xDSL (generic Digital Subscriber Line) Referring to any of a group of broadband digital access technologies operating over embedded unshielded twisted pair (UTP) telco local loops. xDSL technologies employ sophisticated compression algorithms and multiplexing techniques to derive performance that often exceeds 1 Mbps over a voice grade local loop. Most DSL technologies support simultaneous voice and high speed Internet access, and a number support video, as well. Most of the technologies involve centralized splitters, also called modems or filters, on the customer premises side of the loop. All DSL technologies support always-on data access, as the circuit is always available from the PC through the on-premises splitter to the centralized splitter and DSL access multiplexer (DSLAM) in the central office, or other centralized 74570c24.qxd 9/11/07 12:37 PM Page 550 |