Broadband

I went to the Berea Tourism Office last week to fix a few problems and update their software. While there I needed to download one of the updates from Microsoft and after opening Internet Explorer I heard a noise I didn't realize I missed. The “squelch” of a modem handshaking had become as much a part of my life the past 10 years as eating dinner, but I believe it’s been months since I logged onto the Internet with a fax modem. I have worked on several PC’s with modems, but when I need something from the Internet I usually find it much more convenient to log on using a Broadband high-speed connection.

Broadband Internet connections are by far the hottest advancing technologies this year. Many areas now offer Broadband solutions and some areas offer multiple options. If you have never experienced the power and speed of a Broadband connection you don’t know what you’re missing. From full screen video, countless audio sources, sharper images and enhanced animation the world of Broadband is so far beyond the capabilities of a 56k modem the possibilities are virtually limitless.

Broadband connections come in many forms and each technology works a little different and varies in costs. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, but which one is right for you may very well depend solely on availability.

Here is a comparison of some of the Broadband solutions offered in the Berea area. Some services are not offered in all areas so check with the provider for availability in your area.

Speed in Kbps based on basic residential services.

CABLE BROADBAND

Cable Broadband connections are by far the fastest growing and most popular. Cable offers very high-speed possibilities with reasonable costs. Equipment requirement usually consists of a USB port or Ethernet adapter. Unlike DSL services that usually give you a free modem the cable company thought it would be better to rent their modems. Be sure to add this rental fee to the overall cost (Our chart includes the rental fee) when considering cable access. Also keep in mind that you must be a cable TV subscriber to use cable broadband, making it extremely expensive for dish customers. The Only Cable provider in the Berea area is Adelphia. You can find more information and exact availability on their web site at www.adelphia.com.

DSL BROADBAND

DSL Service is provided via the telephone line. Distance limits make DSL an option only for locations close to the central telephone office. In Berea the office is located on Center St. past the Berea College Log House. DSL is a very reliable service with good speed and no hidden costs. DSL equipment costs are the same as cable, but as I mentioned before the modem is often provided for free. Alltel is the primary provider of DSL services in the Berea area. For more information and exact availability you can contact Alltel at www.alltel.com.

SATELLITE SERVICE

There are several satellite broadband providers, but the largest and most economical seems to be Direcway. Direcway (formerly DirecPC) offers two-way satellite service and is available virtually everywhere in the nation. The speed is less than that of DSL or cable, but for areas without those services this is the only option. Direcway offers services through super ISP Earthlink and as an extra service through DirecTV. Equipment costs are very high and run around $600.00. Unlike the other broadband services installation is difficult and often requires a professional. You can contact Direcway at www.direcway.com.

Based on basic residential service fees.

TechTalk
produced and distributed by DataStar Productions
written by Chad Hembree