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What is ADSL?

Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) is a broadband technology capable of transferring data 20 to 40 times faster than conventional 56K modem based services. An advantage of ADSL is that it enables high speed Internet data to be delivered over ordinary telephone lines. It is even possible to use the same telephone line to make (or receive) telephone calls while you are browsing the web or downloading email!

How does it work?

ADSL services transfer data between the telephone exchange and client side equipment (modem) over ordinary copper telephone wires. The ADSL modem at the clients premises automatically analyses the quality of data transmission and continually adjusts it's performance parameters to ensure high grade transmission is maintained.

What is 'commercial grade' ADSL?

Several different 'grades' of ADSL service are available. Red Centre only offers a commercial grade service. This service is available to domestic and commercial clients. This service is a faster more stable than the alternatives. In addition the commercial service includes a fixed IP address and six 'routable' public IP addresses. Red Centre actively monitors the performance of all commercial grade services.

Is ADSL available everywhere?
Several factors determine the availability of ADSL:

Telephone exchange support

Your local telephone exchange must support ADSL. Not all exchanges support ADSL. Contact Red Centre to find out if your local exchange is ADSL capable.

Proximity to the telephone exchange

A distance limitation is associated with ADSL services. To connect to an ADSL service the connection point (in your home or office) must be within 3.5km of the exchange. This distance is measured as the total cable length from the exchange to the connection point. The distance will be assessed as part of the qualification process when you apply for ADSL connectivity.

Exchange capacity

Your local exchange must have spare ADSL ports. If ports are not available at the time of your application, the application will be delayed until additional ports are installed.

Your telephone line passes qualification checks.

ADSL is not compatable with all telephone services. Your telephone line will fail qualification checks if you have any of the following service types:

EasyCall Multiple Number
Duet®- Phone and Fax Multiple Number
Onramp
Telstra Home Highway
Pair Gain

What hardware do I need?
A modem or modem / router is used connect to the Red Centre ADSL service. For a single computer it is possible to use an internal or external modem. If you are connecting multiple computer systems you will also require a router. Several ADSL connection products include both a modem and a router within the same device.

How does an ADSL modem connect to the Internet?
The modem (or modem / router) connects to the ADSL service via an ordinary telephone line. The ADSL Setup page includes a diagram detailing a basic connection. In addition to the physical connection, it is also necessary to program the modem with a username and password. Red Centre will provide you with a username and password when you initially subscribe to the service.