KT tests optical cable service

KT began test services yesterday for 100 households in Gwangju where the broadband provider has installed optical cables that can deliver quality video at high speeds. These cables can carry 100 megabytes of data per second, which is 10 times faster than existing broadband services. It is the first case of such cables being installed in ordinary homes. Until now, broadband providers such as KT and Hanaro Telecom installed optical cables to local telephone operating offices or communications centers within large apartment complexes. From there to individual houses, however, copper lines were installed. KT said that it plans to hook up 1.75 million households with this ultra-high- speed service by 2009. Optical cables will enable users to call up high-definition videos through the Internet, as well as have complete remote control functions for digital appliances in the home. Unlike cable, Internet connection speeds won’t be affected by the number of people using the same line. During KT’s trial service, which ends next month, the Internet connection fee will be 30,000 won ($28.50) per month, the same as regular broadband. by Lee Hee-sung, Wohn Dong-hee