Thursday, 2 December 2004 • 8:30 – 10:30

Kumar Ramaswamy, Thomson, USA
Abstract: New xDSL Services

As mass deployment of triple-play services are contemplated over DSL networks, several issues need resolution. Key issues include the availability of bandwidth with quality of service, secure redistribution of content in the home and availability of content. This session will focus on the following aspects of video-over-DSL services:
• Network evolution
• Content distribution and protection
• Home network distribution
• Advanced compression as a technology enabler
• Content availability

Bio: Dr. Kumar Ramaswamy is the General Manager of Thomson's Corporate Research Center in Princeton, New Jersey focusing on broadband communications. He is also responsible for the research planning and execution of Thomson's interests in the communications and networking   domains. Kumar previously managed the Future Communications Laboratory at Thomson's research center in Indianapolis that was responsible for the development and deployment of several communication systems including the DIRECTV*, HDTV, advanced digital cable and wireless cable systems. He was also CTO of HomeFront DSL - a CLEC established in Indiana offering triple play including video-over-DSL. Kumar received a PhD in Electrical and Computer Systems Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1993, MS degree in Mathematics from RPI in 1992, a MSEE from Vanderbilt in 1988 and a BE(Honours) degree from REC Trichy, India in 1986. He has 26 issued US patents, several international patents and has over 70 pending patent applications. He has been an invited speaker at leading international conferences and has conducted numerous technical tutorial sessions. He was awarded the Outstanding Young Electrical Engineer award in 2000 by the Eta Kappa Nu honor society.

Speaker: Keith Wehmeyer, Thomson, USA

Bio: Keith R. Wehmeyer is the General Manager for the IP video profit center in Thomson's Broadband Access Products Business Unit. With expertise in the fields of broadband, consumer electronics and audio/video distribution and compression technologies, Keith is currently managing the IP video business for Thomson. This involves working on growth strategies and product development in the areas of IP set top boxes and compression technologies. For the past six years he has been involved in the development of broadband-enabled entertainment products with major corporate partners including Microsoft, Intel and Gemstar. Previously he was involved in planning and development for various home entertainment products such as DIRECTV* satellite receivers, HDTVs, and electronic program guides. Keith holds BSEE and MSEE degrees from the University of Cincinnati and has been awarded thirteen U.S. patents. He is the author of the book, "What Every Engineer Should Know About Microcomputer Program Design" (Marcel Dekker, publisher). He is a licensed Professional Engineer, and a member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers.

Talk Title: Platforms and home distribution issues for xDSL services

Abstract: