FCC opens proceedings on IP networks

The FCC issued a public notice  seeking comment on how to structure real-world trials relating to the on-going transition from copper to fiber, from wireline to wireless, and from circuit-switched to all-IP networks. The trials will focus in three areas:

• The move from circuit-switched TDM (time division multiplexing) to all-IP networks, as providers migrate to voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) interconnection.
• The transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG911), examining “the impact of network resiliency and public safety more broadly as consumers migrate to wireless and IP-based services that are dependent on commercial power.”
• The substitution of wireless for wireline, making sure consumers can move back to wireline during and after the trial if wireless fails to provide dependable service.

Comment deadlines are 45 days (for initial comments) and 75 days (for reply comments) after the notice is published in the Federal Register.

Speed Matters believes these critical changes must be accompanied by adherence to principles that protect consumers and advance good jobs for workers in this major industry.

Read the whole FCC public notice here.

Technology Transitions Policy Task Force Seeks Comment On Potential Trials (FCC, May 10, 2013)
 
Six Principles for Telecom Regulation in an all-IP world (Speed Matters, Mar. 7, 2013)