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What is ADSL?
ADSL stands for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line. It transforms the
standard telephone line between a local telephone exchange and a
customer's telephone socket into a high-speed digital line. It is called
'asymmetric' because it moves data more quickly from exchange to
customer than from customer to exchange. This makes it particularly
suitable for surfing the Internet or downloading large files.
How does ADSL Work?
ADSL divides up the available frequencies in a line on the assumption
that most Internet users download much more information than they send.
Under this assumption, if the connection speed from the Internet to the
user is three to four times faster than the connection from the user
back to the Internet, the user will see the most benefit.
What is the difference between ADSL and other types of DSL service?
ADSL is one of several types of DSL Internet connectivity. Other
types are VDSL, SDSL and RADSL. VDSL is a fast connection, but works
only over a short distance. SDSL is used mainly by small businesses and
does not allow concurrent phone usage. RADSL is a variation of ADSL
where the speed is periodically adjusted. ADSL is the most common type
of DSL service today.
How fast is ADSL Internet Service?
ADSL supports data rates of from 1.5 to 9 Mbps when receiving data
and from 16 to 640 Kbps when sending data. Data rates differ
significantly depending on the distance from the telephone exchange,
line quality and other factors.
What does 'Upstream' and 'Downstream' mean?
'Upstream' describes the flow of information (data) from your
computer to the telephone exchange. 'Downstream' describes the flow of
information from the exchange to your computer.
Does transmission speed vary among subscribers?
Yes. If your phone line is too low quality, you might not be able to
obtain ADSL, particularly if you are located far from your telephone
exchange. If you are 5.5 kilometers from your telephone exchange, you
might obtain a 512k connection, whereas if you are 3.5 kilometers away,
your connection could be 1024k or 2048k.
How do I know if ADSL would work in my home?
A line test can be carried out and a reading taken in decibels to
determine your eligibility for ADSL.
Can anyone with a telephone line obtain ADSL service?
No. Some users may not be able to access ADSL services because their
local telephone exchange has not yet been enabled to provide this
service.
How far can an ADSL signal be transmitted?
ADSL is a distance dependant technology which means that you need to
be located within 5.5 kilometres of your local exchange in order to be
able to obtain service.
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