Global communication - a 15 year technology forecast

Abstract

A technology forecast for 1990-2005 A.D. is made for the global compunication technology, which is a synergetic merger of computer technology and communication technology. The trends in global compunication as it metamorphoses the office, the factory and the home services, are forecast, utilising the Harvard Map of Information products and services as well as Kobayashi's concept of integration of computer and communication. From the experience of setting up a nation-wide computer-communication network, NICNET, based on very small aperture terminals (VSATs) and spread spect urn code division mUltiple access technology, certain VSAT technology trends are analysed. In this produc environment, the emerging profile of integrated services digital network (ISDN) is outlined based on a seven-layer protocol and broad-band application spectrum. Supplementary forecasts are made on trends in value added network, switched optical communication, cellular mobile communication, and personal communication network.