An device, called a facilities management platform (FMP) connects current digital
and analog carrier networks and packet switched networks of interexchange carriers
with high speed multiple access subscriber links implemented over twisted pair
lines. The subscriber line is terminated by an access module containing one or
more modems. In preferred embodiments, the modems are high-speed digital tethered
vial radio channel or xDSL modems. The FMP interface applies and receives signaling
and voice through a digital loop carrier (DLC) via a multiplexer connected directly
to the DLC backplane. The multiplexer is controlled by a controller of an access
module. It translates data from the subscriber link to the form compatible with
the digital backplane to create the appearance of one or more line cards. The FMP
also may contain a sound generator to allow it to handle calls through an analog
carrier network. The FMP, through the same access module transmits data to and
from the modems directly through connected digital networks, such as ATM or SONET,
of an interexchange carrier. Through this interface, different network companies
can offer competing products through different networks all seamlessly connected
through a high speed subscriber line.