Hybridizing the local loop

The recent collapse of two widely publicized merger proposals-of Bell Atlantic with Tele-Communications International and Southwestern Bell with Cox Broadcasting-has shaken some industry pundits, who are now wondering if communications convergence is on hold, if not dead. Whether or not phone and cable TV companies merge, the technologies they use to deliver their services to the home will do so. The author speculates how electric utilities may play a key role in their amalgamation.<
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