FF>> To any modem, the local loop is only several metres in length, as
 FF>> opposed to hundreds or even thousands of metres in Telstra's
 FF>> case.

 JC> I stand corrected.

 JC> This arrangement sounds ideal, especially for modems.  Almost zero
 JC> local loop loss.

But for modems designed with local loop losses of 7db, this could actually
upset things, but it shouldn't.

 JC> Conversion to ISDN 2B+D service should be relatively easy.  I wonder
 JC> if this means that an ISDN service will cost little more than the
 JC> standard analogue service?

Well, there really is no technical reason to price ISDN over Optus' HFC any
more than a voice line, but they no doubt will :-(

In fact, there is no technical reason why Telstra's ISDN line prices are
higher than voice lines. ISDN lines should actually be *cheaper*, as there
is no need to place a line card in the exchange for an ISDN link.

 JC> At long last, but only just, I can see a point to those ugly cables.

One more point. Several Melbourne councils have struck deals with Optus
Vision and the local power companies. For the councils blessing to put up
their cables, Optus Vision and the power companies have agreed to bury all
the cables in that council within 30 odd years, something that would never
have happened without Optus Vision cables.

Personally, I can't see what everyone's complaining about. Power lines are
a hell of a lot more ugly than Optus Vision's cables.

Regards,
Frank


... Can you say Superfranticunproductiveuseles?
--- GoldED 2.50+