mance of the entire circuit. Another approach is to go directly to a LEC and request a dedicated connection to an IXC (Base Line Service). In this type of arrangement, a customer pays two bills: one to the LEC, and one to the long distance provider. It is possible that even more than two bills will be rendered: depending on how many LECs' areas the circuit passes through to reach the IXC's closest POP. The total cost for access is lower than with a dedicated connection because, in times of circuit malfunction, the customer is responsible for problem resolution. Probably the least costly way to obtain access is to buy it from a competitor of the local telephone company, an alternative carrier known as a competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC). Historically, these tend to specialize in digital access service. Managers who have the option of using CLECs often find that they are, in addition to being price-competitive, very service-oriented. Their networks tend to be newer, but many gain depth-of-experience by hiring former telephone company employees. CLECs often offer faster response time for circuit installation and repair, and are flexible (and interested) enough to fill atypical customer requests. Video Communications: The Whole Picture Astute managers ensure that its carrier deliver T-1 service over the shortest possible path because billing reflects how far a customer is from the CO. It is also prudent to weigh the discounts awarded for long term-commitments against pricing declines that a deregulated industry promotes. The post-Deregulation Act environment offers other choices, too. Cable television operators, electrical utilities, mobile network operators, and others seek a piece of the local exchange market. Shopping around can be confusing, and rewarding, depending on how the process is managed. Signaling and Synchronization in the Digital Network Carriers, when taking orders for T-1 service, always ask what type of signaling/framing should be used. The video communication system provider usually knows w