What is DSL (Digital Subscriber Loop)

The global term for a family of technologies that transforms the copper local loop into a
broadband line capable of delivering multiple video channels into the home. There are a variety
of DSL technologies known as xDSL; each type has a unique set of characteristics in terms of
performance (maximum broadband capacity), distance over maximum performance (measured
from the switch), frequency of transmission, and cost

A subscriber loop carrier or subscriber line carrier (SLC) provides telephone exchange-like
telephone interface functionality. SLC remote terminals are typically located in areas with a high
density of telephone subscribers, such as a residential neighborhood, or very rural areas with
widely dispersed customers, that are remote from the telephone company's central office (CO).
Two or four T1 circuits (depending on the configuration) connect the SLC remote terminal to the
central office terminal (COT), in the case of a universal subscriber loop carrier (USLC). An
integrated subscriber loop carrier (ISLC) has its T-spans terminating directly in time division
switching equipment in the telephone exchange.

Function of digital subscriber loop.

One system serves up to 96 customers. This configuration is more efficient than the alternative of
having separate copper pairs between each service termination point (the subscriber's location)
and the central telephone exchange.

These systems are generally installed in cabinets that have some form of uninterruptible power
supply or other backup battery arrangements, standby generators, and sometimes with additional
equipment such as remote DSLAMs.
Reliability
SLCs have been criticized for reducing the reliability of local loops due to their increased
reliance on utility power. Historically, all line power was provided by the CO and was backed up
by battery power and, for longer power outages, diesel generators housed right at the office.
However, telephone companies have increasingly been using SLCs. SLCs are notorious for
poorly functioning or short-lived battery backup systems, some lasting as little as four hours.
Many do not have on-site standby generators which require the telephone company to bring out a
portable generator before the batteries run out. This may not happen in time if there are flooded
streets, snow filled roads, or downed trees, causing outages for anyone served by that unit. Often,
the air conditioning units, sump pumps, and even lights are not backed up in those units, which
can cause equipment overheating and flooding issues.[2][3]