Why broadband?
'Broadband' means fast: faster data services, faster page draws, and faster downloads. It is fast because it offers better 'bandwidth', or data-carrying capacity, than a dial-up connection.
‘Broadband’ means always on: when you’re connected via broadband, you no longer need to dial to connect to the Internet. The connection is always available, and you only need start your PC, your browser or your email application to access it.
ADSL Connections
ADSL connection to broadband makes better use of your existing phone lines. A Plain Old Telephone Service (‘POTS’) consists of a twisted pair of wires. ADSL utilises the unused potential capacity of these wires by sending and receiving data at a different frequency to that used for voice and fax traffic.
The ‘A’ is for ‘asymmetric’ – ADSL provides much faster services ‘downstream’ – to your computer – than ‘upstream’ – back out to the internet – which suits anyone who downloads more data than they send, including most home/small office users.
NetComm ADSL Solutions
NetComm has the products and the expertise to make it all so simple. Through NetComm's unique 'Easy Config' system, our broadband products are only a couple of clicks from connection. Why? Because NetComm is an Australian company that develops products for Australian users and Australian Internet Service Providers.
Our range of wired and wireless ADSL Modems, Gateways and Routers are supported by friendly support staff - speak to a real person, not a computer! - as well as our unique Onscreen Videos which show you, step by step, how easy it is to get connected with a NetComm ADSL modem.
ADSL Availability
Apart from an ADSL modem at your end, an ADSL service also requires connection at the telephone exchange, which in turn depends on whether the exchange is equipped for ADSL. Distance from the exchange is also a factor, with the service extending 4Km from the exchange at present. This is why ADSL is not available everywhere.
Performance
Several levels of DSL service are available, with the faster services being charged at a higher rate. Entry-level DSL download rates start at 256Kbps, around 4 times faster than the 56Kbps offered by the fastest dial-up modems; a fast ADSL service is 1.5Mbps download and 512Kbps upload [usually written as 1.5Mbps/512Kbps].
Symmetrical DSL (‘SHDSL’) is another kind of DSL service, offering high data rates in both directions; click on the SHDS Tab for more information.
Line Filters and Splitters
Installation of ADSL requires the use of filters or splitters to separate the data channel from the voice and fax service. If the service remains unfiltered, telephone users will hear interference signals, and phone use will frequently cause the ADSL service to temporarily disconnect.
Filters are placed between each analog device and the wall socket; alternatively a splitter can be installed which separates the lines as they come into the house or office.
Find out more
Want to find out more or need to know something specific? Send an enquiry to NetComm about ADSL now.
