The use of coherent multi-carrier (CMC) techniques in the integrated broad-band communication (IBC) network is up by Philips (prime contractor), the Heinrich-Hertz-Institute, Plessev. Siemens. IMEC. and LEp. and switching issues. Details on the realization of a CMC demonstrator for a customer access and plans for implementation of the engineered equipment in field trials are presented. Work is being carried out within the framework of the European Community RACE (Research and development in Advanced Communications technologies in Europe) projects.