith Schaefer, Chief Executive Officer, BPL Global.
BPL Global forms joint ventures with utilities and Internet service providers (ISPs), providing data, voice and eventually video broadband services over power lines to multi-occupancy buildings and consumers, while ensuring heightened reliability and efficiency of utility grids through Smart Grid initiatives. Smart Grid applications include demand and load management; outage management; grid monitoring and device control; as well as energy theft prevention.
Source: BPL Global.net
America's Internet Disconnect
By Michael J. Copps
Wednesday, November 8, 2006; Page A27
America's record in expanding broadband communication is so poor that it should be viewed as an outrage by every consumer and businessperson in the country. Too few of us have broadband connections, and those who do pay too much for service that is too slow. It's hurting our economy, and things are only going to get worse if we don't do something about it.
The United States is 15th in the world in broadband penetration, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). When the ITU measured a broader "digital opportunity" index (considering price and other factors) we were 21st -- right after Estonia. Asian and European customers get home connections of 25 to 100 megabits per second (fast enough to stream high-definition video). Here, we pay almost twice as much for connections that are one-twentieth the speed.
How have we fallen so far behind? Through lack of competition. As the Congressional Research Service puts it, U.S. consumers face a "cable and telephone broadband duopoly." And that's more like a best-case scenario: Many households are hostage to a single broadband provider, and nearly one-tenth have no broadband provider at all.
For businesses, it's just as bad. The telecom merger spree has left many office buildings with a single provider -- leading to annual estimated overcharges of $8 billion. Our broadband infrastructure should be a reason companies want to do business in the United States, not just another reason to go offshore.
The stakes for our economy could not be higher. Our broadband failure places a ceiling over the productivity of far too much of the country. Should we expect small-town businesses to enter the digital economy, and students to enter the digital classroom, via a dial-up connection? The Internet can bring life-changing opportunities to those who don't live in large cities, but only if it is available and affordable.
Even in cities and suburbs, the fact that broadband is too slow, too expensive and too poorly subscribed is a significant drag on our economy. Some experts estimate that universal broadband adoption would add $500 billion to the U.S. economy and create 1.2 million jobs.
Future generations will ultimately pay for our missteps. Albert Einstein reportedly quipped that compound interest is the most powerful force in the universe. Investment in infrastructure is how a nation harnesses this awesome multiplier. Consider that 80 percent of the growth in fiber-to-the-home (super-high-speed) subscribers last year was not in the United States but in Japan. One does not need Einstein's grasp of mathematics to understand that we cannot keep pace on our current trajectory.
I don't claim to have all the answers. But there are concrete steps government must take now to reverse our slide into communications mediocrity.
To begin with, the Federal Communications Commission -- of which I am a member -- must face up to the problem. Today the agency's reports seem designed mostly to obscure the fact that we are falling behind the rest of the world. The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.
The FCC needs to start working to lower prices and introduce competition. We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize "smart radios" that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging "third pipe" technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines. And we should recommend steps to Congress to ensure the FCC's ability to implement long-term solutions.
We need a broadband strategy for America. Other industrialized countries have developed national broadband strategies. In the United States we have a campaign promise of universal broadband access by 2007, but no strategy for getting there. With less than two months to go, we aren't even within shouting distance.
The solution to our broadband crisis must ultimately involve public-private initiatives like those that built the railroad, highway and telephone systems. Combined with an overhaul of our universal service system to make sure it is focusing on the needs of broadband, this represents our best chance at recapturing our leadership position.
It seems plain enough that our present policies aren't working. Inattention and muddling through may be the path of least resistance, but they should not and must not represent our national policy on this critical issue.
Source: WashingtonPost.com
Wednesday, November 8, 2006; Page A27
America's record in expanding broadband communication is so poor that it should be viewed as an outrage by every consumer and businessperson in the country. Too few of us have broadband connections, and those who do pay too much for service that is too slow. It's hurting our economy, and things are only going to get worse if we don't do something about it.
The United States is 15th in the world in broadband penetration, according to the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). When the ITU measured a broader "digital opportunity" index (considering price and other factors) we were 21st -- right after Estonia. Asian and European customers get home connections of 25 to 100 megabits per second (fast enough to stream high-definition video). Here, we pay almost twice as much for connections that are one-twentieth the speed.
