Rim Semiconductor Claims 40 Mbps Over 'Last Mile' Copper

Transmission of data traffic over copper wires at 40 Mbps speeds was reported Tuesday by Rim Semiconductor Company. The company said its products can send the data over 5,500 feet of copper wire.

Rim said the development is spelled out in its draft Release 1.0 of the Internet Protocol Subscriber Line (IPSL) specification. Noting that existing technologies can drive data over copper wire at only 15 Mbps, 40 Mbps represents a breakthrough because it will be attractive to carriers seeking ways to transmit internet protocol television (IPTV). Older DSL lines can't effectively transmit IPTV.

"Our technical team will continue to push the boundaries of data transmission across copper wire because 1.4 billion existing copper-based end users require it," said Brad Ketch, Rim's president and chief executive officer, in a statement.

The company's IPSL draft 1.0 is the first product utilizing the draft that can be included in a variety of telecommunications products, Rim said, adding that its Cupria transport processor drives the data at 40 Mbps. The company has been demonstrating the technology to equipment makers around the world.

Rim has been testing its high speed IPSL products at Monroe Telephone in Monroe, Oregon. The IPSL gear at Monroe has been testing IPTV over the carrier's existing copper network.

Rim said its technology, which is patented, can "enhance data protocols, modulation schemes, noise reduction algorithms and other core technologies." The semiconductor company said its IPSL products will help carriers utilize their existing copper lines and eliminate the need to install fiber optic lines.