Recent experiments have demonstrated the feasibility of both low- and high-speed 800 nm transmission on 1300 nm optimized single-mode fiber. Such a system is attractive for the local distribution network, because it combines the high performance of single-mode fiber with the low cost of short-wavelength opto-electronic devices. This paper provides an overview of this technology. System design considerations, including splice and connector requirements to minimize mode coupling and modal noise at misaligned joints, and the choice of sources to optimize the trade-off between modal noise and material dispersion, are discussed.