Introduction of Optical Broad-Band Networks in France

Whereas optical fibers are today the most successful transmission medium in the long-haul links of the telecommunication networks, it is less obvious how to introduce them in local broad-band networks. The French Administration of Telecommunication adopted an evolutionary concept in order to be able to install an optical cable infrastructure in its videocommunication networks. This approach will permit the French Administration to explore quickly a wide range of interactive services, enabled by the star-type structure of the optical broad-band networks, and to evaluate their demand.