September 1995 | Special Publication NTIA SP-95-33
Survey of Rural Information Infrastructure Technologies
Cite This Publication
Kenneth C. Allen et al., “Survey of Rural Information Infrastructure Technologies,” Special Publication NTIA SP-95-33, U.S. Department of Commerce, National Telecommunications and Information Administration, Institute for Telecommunication Sciences, September 1995.
Kenneth C. Allen, Robert J. Achatz 
, Brent L. Bedford, Eldon J. Haakinson, Raymond D. Jennings, Michael Laflin, Vincent S. Lawrence, John J. Lemmon, Patricia J. Longstaff, Robert J. Matheson, Elizabeth E. Pol, Bradley J. Ramsey, Wayne R. Rust, Frank H. Sanders, Robert B. Stafford, and Jeffery A. Wepman
Abstract: Communication and information technologies can reduce the barriers of distance and space that disadvantage rural areas. This report defines a set of distinct voice, computer, and video telecommunication services; describes several rural information applications that make use of these services; and surveys various wireline and wireless systems and technologies that are being used or might be used to deliver these services to rural areas. Rural information applications require a wide range of telecommunication services, but no current system or technology is capable of delivering all of these services to all areas. This report concludes that there are many technologies suitable for providing voice telecommunication services in rural areas. It is also technically feasible to provide advanced computer networking and video capabilities to even relatively small towns in rural areas. No technology was found capable, however, of economically providing these broadband capabilities to the most isolated farms, ranches, and homes. It is expected that new wireless technology will need to be developed to accomplish this. Government regulations and policies will also play an essential role in the development of the Rural Information Infrastructure. Different regulations and policies will likely be required in rural areas than in urban areas.
Keywords: National Information Infrastructure (NII); networking; Rural Information Infrastructure (RII); rural telecommunications; telecommunication services; telecommunication systems; telecommunication technologies
For technical information concerning this report, contact:
Robert J. Achatz
Institute for Telecommunication Sciences
(720) 642-6705
rachatz@ntia.gov
For funding information concerning this report, click this link.
Funding Information
Performing Agency
Disclaimer:
Certain commercial equipment, components, and software may be identified in this report to specify adequately the technical aspects of the reported results. In no case does such identification imply recommendation or endorsement by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, nor does it imply that the equipment or software identified is necessarily the best available for the particular application or uses.
For questions or information on this or any other NTIA scientific publication, contact the ITS Publications Office at ITSinfo@ntia.gov or 303-497-3572.