Compaq Computer Corp is using a digital signal processor from Lucent Technologies Inc for the 1.5Mbps MAX Digital DSL modem included within its new Presario 5100c Internet PC. It uses Lucent’s WildWire DSP1690 chip set to provide internet connections said to be 25 times faster than current 256K modems. Compaq worked with Lucent and Aware Inc on the modem, which is available via Compaq’s built-to-order custom configuration system. Lucent’s DSP1690 chip set supports both ADSL and V.90 (56-Kbps) analog connections, so it can work in areas where DSL is not yet offered. Lucent is working to make the chip compatible with the ITU’s G.Lite standard for 1.5Mbps technology, based on Bedford, Massachusetts-based Aware’s asynchronous digital subscriber line modem. Data from the internet can be received at 1.5Mbps, although sending is slower at 512 Kbps. For full speed, subscribers must be situated less than two miles from a telephone switch, which around 80% of US homes are. G.Lite doesn’t require the installation of splitter hardware for separating the ADSL signals from the telephone signals, which currently has to be installed at customer premises by the carrier company.
