By By: Dennis R. Clark
Utilizing the public switched telephone network for Impulse Pay-Per-View (IPPV) is an appealing alternative to building and maintaining a two-way cable plant. The telephone system provides a reliable means of communication for both voice and data. What will happen when it is subjected to concentrated peak loads for Impulse Pay-Per-View purchases? The 'store and forward' IPPV system provides a method to eliminate peak loads. The subscriber terminal must be a 'smart' addressable unit with non-volatile memory and auto-dial modem capability. The terminal stores the purchased event service code and time of purchase. At a later time the terminals are commanded to call, in organized 'calling groups', to report their stored purchases. This paper examines the operation of a hybrid cable/telephone IPPV system and how it will work in a real cable system environment.