time assignment speech interpolation

communications

Also known as: TASI

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Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

Time-division multiple access (TDMA) is a method for sharing a communications channel among multiple users by dividing time into slots and assigning separate slots to different users. This technique is used in telephone systems and advanced mobile cellular systems. When requests for channel use exceed available slots, information is buffered, which can introduce a slight delay.1

Time assignment speech interpolation (TASI) is a method used in undersea telephone cables to increase the number of voice circuits. TASI utilizes the natural pauses in speech to carry other conversations, effectively doubling the capacity of the cable system. However, with advancements in optical fiber technology and higher transmission rates, TASI is no longer necessary for undersea cables.2

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telephone
Undersea cable
…voice data reduction known as time assignment speech interpolation, or TASI, was introduced. In TASI the natural pauses occurring in speech were used to carry other speech conversations. In this way a coaxial cable system designed for 4,200 two-way voice circuits could support 10,500 circuits.
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…voice data reduction known as time assignment speech interpolation, or TASI, was introduced. In TASI the natural pauses occurring in speech were used to carry other speech conversations. In this way a coaxial cable system designed for 4,200 two-way voice circuits could support 10,500 circuits.
Read More