Intelligent Network Interface Device

A intelligent Network Interface Device, more commonly know as a "iNID," provides DSL access and HD TV to customers subscribed to AT&T's U-verse brand of services.

Unlike the traditional Network Interface Device or "NID" this replaces, an iNID includes a outdoor residential gateway and mounts to the side of the subscriber’s home in a hardened, weather-resistant enclosure that is easily accessible by carrier technicians. This decreases the complexity and cost of carrier “truck roll” technical installations required for VDSL2 and FTTP deployments.

By transferring intelligent gateway functions and all service and network terminations to the side of the house, the iNID eliminates the need to bring DSL into the house, eliminating the signal loss typical of in-home wiring. The location at the side of the house, near the existing telephone Network Interface Device, also allows for an easy connection between the iNID’s integrated VoIP function and the home’s existing phone wiring.

The outdoor location also provides carrier technicians with easy access to home coaxial cable wiring, which can be reused to distribute high-speed LAN technologies to video set-top boxes and other networked consumer devices throughout the home.