Telecom Vanuatu has announced a new internet connection option – ADSL, available in Home or Pro packages. This week, we look at ADSL in a bit more detail to see how it differs from the existing dialup and wireless internet connections, and the pros and cons of ADSL.
Firstly, what does “ADSL” stand for? ADSL is Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line. The most important word is the first one – it means that the speed of data transfer is markedly different when downloading compared to uploading ie. you will receive webpages and attachments much more quickly than when sending the same amount of information eg. in an outbound email.
The key benefit of ADSL is that it uses existing telephone lines AND it allows you to simultaneously be connected to the internet while using a normal phone – over the same phone wire. One phone line for both internet and phone, yet both work at the same time. No need for a second, dedicated phone line for internet, and no need to be unreachable for long periods while surfing the Net.
ADSL is similar to dialup in that you need a modem, although it must be an ADSL modem. You cannot use a dialup modem when you change over to ADSL, alas, so this means spending around Vt10,000 to Vt40,000 for hardware and its installation before you can start using an ADSL package. They are reasonably priced (as Vanuatu prices go). Note that one option gives you wireless access – plug the ADSL modem into the phone line, and give multiple wireless-enabled computers access to the internet from wherever you want to put them. No wires required! Double-check the security configuration if you choose this though, or you'll be giving your neighbours free internet access.
There are no upload or download limits on both ADSL packages. This is an amazingly generous offer when compared to Marlin, which imposes high penalty rates for downloads above the monthly allowance. Theoretically, you can download music, videos, games, whatever you like, for as long as you like. This has not been sustainable in other countries, so ADSL users would be well advised to keep an eye out for changing terms and conditions.
Also, bear in mind that while ADSL speeds are likely to be good within Vanuatu (ie. local websites, chatting/skyping to local people), international data links need to expand to meet demand. With more and more people getting faster and faster internet links, connections between Vanuatu and the rest of the world get increasingly congested, especially at peak times. Accordingly, ADSL may not give you the speed you might expect unless you use it at antisocial times!
Finally, ADSL is not available to everyone - you will need a good phone line in TVL-designated areas (ADSL requires special equipment in your phone 'exchange'). However, coverage should be much better than the line-of-sight requirement for Marlin connections.
For your convenience, this article and its links can be found on merlinpacific.net - discuss this or any other IT topic online with VIGNET (Vanuatu Internet User Group) - register free at http://lists.spc.int/mailman/listinfo/vignet_lists.spc.int All welcome!
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- Tony Phelps is part of the Merlin Pacific IT team, dedicated to effective & efficient business IT.
