In the continual evolution of networking technologies based on standard copper wiring, VDSL2 represents the pinnacle in terms of speed and performance. It is an acronym which stands for Very Hi Speed Digital Subscriber Line 2 and it is intended for use either internally within properties or as part of a wider roll-out that can be integrated into the national broadband network, working in tandem with other technologies including fibre optic connections.
VDSL2 technology is intended to offer firms the ability to supply multiple service via the same connection. For example, its high speed access would allow for high definition video, voice calls and data to be streamed directly into the home of a user without snarling up the connection. Its roll-out can be carried out incrementally, which means that new services can be offered in certain areas before others without requiring a large initial investment and upgrade process.
The theoretical maximum download speed for a VDSL2 connection is 250Mbps, but this is only possible if the connection is made at the source. Realistically the nature of copper wire will mean that the signal deteriorates over long distances in the same way as standard ADSL broadband. Current VDSL2 standards can therefore achieve 100Mbps speeds in properties that are half a kilometre away from the local telephone exchange, or 50Mbps at one kilometre`s distance. The VDSL2 standard improves on the VDSL1 alternative because it operates like ADSL2 over long distances, with up to 4Mbps connections attainable at properties up to five kilometres away from the exchange. This means the advantage over ADSL for those nearby will be significant, whilst more remote properties will not be at a disadvantage if VDSL2 technology is employed over standard ADSl.
It is possible to purchase a number of different devices which are compliant with VDSL2 standards, including splitters intended for residential and commercial use. Splitters that are compatible with VDSL2 are designed to take the converged data, voice and video services that may be offered via a single telephone connection and then divide them into their single elements for easy access around the home or workplace, depending on where they are required. Like standard ADSL, it is possible to purchase VDSL2 splitters which attach to existing telephone line internally in order to make installation of minimal difficulty. Another option is to pick up an outdoor VDSL2 splitter which can split the services at the source of the line, allowing for easy internal installation in a professional manner. This is particularly useful for those looking to integrate VDSL2 into a new build, or for businesses who require a VDSL2 network to operate internally to a professional quality.
VDSL2 technology is being trialled and deployed by a number of different broadband providers around the world. Speeds are typically advertised as up to 100Mbps and its roll out will continue into the future as current copper wire networks are propped up by its faster speeds. Isolated regions, in which ADSL and VDSL2 technology still suffers from signal degradation over long distances, may have to wait until mobile broadband alternatives become available if high speed access is desired.
