Use of remotes for switch modernization to cap copper feeder growth

The feasibility and economics of modernizing analog switched lines on remotes are analyzed and compared to modernizing these lines in the central office. The value of the freed-up copper pairs is evaluated with respect to outside plant expenditures for cable and structure relief. Modernization on remotes and the value of freed-up copper are put together to determine if capping copper feeder growth is economically achievable in residential networks. Other benefits, such as operational savings associated with the deployment of fiber remotes and replacement costs of copper beyond the remotes are reviewed. Results indicate that modernizing switched lines on remotes on feeder routes where new copper is required is an effective and economical way to cap copper feeder growth