MDU Networks; copper / fiber or InCoax?
Sweden is the country in Europe where most MDU networks (copper or fiber) have been built, in absolute terms. The cumulative cost of these networks is already over 2 billion SEK, which is charged back to the tenants over the monthly rent. In many cases the property owner have signed long-term contracts, up to 9 years, in order to finance investment in the networks. There are basically three different network types to choose from. Copper-based cable networks, CAT 5/6 can handle 100 Mbps and CAT-6 1000 Mbps, fiber with unlimited capacity and InCoax that utilizes the building's existing coaxial cables with a capacity today of 100 Mbps. Utilization rates in a CAT5 / 6 or fiber networks has proven to be quite low. Only 15-50% of the tenants subscribes to the new MDU network. Many refrains to change, from ADSL broadband to MDU network broadband access, due to low price difference.
