Abstract

In the world of optical fiber, 1992 was a benchmark year. The Deutsche Bundespost in Germany and BellSouth and Ameritech in the U.S. signed contracts for large quantities of fiber in the loop, which extends fiber nearly to the home. Cable television operators installed fiber for improving service quality and reliability while paving the way for new service delivery. Local-exchange carriers and alternate-access providers constructed fiber rings in major cities to provide robust service even if cables are accidently cut or if equipment fails. Numerous additional fiber optic submarine-cable routes were announced, further linking the international global communities.

© 1993 Optical Society of America