October 24, 2005
PSTNs and broadband
VoIP and mobile services have made inroads into the PSTN-based voice services. Coupled with the obsolescence of the PSTN technology, this has resulted in a swift decrease in profits for the PSTN. Many fixed line operators are moving toward a fiber-rich IP-based access network that supports voice, data, and video services.
Alcatel provides an Intelligent Services Access Manager (ISAM), which is an IP/Ethernet platform that supports triple play broadband access. It can be used by PSTNs to implement fully converged next generation networks (NGNs). Reduction in the number of minutes per subscriber, reduced average price per minute, and reduced subscriber base are the three main reasons for the decline in profitability for PSTN. Also, as the networks grow obsolete, the operating costs increase.
TDM-based systems that have been running using narrowband digital loop carriers (DLCs) for around 30 years are nearing the end of their useful life and replacements for parts are difficult to obtain. Broadband and NGN architecture allow operators to work with unmanned locations in cabinets and a minimum number of manned central offices (CO). This network model enables operators to reduce operational costs and scale the network as per requirement with relative ease. Fixed-line operators are investing in voice migration and broadband infrastructure that will enable them to offer high-speed data and video services. alcatel.com reports:
Analog telephone adapters (ATAs) allow connection of traditional phones to broadband access lines. They are a good solution for broadband subscribers willing to sacrifice some of the plain old telephone system (POTS) benefits (such as lifeline or home wiring flexibility) in exchange for low-cost PSTN. However, this is not a cost-effective solution for mass migration of PSTN subscribers into the converged core.
Read More: PSTN Modernization in a Broadband Access Network
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