A broadband awareness initiative
About Broadband
Definition
An abbreviation from the words 'Broad Bandwidth', the term broadband describes the wide range of frequencies that can be transmitted through communication channels (i.e. Internet). The wider your bandwidth is, the greater the amount of information that can be transmitted simultaneously.
Broadband is defined by the ABS (http://www.abs.gov.au/) as an 'always on' Internet connection which can access the Internet at speeds equal to, or greater than 256kbps. Whereas your typical Dial-up connection speed is limited to 56kbps.
What are the different types of Broadband available?
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ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line):
Most Providers will usually offer common speeds starting from 256kbps/64kbps (download/upload) then usually raise the increments thereafter to 512kbps/128kbps and 1500kbps/256kbps
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ADSL/2+:
ADSL2 speeds range between 8,000 kbps (8Mbps)to 12,000kbps down, while ADSL 2+ speeds are anywhere from 12,000kbps to 24,000kbps down. It's very rare these days to see an ISP supplying a Broadband service using ADSL2 speeds. You'll find that most Providers will advertise ADSL products up to 1500kbps or 8,000 kbps, and skip ADSL2 in favour for ADSL2+ 24,000 kbps (24Mbps) plans.
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Cable (Fibre Optic)
Most Cable Providers are currently offering Cable connections speeds of up to 8 Mbps, 9.9Mbps,17Mbps and 30Mps, although future potential speeds will be very much faster. It's worth noting that Cable's robust technology not only offers very fast broadband, it can also carry VoIP & Pay TV services simultaneously without interference.
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Wireless
Common practical download speeds for wireless range between 200 kpbs to 3000 kpbs (3.0Mbps). These speeds are generally equivalent to the lower end speeds of ADSL. Wireless technology is constantly being improved and has the potential to reach maximum speeds far greater than those experienced at the highest level of ADSL2+.
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Satellite
The popularity of Satellite Broadband has remained a gradual process due to the perceived high costs involved with its technology. New packages are on offer by a variety of Satellite providers.
Case Studies
Innovation
Information Technology is changing the way organisations around the world are doing business. Wireless, IP telephony and other network solutions are being utilised to improve safety, enhance services, and generate educational excellence. However, many organisations are using technology in isolation — they are connected internally, but lack the community connectivity that can foster innovation and collaboration across a variety of different organisations and industries, as well as drive a competitive economy.
Premier David Bartlett's vision of being 'clever, kind and connected' allows us to come together as 'one' community to discuss creating an integrated, regional IT plan that promotes interconnectivity and regional development. Tasmania will benefit tremendously by leading the National Broadband Network rollout in Australia. We already have some fibre optic network in place here to facilitate this type of community connectivity. We also have innovative organisations that would benefit from a shared, community network.
By utilising a regional broadband network with innovative applications and services, we can change the way Tasmanians work, live and learn. Organisations can share vital information and resources, and collaborate on initiatives that otherwise would not have been possible.