How have we fallen so far behind? Through lack of competition. As the Congressional Research Service puts it, U.S. consumers face a "cable and telephone broadband duopoly." And that's more like a best-case scenario: Many households are hostage to a single broadband provider, and nearly one-tenth have no broadband provider at all.
For businesses, it's just as bad. The telecom merger spree has left many office buildings with a single provider -- leading to annual estimated overcharges of $8 billion. Our broadband infrastructure should be a reason companies want to do business in the United States, not just another reason to go offshore.
The stakes for our economy could not be higher. Our broadband failure places a ceiling over the productivity of far too much of the country. Should we expect small-town businesses to enter the digital economy, and students to enter the digital classroom, via a dial-up connection? The Internet can bring life-changing opportunities to those who don't live in large cities, but only if it is available and affordable.
Even in cities and suburbs, the fact that broadband is too slow, too expensive and too poorly subscribed is a significant drag on our economy. Some experts estimate that universal broadband adoption would add $500 billion to the U.S. economy and create 1.2 million jobs.
Future generations will ultimately pay for our missteps. Albert Einstein reportedly quipped that compound interest is the most powerful force in the universe. Investment in infrastructure is how a nation harnesses this awesome multiplier. Consider that 80 percent of the growth in fiber-to-the-home (super-high-speed) subscribers last year was not in the United States but in Japan. One does not need Einstein's grasp of mathematics to understand that we cannot keep pace on our current trajectory.
I don't claim to have all the answers. But there are concrete steps government must take now to reverse our slide into communications mediocrity.
To begin with, the Federal Communications Commission -- of which I am a member -- must face up to the problem. Today the agency's reports seem designed mostly to obscure the fact that we are falling behind the rest of the world. The FCC still defines broadband as 200 kilobits per second, assumes that if one person in a Zip code area has access to broadband then everyone does and fails to gather any data on pricing.
The FCC needs to start working to lower prices and introduce competition. We must start meeting our legislative mandate to get advanced telecommunications out to all Americans at reasonable prices; make new licensed and unlicensed spectrum available; authorize "smart radios" that use spectrum more efficiently; and do a better job of encouraging "third pipe" technologies such as wireless and broadband over power lines. And we should recommend steps to Congress to ensure the FCC's ability to implement long-term solutions.
We need a broadband strategy for America. Other industrialized countries have developed national broadband strategies. In the United States we have a campaign promise of universal broadband access by 2007, but no strategy for getting there. With less than two months to go, we aren't even within shouting distance.
The solution to our broadband crisis must ultimately involve public-private initiatives like those that built the railroad, highway and telephone systems. Combined with an overhaul of our universal service system to make sure it is focusing on the needs of broadband, this represents our best chance at recapturing our leadership position.
It seems plain enough that our present policies aren't working. Inattention and muddling through may be the path of least resistance, but they should not and must not represent our national policy on this critical issue.
Source: WashingtonPost.com
IBM: Every continent in the world is about to deploy BPL.
IBM Business Consulting Services
Exploiting broadband over power lines.
Every continent in the world is about to deploy BPL. Can the
United States afford to stay out of the game?
READ: IBM Business Consulting Services
Exploiting broadband over power lines.
Every continent in the world is about to deploy BPL. Can the
United States afford to stay out of the game?
READ: IBM Business Consulting Services
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
FCC Fosters Commercial BPL
UPLC Applauds Decision to Classify BPL Internet Services As Information Services
Washington, DC – The United Power Line Council (UPLC) hailed today’s action by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that provides regulatory certainty for Broadband over Power Line (BPL) Internet services, which will encourage investment in BPL and deployment of broadband services to consumers.
The FCC granted the UPLC’s petition for declaratory ruling to classify BPL Internet access services as an information service, subject to FCC Title I jurisdiction. In so doing, the FCC promotes broadband competition with cable modem and DSL, which the FCC already classified as information services. In addition to providing a level regulatory playing field, the decision also provides regulatory certainty for BPL providers, as they begin to offer commercial services on a wide scale basis. Today’s decision will encourage the deployment of BPL systems by limiting regulation of BPL services. This will promote broadband access to rural and underserved consumers that currently can't get or afford broadband. The deployment of BPL also provides benefits for homeland security, creating a third broadband platform that will promote network reliability and redundancy.
