Frequently Asked Questions - ADSL

What is Broadband?

Broadband is a generic term for High Speed, always on internet connections. The minimum speed of the connection is 256Kbps which is around 5 times faster than a standard modem.

Types of Broadband Available

Wideband offers two types of Broadband access - ADSL & Fixed Wireless.

ADSL is available in most major towns and is delivered over the phone line provided you live within 4km of an enabled local Telephone exchange.

Fixed Wireless is a high speed Broadband service delivered over the air waves similar to TV or mobile phones and offers a far greater coverage area than ADSL.

Can l get ADSL Broadband?

ADSL is available on a large number of exchanges. You should be aware that ADSL is not available on all phone lines even if your exchange is enabled. Factors such as line distance and technology blockers can prevent you from getting ADSL. Where you can't get ADSL, we may be able to provide a low cost Fixed Wireless service.

What are technology blockers?

There are a number of systems that can prevent you from getting ADSL some of these include:

• Transmission loss too high (too far from the exchange)
• Incompatible line - RIM (Means you are connected to a local concentrator)
• Incompatible line - Pair Gain (Means the line is shared or split)
• Other miscellaneous reasons (e.g. phone number / address miss-match)

These blockers only affect the minority of customers. Once an application is received and processed we can tell if you will be affected. If we are unable to connect your service, you will not liable for any charges.

What type of computer do I need?

ADSL will work on most laptop and desktop computers. We can offer support on PC's running Win XP, Win ME, and Win 2000. You will need a network card installed on your computer. If you are running Windows 98, or older it may not work and we are unable to offer support. If you are using a Macintosh computer our support is limited.

Why do I need line filters?

Without the correct number of line filters installed your phones can interfere with your broadband service. When they are correctly installed you can make phone calls while surfing the net. You need to have one line filter for every phone or fax device that you have.

I have an Alarm on my phone line, is this a problem?

Its not a problem, however you will need to have a line filter installed onto the Alarm like any other telephone device. It needs to be professionally installed as most alarm systems are wired in a way that keeps them separate from your normal phone sockets. Your alarm will not function correctly if a line filter is not installed.

What is involved in Joining?

Joining Wideband Networks is easy. There is a simple application form required and then we take care of the rest. Unlike most other Broadband providers, we can provide an end to end solution, this means that:

• We pre-configure your ADSL modem and ship it to you with your account details for self install.
• We can configure your computer to run the internet at its best (under our optional professional installation option).
• We provide a full service helpdesk should you run in to difficulties.

Click Here for details of our plans and application form

How much does it cost?

There are a number of different plans to suit all customers. We also have a range of installation options with either short or longer contract lengths to keep your installation costs to a minimum.

Click Here for details of our plans and application form.

What if I have more than one computer or a laptop?

If you have more than one computer, or a laptop, you may wish to upgrade to a wireless modem. This allows a wireless connection within your premises. If you don't already have a wireless card built in you will also require one of these for each computer if going with the wireless option.

How long does it take to be connected?

Typically ADSL connections are available within 14 days. This allows for your line to be activated and for us to post your connection pack. Sometimes it will be quicker, sometimes a little longer, it just depends on the number of applications that are being processed.

Installation

This Wideband ADSL broadband service is provided to you on a self install basis. You will receive your modem and line filter (dependent on plan) with details to set up your connection.

Our free help desk service is available to assist you in setting up, if required, just phone us on 1300 731 821.

We also provide an installation service in the Latrobe Valley for $50 should you wish a technician to come and set up you broadband service.