Frequently Asked Questions
What is the “wireless” difference?
Once you've bought a modem and plugged it into your computer or laptop, you'll be online in minutes. However, with wireless broadband technology, you won't need to use your phone line. You can take your modem with you anywhere as long as it is within a coverage area.
Your network provider can deliver you broadband-like speeds, say up to 1024 kilobits per second, to a range of devices that connect directly to your Personal Computer or Laptop.
The network is made up of a series of towers, all placed in and around coverage area. This allows the delivery of high speed internet access anywhere, free of the cables, telephone lines, and costly installations often accompanied with traditional broadband and dialup access.
What are the benefits of wireless over wired?
There is no right-of-way limitations so wireless is immediately available. Most wireless systems can be installed and operational within a few hours (no excavation of sidewalks or streets, no or limited building permits, etc.). License-free frequencies are available at no cost and, if required, may also be obtained by end users or carriers.
Wireless broadband network operators can own and operate their own wireless infrastructure (whereas copper and fibre connections usually require monthly leased line fees paid to telephone companies). By estimates, wireless systems offer a return on investment of several months, versus the years it may take for wired solutions, thus wireless systems enjoy lower cost, more flexibility and often higher reliability.
How fast is Wireless Internet?
The speed of your wireless internet connection depends on the plan you purchase. At an absolute maximum, depending on weather conditions and radio interference in your area, your connection can receive information at about 1.544mb per second.
Is wireless faster than ADSL?
Yes because ADSL, Cable Modems, ISDN are all dependent on physical wires, and a middle man (i.e. phone company). No wires, meaning, Wireless Internet access deals directly with the ISP -- there is no middle man.
What do I need to access wireless broadband?
A typical set-up for a broadband wireless Internet connection:
- Computer (Pentium or higher, 32 MB or higher, Windows 95 or higher)
- ISA Network card (Wireless modem that will go into your computer)
- Small Cable (This is the cable used to connect from the ISA card to the large LMR cable) Large LMR Cable (A large, low loss, cable used for carrying a signal up to your dish)
- Grid Dish (A directional dish that points at one of our Internet access points)
- Mounting brackets (Used for securing your grid dish to a roof, or existing TV tower)
- An additional Access Point will be needed for businesses that would like to share Internet access with multiple computers on there network.
How long will it take to install?
Once your location has been surveyed and approved, a date will be set for installing your unit. It could take as little as 1 hour or several days as each location and applications differs in the degree of difficulty.
What other conveniences does wireless broadband offers?
No need for a phone line or cable connection; fast Internet access at speeds up to 1Mbps, and anywhere, within the coverage area.
You can actually buy your broadband access connection from any retail partners of network providers or buy online with guaranteed faster delivery.
Some service providers do not charge transfer or connection fees even if you move areas. There are no surprises at the end of the month because there are no excess usage charges
What does the equipment look like?
The size of antennas range from a 14" long round pole, to a 24" x 36" grilled directional unit. They materials are lightweight and are no more difficult to install that a DishTV or DirectTV dish. The cables used for exterior mounting come in set lengths, but can be ordered shorter or longer, depending on the application. The cables - fairly stiff and should not be bent too sharply - are 1/2" and 3/4" in diameter, with slightly larger connectors. The two most common cable types are LMR-500 and LMR-400.
Is Internet access unlimited?
Because your computer is always connected with wireless Internet access - 24 hours a day 7 days a week 365 days a year, there are no time limits or restrictions of how long you can use it.
What are the bad points about wireless Internet?
Wireless Internet connections require direct radio line of sight with exceptions for building within 100m from the access point. Depending on location, installation costs can vary greatly. If the costs saddles, in the long run, it is offset by saving in recurring telephone costs, increase in speed and reliability.
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