ABSTRACT
Videotelephony (VT) using a copper coaxial cable system, and a fibre optic system. Details of how each system operates are given in the text relating to each country. The RACE (Research and Development in Advanced Communication Technologies in Europe) objectives are to make a major contribution towards the implementation of integrated broadband communications in Europe and to contribute to regional development within the community, by allowing less developed regions to benefit fully from telecommunications developments. The VT pilots trial support services for the elderly and disabled, and demonstrate to RACE the types of support services in the care sector that will be commercially viable using VT. VT has the potential to extend social networks for the housebound. Local integration of both the centre and the VT service is considered important with regard to their future use. The most appropriate support service will be determined by both client need and client wishes.