The UPLC appreciates the support of the FCC in granting its petition for declaratory ruling. It is pleased that the FCC has acted and it looks forward to reviewing the details of the decision, after the Order is released.
Monday, November 06, 2006
FCC Gives Broadband-Over-Power-Lines Light Regulatory Touch
Publication Date: 6 November 2006
The US Federal Communications Commission late last week freed broadband-over-power-line technology from various regulatory constraints by classifying the technology as an information service. This puts BPL in the same regulatory bucket as cable modem and DSL.
The FCC voted unanimously to approve the United Power Line Council’s bid for the classification, as was widely expected. The FCC had reiterated its support of BPL in recent months.
If the FCC had classified BPL as a telecommunications service instead, BPL providers that use power transmission lines to provide data access would have been subject to far more regulations.
Previously, the FCC ordered that BPL providers could not interfere with existing radio services, despite requests by several entities, including amateur radio, aviation and broadcasting groups, to either ban or limit the service.
BPL is still very much in its nascent stages in the US, with just a handful of networks currently deployed around the country, predominantly in the northeast.
“The commission’s broadband statistics show that subscribers to BPL Internet access services, although few in number overall, increased by nearly 200% in 2005,” said FCC chairperson Kevin Martin, in a statement. “These services hold great promise for consumers. It is, therefore, critical that the commission take appropriate action to foster their development.”
Source: Datamonitor
The US Federal Communications Commission late last week freed broadband-over-power-line technology from various regulatory constraints by classifying the technology as an information service. This puts BPL in the same regulatory bucket as cable modem and DSL.
The FCC voted unanimously to approve the United Power Line Council’s bid for the classification, as was widely expected. The FCC had reiterated its support of BPL in recent months.
If the FCC had classified BPL as a telecommunications service instead, BPL providers that use power transmission lines to provide data access would have been subject to far more regulations.
Previously, the FCC ordered that BPL providers could not interfere with existing radio services, despite requests by several entities, including amateur radio, aviation and broadcasting groups, to either ban or limit the service.
BPL is still very much in its nascent stages in the US, with just a handful of networks currently deployed around the country, predominantly in the northeast.
“The commission’s broadband statistics show that subscribers to BPL Internet access services, although few in number overall, increased by nearly 200% in 2005,” said FCC chairperson Kevin Martin, in a statement. “These services hold great promise for consumers. It is, therefore, critical that the commission take appropriate action to foster their development.”
Source: Datamonitor
Sunday, November 05, 2006
BPL Company -"Current Comm. had accused AT&T of trying to stifle competition"
AT&T battles TXU partner
Firms clash over plans to use power lines for broadband
11:56 PM CST on Friday, November 3, 2006
By CRAYTON HARRISON / The Dallas Morning News
The company installing broadband Internet technology along TXU Corp.'s power lines may have to temporarily stop some of its work under a Friday court order sought by AT&T Inc.
The temporary restraining order, issued Friday afternoon in state District Court in Dallas County, was the latest action in an escalating dispute between AT&T and the TXU partner, Current Communications Group Inc.
Earlier Friday, Current had accused AT&T of trying to stifle competition. The company wants to build the network to offer a new kind of broadband Internet to about 2 million Texas energy customers.
AT&T also offers broadband Internet service over its phone lines.
But AT&T says it's just trying to protect its workers from a safety hazard on utility poles.
The dispute could affect the plans of Current and of TXU's Electric Delivery unit, which wants to use Current's technology to help it ward off power failures.
In a filing Friday, Current asked the Texas Public Utility Commission to rule on the matter. AT&T, in turn, filed suit, saying it needed to stop Current from creating what it called safety risks.
At the heart of the issue is a technical debate about where Current can put equipment on utility poles. AT&T, which owns some of the poles that carry TXU power lines, says Current is installing equipment too close to areas where AT&T employees have to work.
