Internet Access Alternatives - Revision history

Pblair: /* VDSL */

2014-03-31T03:33:08Z

VDSL

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:33, 31 March 2014
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	* '''VDSL Discounts/bundling'''		* '''VDSL Discounts/bundling'''

	TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. ~~Whereas~~ ~~previously~~ ~~there~~ ~~were bundle~~ ~~options~~ ~~available~~, ~~this~~ ~~may~~ ~~now~~ ~~only~~ ~~apply~~ to ~~legacy~~ ~~customers.~~ If ~~you~~ ~~are~~ ~~making~~ ~~enquiries~~ ~~about~~ ~~signing~~ up ~~for~~ ~~VDSL,~~ ~~ask~~ ~~about~~ ~~possible~~ ~~savings~~.		TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. However a recent sign-up reported that, with 5 services on his account (water and sewerage don't count) he got a 10% discount on certain items. Check your situation with TransACT if you plan to connect.

	== More Information ==		== More Information ==

Pblair at 04:00, 28 March 2014

2014-03-28T04:00:41Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:00, 28 March 2014
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	At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.		At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.

	~~====~~ VDSL Physical ~~====~~		* '''VDSL Physical'''

	From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.		From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.
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	TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.		TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.

	~~====~~ Is VDSL available at your location? ~~====~~		* '''Is VDSL available at your location?'''

	Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.		Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.

	~~====~~ VDSL Options ~~====~~		* '''VDSL Options'''

	There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV		There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV

	~~====~~ VDSL Costs ~~====~~		* '''VDSL Costs'''

	Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.		Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.

	~~====~~ VDSL Discounts/bundling ~~====~~		* '''VDSL Discounts/bundling'''

	TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.		TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.

Pblair at 23:21, 26 March 2014

2014-03-26T23:21:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:21, 26 March 2014
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	At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.		At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.

	==== Physical ====		==== VDSL Physical ====

	From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.		From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.
Line 77:		Line 77:
	TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.		TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.

	==== Is it available at your location? ====		==== Is VDSL available at your location? ====

	Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.		Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.

	==== Options ====		==== VDSL Options ====

	There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV		There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV

	==== Costs ====		==== VDSL Costs ====

	Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.		Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.

	==== Discounts/bundling ====		==== VDSL Discounts/bundling ====

	TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.		TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.

Pblair at 23:20, 26 March 2014

2014-03-26T23:20:29Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:20, 26 March 2014
Line 65:		Line 65:
	At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.		At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.

	=== Physical ===		==== Physical ====

	From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.		From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.
Line 77:		Line 77:
	TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.		TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.

	=== Is it available at your location? ===		==== Is it available at your location? ====

	Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.		Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.

	=== Options ===		==== Options ====

	There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV		There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV

	=== Costs ===		==== Costs ====

	Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.		Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.

	=== Discounts/bundling ===		==== Discounts/bundling ====

	TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.		TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.
	=== Cable ===

	In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. You will want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

	In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

	== More Information ==		== More Information ==

Pblair at 23:18, 26 March 2014

2014-03-26T23:18:35Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:18, 26 March 2014
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	In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.		In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

			=== VDSL ===

			In the ACT region TransACT provides a wired (VDSL1 or VDSL2) service to many areas of Canberra that can provide phone, broadband internet and payTV.

			At the time of writing, activity on rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) has slowed. Internet service providers are examining, testing and installing networks that they believe will fit whatever broadband model is decided to complete the NBN, and remain in place even when the NBN is operational.

			One such technology is VDSL (or sometimes VHDSL) - the 'V' stands for 'very fast', and 'DSL' is 'digital subscriber line'. VDSL (more correctly identified in Canberra as VDSL(M))has been used in various places since 2002, and the second generation (VDSL2) since 2006.

			To get an idea of world use of VDSL, there is an article [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Very-high-bit-rate_digital_subscriber_line here]

			VDSL(M) raised an upgrade problem when transitioning to VDSL2, so a 'whole of precinct' upgrade was required in those cases.

			In Canberra, VDSL uses its own cable infrastructure for the most part and does not depend on Telstra, except in some unit blocks.

			As with copper wire infrastructure, performance depends on distance from the node. For VDSL, the optimum range is about 300m.

			VDSL has typical optimised download speeds of 8 Mbps, while VDSL2 can range up to 60 Mbps. VDSL2 upload speeds are about 4 Mbps.

			At this moment (March/April 2014) VDSL is retailed only through TransACT. TransACT is a wholly owned subsidiary of iiNet (who also own Internode) and the expectation is that the three businesses will eventually merge totally or share plans, pricing and infrastructure. TPG are working in the wings, and may become a player soon.

			=== Physical ===

			From the cable at the house service point, VDSLx (ie, VDSL and VDSL2) is wired to a convenient point inside the premise using a 4-wire connection (sometimes Cat 5 cable is used if the length inside the premise warrants it.) However, each installation depends on a number of factors, and there will be variations from place to place. But there will be some physical cabling work required in a typical installation.

