Alternative
Broadband Platforms
Can They Compete With Fiber Optics? Where?
116th St and Amsterdam
Columbia
[ Agenda ]
Fiber optics-based
networks such as cable companies’ hybrid/fiber coax (HFC) systems and
local
telephone companies’ Fiber to the Neighborhood (FTTN) or Premises
(FTTP) have
virtually unlimited bandwidth and, once installed, very low incremental
costs
and high reliability. However, a variety
of other technologies can also be used as broadband infrastructures.
These
alternatives include BPL, WiFi, WiMax, 3G, and Free Space Optics.
As new data and
video applications require ever greater bandwidth, can these
alternatives
successfully compete with fiber-based systems in most markets as a
basic
broadband infrastructure? Are some of
these alternatives really only suitable for mobile applications? or in
niche
markets where fiber-based systems are impractical? or as temporary
solutions
until fiber-based systems are deployed? Are some of these alternatives
really extensions
of the fiber-based systems, rather than competitors?
The fundamental
question is simple: will fiber-based systems face meaningful
competition from
other technologies in most markets? Or will fiber-based systems
inevitably
dominate the broadband market?
The likely extent
and degree of infrastructure competition is a critical issue for
policymakers,
investors, network operators and consumers.
CITI’s workshop will assess the
relative
strengths and weaknesses of the various broadband technologies and be a
foundation for a later CITI conference (April 22) on “Are Multiple
Broadband
Infrastructures Sustainable?”
Workshop speakers
will include representatives of companies offering alternative
broadband
systems, policymakers and investors. CITI’s
website http://www.citi.columbia.edu will have the latest details and registration
information.
Registration
Please register
online at http://www.ersvp.com/reply/event12050. Corporate and regular attendees: $50. Academics, government officials, and
non-profit attendees, $20. Students may
attend for free without lunch, or for $20 with lunch.
CITI Affiliates, please contact Ben Bloom at 212-854-4222 for special registration arrangements.