Systems and methods for providing multiple communication services over existing twisted pair access lines

Abstract

Systems and methods are described for providing a plurality of communication services over existing access lines such as twisted pair access lines. These services include voice, audio/video, and data communication services, the so-called 'triple play' of services. The use of existing communication lines enables these services to be provided at a relatively low cost. Remote terminals are located close to subscriber premises to reduce the length of the existing communication lines connecting subscribers to the network. Data associated with a plurality of communication services may be statistically multiplexed onto the communication lines. Subscribers are provided with the capability to dynamically select services, including the capability to select audio/video signals from a set containing audio/video broadcast signals. The systems and methods enable data to be transported efficiently through the backbone network interconnecting central offices. Capabilities comparable the capabilities of coaxial cable systems are provided at a lower cost than alternative approaches, such as running fiber all the way to the subscriber premises.