Three papers consider the provision of telephone service to rural and/or low income customers. The first paper, "An Analysis of Telephone Penetration" (Alexander Belinfante), analyzes the relationship between telephone penetration (the proportion of households with phone service) and prices, household income, and other factors. This…

This paper looks at nine states--California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Nebraska, Texas, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington--in an effort to find common themes in the processes and outcomes of post-divestiture state telecommunications policies. The possible consequences of current state policies are then discussed, and it is suggested that…

This bulletin outlines the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) responsibilities in regulating the interstate and foreign common carrier communication via electrical means. Also summarized are the history, technological development, and current capabilities and prospects of telegraph, wire telephone, radiotelephone, satellite communications,…

Complex systems such as telephone exchanges and computers consist of large numbers of simple components. Complexity theory seeks to establish the number of components needed to perform a given task. Numerous illustrations are included in the discussion of complexity theory. (Author/MA)

Addresses shifts in basic telecommunication common carrier regulatory policies over the past decade; technological and economic changes prompting these policy shifts; major regulatory action resulting from these policy shifts; and the emerging regulatory issue of alternatives to local telephone service and its possible implication for online…

Two papers present arguments for and against the Communications Competitiveness and Infrastructure Act of 1991 (S. 1200). Topics addressed include earlier policy recommendations, competition in the telecommunications industry, benefits of video dial tone availability, telephone company participation in video services, restrictions on telephone…

Describes how to find accurate, current information about telecommunications industries, products and services, rates and tariffs, and regulatory information using electronic information resources available from the private and public sectors. A sidebar article provides contact information for producers and service providers. (KRN)

Discusses deregulation of the telephone companies and describes information services being offered by the new Regional Holding Companies. Topics addressed include cable services; the information superhighway; voice mail and messaging; electronic delivery of telephone books; multimedia compact disc-interactive; videotex services; and news services.…

The purpose of this report is to assess the viability of developing commercial computer communications networks to provide communications services to the deaf community on a nationwide basis. Access to this network is considered for existing Baudot/Weitbrecht Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf (TDDs) and ASCII terminals with Bell modems. The…

This statement was presented by the chairman of the American Telephone and Telegraph Company before a United States Senate subcommittee hearing on domestic communications common carrier policies. It contains a discussion of the principles that have governed the telephone industry throughout its history and then presents arguments against the…

Basic information about the characteristics, uses, and implications of communication satellites is presented. Characteristics covered include the various types of systems--such as point-to-point, distribution, and broadcasting satellites--and the flexibility, capacity, geographical coverage, cost and disadvantages of satellites. The section on…

This bulletin reviews early federal regulation of telegraphy, telephone, and radio communications, and the development of the Radio Acts of 1912 and 1927, the Communications Act of 1934, and the Communications Satellite Act of 1962. A large portion of the discussion focuses on the regulatory power and procedures of the Federal Communications…

Examines the interactions between the physical and social aspects of the telephone. (JMF)

Surveys the differing opinions on the value of universal telephone service and examines to what extent society should continue the policy of universal service in the information age. Identifies the different approaches that have been put forth to achieve, maintain, and fund universal service in a telecom industry increasingly driven by competition…

Highlights points to consider when choosing an Internet Service Provider. Serial Line Internet Protocol (SLIP) and Point to Point Protocol (PPP) are compared regarding price, performance, bandwidth, speed, and technical support. Obtaining access via local, national, consumer online, and telephone-company providers is discussed. A pricing chart and…