Local Loop Challenges

1. Local Loop Challenges Scott Jones Williams Vyvx ServicesOct 2, 2000 VIDEO SERVICES FORUM

2. Agenda • Issues • Use of AC power services at POPs • Use of Mid-point video demarc • Use of multiple carriers per local loop (Inter- LATA service) • Local Loops not meeting defined specs within tariffs • Recommendations

3. Issues • AC Power use in POPs • POP AC Power is single sourced non-redundant. • AC Power within the POP is limited, mostly all converted to DC power. • DC power within the POPs is redundant with Battery backup. • DC power provides a cleaner signal to the video equipment, less chance of power spikes, reduced EMI, no hits during power loss. • During a power loss the DC power will be unaffected while the diesel generators come on-line because the equipment is feed primarily by batteries.

4. Issues • Mid-Point Video Demarc • Local Loop Provider (LLP) will use a point-to-point system to deliver the signal between the customer premise and a Telco Central Office. Then LLP will use a multipoint system between that CO and the Vyvx POP • Creates video/audio baseband transition point problems. • Reduced video/audio quality • additional point of failure • additional adjustment point

5. Issues • Use of multiple carriers per local loop (Inter- LATA service) • Service type created when the two local loop end points are in LATAs serviced by two different local loop providers. • Typically one group is awarded the contract and the other group becomes the sub-contractor. • Trouble-shooting procedures are complex as the customer is not allowed direct access to the sub-contracted LLP and by the fact that the troubleshooting procedures may differ.

6. Issues • Local Loops not meeting defined specs within tariffs • Equipment may not be delivered from the factory stating that it meets local loop specifications. • Equipment is installed without documented proof that it meets local loop specifications outlined in the tariff. • LLPs are not using test equipment and procedures to prove the loops meet tariff before been handed over to the customer.

7. Recommendations • AC Power use in POPs • Vyvx recommends that at a minimum all Video equipment serving in an “on-air” capacity in the Vyvx POPs or any other location designed with redundant DC power support be DC powered. • VSF Discussion and Recommendation

8. Recommendations • Mid-Point Video Demarc • Vyvx recommends an architecture be created such that the CO collection point does not go through a baseband video/audio transition and also that equipment be DC powered due to the DC restoration capabilities at the COs • VSF Discussion and Recommendation

9. Recommendations • Use of multiple carriers per local loop (Inter- LATA service) • Vyvx recommends, where possible, a common procedure be created for troubleshooting video transport services and/or Vyvx (the customer) be given direct access to all the LLPs associated with a feed during an outage. • VSF Discussion and Recommendation

10. Recommendations • Local Loops not meeting defined specs within tariffs • Vyvx recommends that all equipment from the manufactures are shipped with documentation that proves it met local loop requirements (excluding adjustments or demarcation cabling) and/or all LLP must provide documented proof to Vyvx (the customer) that the local loop met the specification listed within their tariff using agreed upon test equipment and procedures. • VSF Discussion and Recommendation