"AT&T pledges to fight for both competition and public safety," AT&T Texas president James Epperson said Friday in a written statement.
Current, on the other hand, says its equipment is in a safe area, citing standards developed by an international engineering group.
"If AT&T were to act on its threats and begin removing Current's attachments, Current would be unable to install and operate" a broadband network on TXU's electric lines, Current said in its petition Friday to the PUC.
A Current spokeswoman said she was unsure how the company would interpret Friday's court action, which ordered Current to stop installing its equipment on poles owned by AT&T, unless the installation complied with an agreement between the two companies.
TXU and Current announced their plans for the broadband Internet service late last year. Privately held Current, based in Maryland, is paying for the enhancements to the grid. TXU is paying Current $150 million over 10 years and bought a small, undisclosed stake in the company in May.
Current is still on track to begin providing service on the network by the end of this year, company spokeswoman Melissa Kresse said.
Source: Dallas Morning News
Firms clash over plans to use power lines for broadband
11:56 PM CST on Friday, November 3, 2006
By CRAYTON HARRISON / The Dallas Morning News
The company installing broadband Internet technology along TXU Corp.'s power lines may have to temporarily stop some of its work under a Friday court order sought by AT&T Inc.
The temporary restraining order, issued Friday afternoon in state District Court in Dallas County, was the latest action in an escalating dispute between AT&T and the TXU partner, Current Communications Group Inc.
Earlier Friday, Current had accused AT&T of trying to stifle competition. The company wants to build the network to offer a new kind of broadband Internet to about 2 million Texas energy customers.
AT&T also offers broadband Internet service over its phone lines.
But AT&T says it's just trying to protect its workers from a safety hazard on utility poles.
The dispute could affect the plans of Current and of TXU's Electric Delivery unit, which wants to use Current's technology to help it ward off power failures.
In a filing Friday, Current asked the Texas Public Utility Commission to rule on the matter. AT&T, in turn, filed suit, saying it needed to stop Current from creating what it called safety risks.
At the heart of the issue is a technical debate about where Current can put equipment on utility poles. AT&T, which owns some of the poles that carry TXU power lines, says Current is installing equipment too close to areas where AT&T employees have to work.
"AT&T pledges to fight for both competition and public safety," AT&T Texas president James Epperson said Friday in a written statement.
Current, on the other hand, says its equipment is in a safe area, citing standards developed by an international engineering group.
"If AT&T were to act on its threats and begin removing Current's attachments, Current would be unable to install and operate" a broadband network on TXU's electric lines, Current said in its petition Friday to the PUC.
A Current spokeswoman said she was unsure how the company would interpret Friday's court action, which ordered Current to stop installing its equipment on poles owned by AT&T, unless the installation complied with an agreement between the two companies.
TXU and Current announced their plans for the broadband Internet service late last year. Privately held Current, based in Maryland, is paying for the enhancements to the grid. TXU is paying Current $150 million over 10 years and bought a small, undisclosed stake in the company in May.
Current is still on track to begin providing service on the network by the end of this year, company spokeswoman Melissa Kresse said.
Source: Dallas Morning News
Friday, November 03, 2006
FCC approves BROADBAND over POWERLINES as Information Services to expedite Nationwide Deployment !!!
Watch and Listen: *Here*
Needs Real Player media
November 3, 2006
SOURCE: www.FCC.GOV
FCC CLASSIFIES BROADBAND OVER POWER LINE-ENABLED INTERNET
ACCESS AS “INFORMATION SERVICE”
Classification Provides Certainty for BPL Providers to Increase Broadband Deployment
Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission today declares
Broadband over Power Line (BPL)-enabled Internet access service to be an information service.
The order places BPL-enabled Internet access service on an equal regulatory footing with other
broadband services, such as cable modem service and DSL Internet access service. Competition
among broadband services providers will provide consumers with more and better services at
lower prices.
Specifically, the Order finds that the transmission component underlying BPL-enabled
Internet access service is “telecommunications,” and that the provision of this
telecommunications transmission component as part of a functionally integrated, finished BPLenabled
Internet access service offering is an information service. This approach is consistent
with the framework that the Commission has established for cable modem service and wireline
broadband Internet access service, furthering the Commission’s goal of regulating like services
in a similar manner.
