What is broadband?
Broadband is a fast connection to the internet (up to 10 times faster
than an ordinary connection). The connection is always on, i.e. you do
not need to dial up to the internet. Web pages appear almost immediately
and files are downloaded quickly.
Types of broadband
There are four ways broadband can be delivered to the consumer: cable,
ADSL, wireless and satellite.
Cable is good but we don't have it in the village.
ADSL is being installed by BT and involves converting the telephone exchange.
The further you are from the telephone exchange, the poorer the service.
Satellite is available to individuals but is relatively expensive, requires
a satellite dish and has a signal delay of several seconds (which restricts
its use).
Wireless is a good alternative to ADSL. It is just as fast, there are
no signal delays or distance limitations and it is easy to install.
What is ADSL?
ADSL will be installed by BT in Novemeber. They will convert the telephone
exchange. Each subscriber buys some equipment that joins their computer
to their existing telephone line. No engineer is needed. Normal telephone
calls can be made at the same time as being connected to the internet.
Broadband Packages
Many ISPs offer ADSL, including BT. It is important to choose the best
ISP for you, especially because many lock you into a 12 month contract
period. See the Discussion Board for more details. Or visit http://www.adslguide.org.uk/isps/compare.asp
to see some comparisons.
What is wireless broadband?
Wireless broadband in Balcombe would be a network of 4 or 5 small aerials
fitted to rooftops spread throughout the village. Each customer would
have a small radio receiver fitted to their house. It is completely separate
from the telephone network.
Who offers wireless broadband?
LTT has installed wireless in Spain and Sweden, with work underway
in Belgium and the Netherlands. It has its own fibre network across Europe
and manufactures its own equipment, unlike most ISPs. Their installation
in Balcombe has been delayed due to circumstances beyond their control.
An advantage of using LTT is that they manufacture their own equipment
and own their own landlines. This means they are not dependent on third
parties, which is often a problem experienced by ISPs.
Click here to see a map of the proposed
LTT coverage of the UK.
Click here to see
more details about their proposed installation.
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