ISPr does a second interview with Keith MacLean regarding Powerline

The cables in the power network are generally no longer than this since the voltage drop would otherwise make them unusable.

16) How do you foresee the increased uptake of competitive broadband services (ADSL, Cable, Wireless etc.) affecting the future of Powerline as a commercial / consumer accessible platform?

At the moment there is still a big market to go for since the gap between current and predicted penetration is large. However, going forward there will come a time where it will be difficult for a new technology to make the breakthrough. PLC does have the one advantage that it is likely to be able to cope with higher bandwidth needs going forward.

17) In rural areas will the distance from the sub-station matter, as these may be some miles from scattered hamlets?

See 13 above

18) In rural areas homes are often served by transformers on a roadside pole - will these transformers need to be modified as well as the substation, so ensuring that those out of reach of ADSL can access broadband through Powerline?

Some new systems use a combination of PLC and wireless in this environment – using the PLC to go along the cables and wireless down to the properties.

19) Will you be seeking some of the new funding now being made available by the European Commission?

PLC is expected to receive FP6 funding of up to €20million from the Commission for a new project over the next 2 years.

Interference Questions

20) In the event that someone experiences interference from your service, what is the complaint procedure and how are such instances normally resolved?

The procedure that should be followed is set out as part of licence conditions from OFCOM and, I believe, can be read in full on their website.

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