In reaching these determinations, the Commission provides regulatory certainty regarding
the classification of this service, thereby encouraging deployment of BPL-enabled Internet
access to consumers.
Action by the Commission, November 3, 2006, by Memorandum Opinion and Order (FCC 06-
165). Chairman Martin, Commissioner Tate, with Commissioners Copps and Adelstein
concurring, and Commissioner McDowell not participating. Separate statements issued by
Chairman Martin, Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, and Tate.
WC Docket No.: 06-10
Wireline Competition Bureau Staff Contact: Adam Kirschenbaum, 202-418-7280;
adam.kirschenbaum@fcc.gov.
-FCCNews
about the Federal Communications Commission can also be found
on the Commission’s web site www.fcc.gov.
Needs Real Player media
November 3, 2006
SOURCE: www.FCC.GOV
FCC CLASSIFIES BROADBAND OVER POWER LINE-ENABLED INTERNET
ACCESS AS “INFORMATION SERVICE”
Classification Provides Certainty for BPL Providers to Increase Broadband Deployment
Washington, D.C. – The Federal Communications Commission today declares
Broadband over Power Line (BPL)-enabled Internet access service to be an information service.
The order places BPL-enabled Internet access service on an equal regulatory footing with other
broadband services, such as cable modem service and DSL Internet access service. Competition
among broadband services providers will provide consumers with more and better services at
lower prices.
Specifically, the Order finds that the transmission component underlying BPL-enabled
Internet access service is “telecommunications,” and that the provision of this
telecommunications transmission component as part of a functionally integrated, finished BPLenabled
Internet access service offering is an information service. This approach is consistent
with the framework that the Commission has established for cable modem service and wireline
broadband Internet access service, furthering the Commission’s goal of regulating like services
in a similar manner.
In reaching these determinations, the Commission provides regulatory certainty regarding
the classification of this service, thereby encouraging deployment of BPL-enabled Internet
access to consumers.
Action by the Commission, November 3, 2006, by Memorandum Opinion and Order (FCC 06-
165). Chairman Martin, Commissioner Tate, with Commissioners Copps and Adelstein
concurring, and Commissioner McDowell not participating. Separate statements issued by
Chairman Martin, Commissioners Copps, Adelstein, and Tate.
WC Docket No.: 06-10
Wireline Competition Bureau Staff Contact: Adam Kirschenbaum, 202-418-7280;
adam.kirschenbaum@fcc.gov.
-FCCNews
about the Federal Communications Commission can also be found
on the Commission’s web site www.fcc.gov.
Wednesday, November 01, 2006
FCC to clarify rules for powerline broadband !!!
Listen to live: FCC Audio/Video Events
FCC to clarify rules for powerline broadband
By Marguerite Reardon
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
Published: October 31, 2006, 3:30 PM PST
During its monthly meeting Friday, the Federal Communications Commission is expected to clarify any regulatory uncertainty that may surround broadband over powerline technology.
At the meeting, the commission will vote on how to classify the emerging technology, which allows electric companies to provide high-speed Internet access over the power grid. The commission will likely classify BPL as an interstate information service, rather than as a telecommunications service, thus putting it on a level playing field with DSL and cable modem services.
Because information services aren't regulated as heavily as telecommunications services, classifying BPL service as an information service is a positive step. Last year, the FCC changed the classification of DSL services to information services after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a lower court's ruling that cable modem services should be classified as information services.
Brett Kilbourne, counsel and director of regulatory services for the United Power Line Council, which represents the BPL industry, said getting the classification from the FCC could remove another hurdle for getting the services widely deployed.
"We just wanted to remove any doubt that a utility company might have when they're preparing to roll out a BPL service," he said. "As the technology gets rolled out into the mass market, it is important to get clarification, especially for the investor-owned power companies, which control about 90 percent of the power in the U.S., but tend to be more conservative."
The FCC has been a big supporter of BPL for the last couple of years, believing it could become a third broadband alternative to DSL and cable modem services. The commission believes BPL could be a tremendous help in lowering prices for consumers and getting rural parts of America connected to broadband services.