			The normal internal termination is a modem (supplied at a cost by TransACT, with the router feature disabled) and a set-top box (STB). Some users prefer to obtain a Fetch STB to replace the one supplied. A wireless router will be required if wi-fi is to be used.

			TransACT 'owns' all of the internal wiring and the modem.

			The STB will deliver all but the free-to-air (FTA) channels. For FTA, you need to plug an aerial into the STB and run an aerial wire to the TV. Other channels will depend on any subscriptions you may have.

			TransACT insist that you include your fixed-line phone in the installation. You can churn your existing phone number if you want.

			=== Is it available at your location? ===

			Go to the [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact TransACT page] and click on 'Can I get TransACT?' There are not many gaps in Canberra. It would be useful to know where the supernodes are in relation to you, but that information is not provided.

			=== Options ===

			There is a mix of options available for you to choose from. Information is [http://www.transact.com.au/internet/transact/vdsl/ here] for mixes of phone, broadband, Pay TV

			=== Costs ===

			Go to [http://www.transact.com.au/~/media/Files/productpdf/CIS-TransACT-Broadband%20VDSL.pdf Critical Information] for useful details and costs.

			=== Discounts/bundling ===

			TransACT no longer has an association with ACTEW. Whereas previously there were bundle options available, this may now only apply to legacy customers. If you are making enquiries about signing up for VDSL, ask about possible savings.
	=== Cable ===		=== Cable ===

Lpb: /* Cable */ Add note about TransACT ISPs

2014-01-29T10:16:02Z

Cable: Add note about TransACT ISPs

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:16, 29 January 2014
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	=== Cable ===		=== Cable ===

	In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.		In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. You will want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

	In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.		In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

Lpb: /* ADSL */ Add note about TransACT ISPs

2014-01-29T10:15:11Z

ADSL: Add note about TransACT ISPs

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:15, 29 January 2014
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	To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).		To use ADSL for Internet access you need an "ADSL Gateway" (likely including a WiFi access point as well) in your home, which connects over the phone-lines to a "digital subscriber line access multiplexer (DSLAM)" at the local exchange. One key distinction between providers is whether they own their own DSLAMs you connect to at the exchange, or whether they lease access to these from another provider (usually Telstra).

	In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.		In the ACT region there are many suppliers offering an ADSL service (for now, until the NBN rollout completes). If you have an existing TransACT ADSL service, then you will most likely want to choose one of the TransACT ISPs, either Grapevine or one of the others (which they don't make very obvious, but there are a number). The [http://bc.whirlpool.net.au/bc/ Whirlpool Broadband Choice] page can provide more information on them.

	=== Cable ===		=== Cable ===

Prichter: /* Mobile Broadband */

2013-12-20T05:03:25Z

Mobile Broadband

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:03, 20 December 2013
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	=== Mobile Broadband ===		=== Mobile Broadband ===

	The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. ~~[http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php Mobile Providers]~~		The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php resellers] (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available.

	You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.		You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.

Prichter: /* Mobile Broadband */

2013-12-20T05:01:54Z

Mobile Broadband

← Older revision		Revision as of 05:01, 20 December 2013
Line 7:		Line 7:
	=== Mobile Broadband ===		=== Mobile Broadband ===

	The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available.		The [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mobile_broadband Mobile Broadband] service is provided using mobile phone technologies. In all cases a suitable mobile subscription (and SIM card) will be needed, with some amount of data included. This subscription may be either pre or post-paid, with data either included in the base subscription, or purchased using some form of "add-on" data pack. The basic choice here is which major network (Telstra, Optus or Vodafone) you choose to connect to, and whether to purchase your subscription from them or from one of their resellers (Telstra - Aldi, Kogan, Boost, etc; Optus - Amaysim, Virgin, Vaya, Woolworths, etc; Vodafone - PennyTel, GoTalk, etc ). There are a very large number of alternatives available. [http://www.idd.com.au/mobile-providers.php Mobile Providers]

	You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.		You need to consider the mobile phone coverage area of the chosen network for the locations you want to access the service from, and be mindful of the various communication systems in use (3G-850/NextG, 3G-900, 3G-2100, 4G / LTE) as this will affect the hardware you will require.

Prichter: /* Cable */

2013-12-20T04:51:42Z

Cable

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:51, 20 December 2013
Line 49:		Line 49:
	In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.		In the ACT region [http://transact.com.au/ TransACT] provide a cable ([http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/VDSL VDSL1 or VDSL2]) service to some areas in Canberra, that can provide phone, broadband Internet and PayTV. These may be a suitable high-speed internet access option for those in cabled areas, with the VDSL2 upgrades being capable of 30-50Mbps. These services are not subject to the shutdown after NBN rollout.

	In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These ~~are~~ subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.		In some other major cities, Telstra and Optus operate a coaxial cable network that provides similar services. These may be subject to shutdown after the NBN rollout.

	== More Information ==		== More Information ==