Global service provider spending on DSL equipment topped USD2.3bn in 2001, according to RHK Inc. Europe and Asia-Pacific led the market with 66% of ports shipped. Alcatel remained market leader with 41% share, followed by Siemens (13%), and Lucent (10%).

RHK defines service provider DSL equipment as network systems that stay within the network and support the major types of high-bandwidth data over copper lines: ADSL, SHDSL and VDSL.

"2001 was a growth year for Europe as incumbent service providers, led by Deutsche Telekom, ramped up deployment of DSL to remain competitive and gain more broadband subscribers," said Ian Cox, RHK's senior analyst, Broadband Access Networks.