The DSL Forum launched a new initiative aimed at extending broadband services past DSL modems and into other devices inside the home. The aim of the new DSLHome initiative is to create an architecture that extends QoS and management requirements into a home network for supporting multimedia applications. Key requirements include simultaneous multi-user, multi-destination support; bandwidth options to suit various usage requirements, specific service levels for video, voice, music and gaming applications; security; and a choice of CPE with simplified installation. The DSLHome initiative has two components: new technical work and market promotion. The new technical work includes:
- LAN side DSL customer premise equipment (CPE) configuration specifications
Dual port router requirements
WAN-side DSL CPE management specifications
Interface & System configuration for ADSL on customer premises
Privacy and Protection Security
Technical documents are currently circulating among DSL Forum members. In addition to this technical work, the DSL Forum will be launching programs to improve users' knowledge of DSL powered home networks. The first outcome of this effort is a pair of home networking user guides, currently under development and scheduled to be released in Q4 2003.
Eleven other industry organizations are supporting DSLHome, including: the Wi-Fi Alliance, the HomePlug Association, the Home Phoneline Networking Alliance (HomePNA), the BCD Forum, the Consumer Electronics Association and others.
http://www.dslforum.org
