HDSL2 : INTEROPERBILITY AND BEYOND

In order to function, services transported over traditional HDSL require transceivers at both ends — central office and customer premises — provided by a single vendor. Standards currently being considered for its replacement, HDSL2, would allow transceivers from different vendors to interoperate. The obvious benefit for purchasers of such devices is the freedom to “mix and match” components from different manufacturers, increasing competition and ultimately reducing costs. But the real, long-term benefits of interoperability are less apparent and far more important....