Evolution from Voiceband to Broadband Internet Access

With the growth of Internet, demand for high bit rate Internet access is growing. Even though DSL offers the possibility of very high rate Internet access, the V.90 modems are still the most used method to access Internet from homes. In this paper, we provide a brief review of the voice-band modem technology. We discuss the Internet access model that made V.90 possible. We also provide ways how V.90 like technologies (which we call advanced PCM technology) can be used to increase the bit rates beyond 56 kbps. However, with the advent of DSL and other technologies for broadband Internet access, it is unlikely that these advanced PCM technologies may find use in practice. Finally we provide a brief description what made broadband access feasible on twisted copper wires.