SBC to Invest Up to $6 Billion on Fiber for DTV

SBC Communications plans to spend between $4 billion and $6 billion to drive fiber into its networks for the delivery of DTV, broadband and VoIP services.

Microsoft Corp. will supply Internet Protocol TV software for the network, while Alcatel SA will help build it.

SBC, based in San Antonio, Texas, is already the nation's largest DSL provider, with about 4 million customers for the service. SBC currently sells TV service through a partnership with EchoStar.

The company will focus on the 13 states where it provides local calling service, including Texas, California and Nevada.