Connecting the Coast has been investigating various ways to improve broadband connectivity to your personal requirements.
Whilst negotiations continue with services for residential users we have tested 3G wireless signals in our region. This is part of a pilot program to identify better ways to provide options to copper networks if you don’t have capability.
The pilot is being used to establish a business case for a more extensive wireless testing program. Looking at WiMax signals wifi and all 3G signals if the results warrant going to the next stage.
How can you improve your connection with wireless devices?
Like your television reception, the use of antenna can boost the wireless signal. You will need to confirm with your selected carrier that their equipment can have antennas attached and to recommend where/how they should be installed.
How can you use this information to improve your connectivity?
It is worth trialling your connection using www.speedtest.net (please note this is not a Connecting the Coast website and this site has advertising that is not endorsed or supported in anyway by the Connecting the Coast Project Team) and monitor the same information we have - date and time with the three results. We encourage you to test your own connection and let us know your results for downloading, uploading and the PING.
Keep in mind, wireless signals can vary in quality at different levels throughout the day. Some locations may require an external aerial to improve your service. When you are working within 3G broadband coverage, you will on average experience much faster access and download speeds than dial up access speeds. Various factors such as coverage, your location, your hardware and software, the source of your download and general network and internet traffic, which all may impact on actual speeds youll experience.
Connecting the Coast is developing its ability to assist communities to make their own informed decisions. Hopefully our testing is providing you an opportunity to explore other options for your connectivity.
How can you be a part of this test - Get Involved!
Black Spot Pilot Test
How did we test the 3G wireless connection?
- We used an AZUS Eee PC running on Windows XP plus IE V6 at www.speedtest.net (please note this is not a Connecting the Coast website and this site has advertising that is not endorsed or supported in anyway by the Connecting the Coast Project Team).
- The location of the test was recorded by GPS and recorded in a database with the date and time of recording.
- A test of Telstra NextG was undertaken with a USB PrePaid modem rated 3.6 MB and practical up to 1.8MB (theoretical)
- A test of Optus 3G service was completed with a USB Prepaid modem rated at 7.2MB and practical up to 3.6MB (theoretical)
- The speed test returns three numbers:
- PING, which is the timing for the download and upload;
- Upload speed; and
- Download speed.
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