In August, the FCC unanimously adopted an order designed to reaffirm and build on the first set of rules it issued for the technology in 2004. In these original guidelines, the commission listed several ways to prevent BPL from interfering with radio signals that rely on nearby frequencies, such as those commonly used by aviation and in zones near U.S. Coast Guard and radio astronomy stations.
Even though interest in BPL has been around for years, interference issues and technical limitations have made it a tantalizing near-miss for the tech industry. But in the last couple of years, commercial deployments have grown. Last year, Current Communications Group, a service provider that specializes in BPL and TXU Electric Delivery, the largest electric company in Texas, announced that it is building a network to serve roughly 2 million homes and businesses in northern Texas.
California regulators have also given the green light to test BPL services in their state. The investment community is also getting more interested. Last year, BPL provider Current Communications Group, received more than $200 million in financial backing from major corporate players such as Google, the Goldman Sachs Group, General Electric and EarthLink.
Source: CNET News.com
FCC to clarify rules for powerline broadband By Marguerite Reardon
Staff Writer, CNET News.com
Published: October 31, 2006, 3:30 PM PST
During its monthly meeting Friday, the Federal Communications Commission is expected to clarify any regulatory uncertainty that may surround broadband over powerline technology.
At the meeting, the commission will vote on how to classify the emerging technology, which allows electric companies to provide high-speed Internet access over the power grid. The commission will likely classify BPL as an interstate information service, rather than as a telecommunications service, thus putting it on a level playing field with DSL and cable modem services.
Because information services aren't regulated as heavily as telecommunications services, classifying BPL service as an information service is a positive step. Last year, the FCC changed the classification of DSL services to information services after the U.S. Supreme Court upheld a lower court's ruling that cable modem services should be classified as information services.
Brett Kilbourne, counsel and director of regulatory services for the United Power Line Council, which represents the BPL industry, said getting the classification from the FCC could remove another hurdle for getting the services widely deployed.
"We just wanted to remove any doubt that a utility company might have when they're preparing to roll out a BPL service," he said. "As the technology gets rolled out into the mass market, it is important to get clarification, especially for the investor-owned power companies, which control about 90 percent of the power in the U.S., but tend to be more conservative."
The FCC has been a big supporter of BPL for the last couple of years, believing it could become a third broadband alternative to DSL and cable modem services. The commission believes BPL could be a tremendous help in lowering prices for consumers and getting rural parts of America connected to broadband services.
In August, the FCC unanimously adopted an order designed to reaffirm and build on the first set of rules it issued for the technology in 2004. In these original guidelines, the commission listed several ways to prevent BPL from interfering with radio signals that rely on nearby frequencies, such as those commonly used by aviation and in zones near U.S. Coast Guard and radio astronomy stations.
Even though interest in BPL has been around for years, interference issues and technical limitations have made it a tantalizing near-miss for the tech industry. But in the last couple of years, commercial deployments have grown. Last year, Current Communications Group, a service provider that specializes in BPL and TXU Electric Delivery, the largest electric company in Texas, announced that it is building a network to serve roughly 2 million homes and businesses in northern Texas.
California regulators have also given the green light to test BPL services in their state. The investment community is also getting more interested. Last year, BPL provider Current Communications Group, received more than $200 million in financial backing from major corporate players such as Google, the Goldman Sachs Group, General Electric and EarthLink.
Source: CNET News.com
FCC to clarify Broadband over powerlines this week
By Justin Mann, TechSpot.com
Published: October 31, 2006, 7:01 PM EST
Despite the seemingly ubiquitous nature of broadband services in the United States, the truth is that a majority of rural areas lack access to DSL or Cable services, and often times even wireless services. People living in these regions are forced to cope with expensive and latency-heavy satellite services or use dialup. One technology that seeks to reach that market is Broadband Over Power lines (BPL). Coming this week, the FCC is looking to clarify the regulations that will cover this technology, helping manufacturers and ISPs prepare to offer these types of services.
Originally not a feasible technology for various reasons, the past few years have seen devices and technologies that make it possible and affordable. Ultimately, it could lead to easier broadband Internet access to anyone who has a powerline near their home, which is common all over the world.
Source:
TechSpot.com
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