I have selected a few emerging technologies for discussion in this class. The first is ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line). It is a technology that can use the existing copper buried in the ground for high speed transmission (at least in one direction). It opens up new business opportunities for local telcos. The second technology is ATM (Asynchronous transfer mode). It is a scalable technology that can be used for uniform transmission of different types of information. The third is wireless technology in the local loop. There have been many developments in wireless technologies. The reason I wanted to focus on the local loop, is that the advent of wireless promises to increase competition in the local loop since it avoids the problem of laying cable. Learn about these three technologies by going to http://www.webproforum.com. this site contains excellent tutorials on a host of subjects. Select the buttons corresponding to ADSL, Wireless local loop and ATM Fundamentals.