This is a research project on advanced communications systems suitable for implementing the next generation of large public networks. The principal investigator has conceptualized a new technology called broadcast packet switching that should support a wide range of applications including voice, data, broadcast video (TV) and voice/video teleconferencing. Today, telephone and cable networks are oriented towards a specific application and each uses a communications technology well-matched to its principal application but poorly suited to most others. Although telephone networks can be used for data communications this usually requires the use of modems which provide slow, noisy channels. Thus, with existing and presently planned technologies, three separate, dedicated, applications networks may be required to meet the rapidly growing communications needs of the general public. Successful results from this investigation will satisfy long term communications needs through development of an integrated network capable of supporting a wide variety of applications simultaneously.
