TeleWest Launches Internet Service

TeleWest has announced the launch of its own Internet access service called Cable Internet. Although currently wholly owned by TeleWest, the UK’s largest cable operator, Cable Internet is intended as a platform that would allow all cable operators to provide Internet services.

According to TeleWest a number of major operators, including NYNEX CableComms, General Cable and Comcast, have shown strong interest in the venture. It is hoped that Cable Internet will source and manage a high speed national and international data network, provide national technical support for customers, and develop new services to be delivered over both telephone and cable networks.

The venture will initially offer ‘dial up’, leased line and ISDN Internet access to business, residential and educational markets. It will also take advantage of ultra high-speed access via broadband cable modems which is expected in 1997 – cable modems allow data transmission speeds at up to 10 million bits per second which is 300 times faster than current technology. A number of site-owners have confirmed their interest in participating in the largest UK trial of broadband modem technology, which is scheduled by TeleWest for this summer.

Cable Internet’s plans are already well advanced. It has established a national operations centre and a technical support centre. A trial service is currently underway in TeleWest’s Scottish franchise and the full service is planned to roll out to other regions later this year.

TeleWest: 01483 750900