High-Speed Net Access Draws AOL to Cable Trials

America Online took a small step Tuesday on its way to a giant footprint in the world of high-speed Internet access.

The online unit of AOL Time Warner (AOL Quote) said it was joining cable TV system operator Cox Communications (COX Quote) in a technical trial of broadband Internet connections over cable systems. The test, to be conducted in a Cox-owned system in El Dorado, Ark., aims to study the logistics of offering cable subscribers a choice of high-speed Net access from several Internet service providers in a single system.

AOL's participation in the trial -- one of several such multiple-ISP tests being conducted by major cable operators -- indicates how AOL Time Warner, itself the second-largest operator of cable systems in the U.S., is counting on distribution of its high-speed AOL Plus Internet service through unaffiliated cable companies.

"It's the first step toward enabling our AOL members to enjoy service as they choose to receive it," says Lou Borrelli, AOL's senior vice president for broadband. ...