Technology forecasting I: Communications: Fiber optics and digital microwave may be fast-moving areas in the otherwise ponderous progress of future communications

Hemmed in by a limited electromagnetic spectrum, strong competition for investment capital, consumer indifference, and even by lack of sky-room for satellites, communications technology will probably continue its deliberate progress without spectacular breakthroughs for at least a decade ahead. In telephone communications, for example, there is eventual promise in fiber optics, but even when that technology is ready, it's implementation will have to “wait on” the growth needs of the industry.