Design options for hybrid copper/fibre broadband local loops

The application of hybrid copper/fiber architectures within the access network to the provision of broadband services is examined. Rather than the two extreme options of either taking fiber all the way to the customer, or entirely retaining the existing copper network, and providing the broadband service over the copper all the way from the exchange, these networks provide something of a median solution. They use fiber from the exchange to either the cabinet or to the distribution point (DP), and then retain the existing copper from that point to the customer´s premises. This structure enables telecommunications operators to provide a broadband service with minimal investment in additional plant, and to best utilize their existing investment in copper