Realising the broadband future

The convergence of fixed and mobile networks into a seamless broadband communications infrastructure remains a tantalising dream. The author describes how the dream might be transformed into a ubiquitous reality. Delivering this environment will require success in standardisation activity and the ability to share a vision world-wide. It will require the development of low-cost radio devices which can be ubiquitously deployed in communication devices, in turn dependent on the production of successful standards. It will require a robust competitive environment where competitors are also collaborators on important standardisation issues. Fundamental technical breakthroughs will not be needed, perhaps being limited to the development of mesh topologies, dense cellular architectures, advanced short-range devices and enhanced IP networks.