Abstract
Presents a current overview of the UK telecommunications group Cable & Wireless. Describes its existing global business, with subsidiaries in over 50 countries and links with many major companies and overseas governments. Discusses the development of communications, from copper cables transmitting Morse code to modern fibre optic strands using laser light, reviewing the introduction of satellite and digital technology, computers and the Internet. Debates the convergence and possible future combination of these technologies in a multimedia communications revolution. Examines the precedents set in the early 20th century with mergers of cable and radio companies, and considers the possibility of similar mergers in the future between cable, satellite, computer and media businesses. Describes C&W’s involvement with Microsoft and BSkyB in areas such as: Web TV; set-top boxes; video-on-demand and digitization.
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