Technical and techno-economical dimensioning of HFC networks for distributive and interactive services

Hybrid fibre coax (HFC) are foreseen by many operators to be a fast way to enter the full services network era. But what are now the most requested services? It is clear that PSTN/ISDN services are widely spread through the telecommunity. The fast growth of Internet access demand is a good exhibit. Broadcast analogue and digital TV programs as well as limited interactivity are also well perceived by the residential customers. Starting from a traditional coaxial network the delivery of narrowband and (limited) interactive services (including telephony) will lead to new investments and engineering problems. The paper presents the view of an operator willing to upgrade his network, having or not a coaxial distribution network (if a coaxial network is available this part has to be discounted from the cost per home passed). (8 pages)