P/C/51. Applications of the dark fibre

The paper deals with the use of optical fibre in telecommunications technologies and examines the applications of the so-called 'dark fibre', the optical fibre that remains unused (with no light travelling though it). The ways of utilizing it to maximum effect are described in technological, commercial, economic and social perspectives focusing on the effects of the 'dotcom boom'. The paper argues that common application of dark fibre for broadband Internet access leads to a growing rift between urban and rural communities. Potentials for future application of dark fibre are outlined.