Switched vs. broadcast video for fiber-to-the-home systems

The potential benefits of the state of the art in fiber-based video transmission for both broadcast and switched network configurations are examined, and these designs are compared based on performance, channel capacities, compatibility, ability to provide new interactive services, and cost per subscriber. Analysis results show that the broadcast network provides the best compatibility with video delivery but lacks the flexibility to deliver the interactive services of the future, and does not tend to lower the cost per channel. The switched network provides the best flexibility but it is the least compatible with today's video usage and may be too expensive. It is found that a hybrid system, using a subset of the features of both broadcast and switched networks, can meet both near-term and future video service demands, and offers the best flexibility. This network will be capable of implementing CATV (cable television) transport services while at the same time creating a flexible switch-based platform for new interactive video services, all with a lower capital cost per channel.<
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