"Status report and prospects on optical distribution in France"

The use of optical fibres in the distribution network brings with it significant service benefits for users including improved transmission quality, access protection facilities and open-endedness to accommodate changing requirements. This is why, after running tests on three sites in Greater Paris, FRANCE TELECOM has begun a nationwide programme to provide flexible optical access networks (Optical FAS) for its biggest customers, serving central business district buildings requiring more than four 2 Mbit/s links. For smaller businesses, with requirements ranging from to one to six 2 Mbit/s links, shared fibre systems have been on trial. Additional trials will be needed before taking a final decision as to the viability of residential connections. This article describes the current situation in France and the initial results obtained from business networks.