Trying to guess which Internet technology will be used to help offset the growing consumer demand for broadband service is the focus of a University of Colorado at Boulder School of Law conference to be held Sept. 29 from 3:15 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Fleming Law Building on campus.
Titled "Searching for the Third Broadband Pipe," the conference will examine the rise of Internet-enabled applications that are being developed to meet the demand for broadband service other than DSL and cable modem connections.
The law school's Silicon Flatirons Telecommunications Program, established six years ago to examine cutting-edge issues involving telecommunications technology, business and policy, is sponsoring the conference.
"For policymakers and businesses alike, the question of what "pipes" other than DSL and cable modem connections will enter this important marketplace is a critical question," said Professor Phil Weiser, Silicon Flatirons' executive director. "As former FCC Chairman Michael Powell put it, "magical things," including price competition, innovation and relationships with applications providers, start to happen when three providers battle it out in a market," said Weiser.
"Pipes" is a term used to describe Internet-enabled applications such as dial-up and broadband.
According to Weiser, a number of Internet technology experts from the business and academic fields will evaluate the likely success and notable challenges facing the contenders for the third broadband pipe, as well as the business and public policy implications of the search.
For more information on the conference, visit the conference Web page at .
Because seating is limited, all attendees should register in advance at . A registration fee is required, but Silicon Flatirons program supporters, members of the press, CU students, faculty and staff will be admitted free of charge. Continuing legal education credit is available for attendees.
For more information, contact Travis Litman at (303) 735-5633 or travis.litman@colorado.edu.