Telkom 20Mbps and 40Mbps DSL network plans

MyBroadband recently reported that Telkom is getting ready to trial 20Mbps and 40Mbps DSL services, where the 40Mbps connections will be used for video-on-demand trials.

According to information received by MyBroadband, the company will roll out high speed DSL services at a few exchanges around the country to trial new 20Mbps and 40Mbps DSL technologies.

To achieve these high speeds far lower local loop lengths will be required, and Bashier Sallie, Telkom’s Senior Managing Executive for Wholesale and Networks, explained that “It has and continues to be a Telkom strategy to reduce the copper loop length, by taking ‘fibre to the curb’”.

Sallie added that Telkom continues to investigate and innovate towards the development, growth and implementation of fixed-line broadband to enhance the broadband experience of their customers.

Bashier Sallie

It is understood that Telkom will deploy remote IMAX units (a new generation of mini-DSLAM) which will then be backhauled to the exchange via fibre. This will reduce copper loop lengths to below 800m, making far higher DSL speeds possible.

To roll out these new technologies, shorten the local loop and potentially even replace old copper where needed is a massive undertaking, and rumours are surfacing that Telkom is embarking on a large project to achieve this objective.

VDSL (courtesy of EETimes)

Known as the Delta Partners Project, the aim is to rapidly improve broadband penetration rates and improve broadband speeds to customers.  Video-on-demand to residential customers is even being considered.

Telkom will involve their suppliers and contractors to step in where Telkom falls short on resources to serve its ‘network upgrade’ needs.

The scale and complexity of this project means that Telkom is still grappling with some of the details, but what is clear is that Telkom looks serious about upping their broadband speeds and strengthening their position in the South African broadband market.

Telkom was asked for feedback about their Delta Partners Project, but the company did not respond by the time of publication.