nec Corp. is building a US$2.42 million experimental multimedia network in Shantou, Guangdong

nec Corp. is building a US$2.42 million experimental multimedia network in Shantou, Guangdong Province, China. The network will use a combination of Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line, fiber-to-the-building, and fiber-to-the-curb to connect PCs and set-top boxes. Users will be able to access the Internet, view news on demand, and order karaoke-on-demand.

Pirelli Cables and Systems North America`s 8-channel wdm system has completed a portion of Bell Communications Research`s compliance and compatibility tests for use in regional Bell operating company networks. The Lexington, SC-based company`s T-31 multiwavelength optical transport system completed the features, functions, and performances and Synchronous Optical Network (sonet) compatibility portions of Bellcore`s technical service/audit conformance and compliance testing program. The system is undergoing the final step in the process. Also, Pirelli`s outside-plant fiber-optic cables recently gained the seal of approval from the Rural Utilities Service (rus), formerly known as the Rural Electrification Administration. The acceptance means that Pirelli can supply its cables to independent telephone companies that are eligible for rus funding.