The number of global DSL subscribers jumped 27 per cent between 2004 and 2005 to almost 126 million, and is expected to grow another 96 per cent between 2005 and 2009, when it will reach 245 million worldwide.

According to the latest DSL Aggregation Hardware report from Infonetics Research, port shipments will hit 204 million by 2009 and global annual DSL aggregation hardware revenue will jump 65 per cent between 2005 and 2009 to $10.5bn.

"The worldwide DSL aggregation market continued its healthy growth in the fourth quarter and throughout 2005, as service providers expanded their footprint and bandwidth in preparation for the delivery of high-revenue IPTV and video services," said Jeff Heynen, directing analyst at Infonetics Research.

"We are seeing phenomenal growth in IP DSLAMs and broadband loop carriers, both of which will serve as the primary platforms for the delivery of triple-play services in the years to come.

"Volume shipments of VDSL are beginning in earnest and will drive dramatic growth around the world beginning in 2007."

The research noted that DSL ports jumped 38 per cent between 2004 and 2005, from 59.8 million to 82.3 million, and revenue increased 23 per cent from $5.19bn to $6.37bn.

Alcatel led in worldwide DSL aggregation revenue and port market share during 2005, followed by Huawei. Siemens came third for ports, while Tellabs came third for revenue.