Ease of Use . Marconi carries analog as well as digital signals on its wavelengths, which means that equipment installed in homes allows customers to plug in their existing equipment - phones, PCs, TV sets. They're not forced to buy new gear, as they might be with alternative solutions. 2 million lines have been installed to date, according to McDonald. As noted, Bell Atlantic has been testing Marconi's equipment and plans to start trials this summer, according to McDonald.
General availability is scheduled for the end of the year.