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This list of frequently asked questions can provide some valuable information about DSL and its importance today. This list will be updated with more current information as it becomes available.
What is DSL?
What is ADSL?
How does DSL compare to other Internet connections?
How fast is DSL?
What equipment will I need?
What are the minimum computer requirements?
Can I use multiple computers at the same time?
Do I need another telephone line to use DSL?
Can I use my telephone and the Internet at the same time?
Is DSL available in my area?
When can I order DSL?
Where can I get more information about DSL?
Answers:
What is DSL?
DSL stands for "Digital Subscriber Line." DSL is a new technology that uses regular telephone lines to transmit high speed digital data. DSL is quickly becoming the most popular means for fast Internet access.
What is ADSL?
"Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line" is the most commonly used form of DSL. It is called asymmetric because data travels faster downstream (to your computer) than it does upstream (to the Internet). ADSL is the service being offered by Coastside Net.
How does DSL compare to other Internet connections?
Unlike most other Internet connections, DSL is "always on." This means that you are connected to the Internet 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (this means no more dialing or disconnecting from the Internet!).
How fast is DSL?
DSL brings unparalled speed right to your doorstep. High speed DSL lines can provide speeds up to 6 Mbps to your computer. Consider the following comparisons:
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Time to Download 7.5 MB (video file) |
1.5 Mbps ADSL
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40 Seconds |
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384 Kbps ADSL
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2.4 Minutes |
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128 Kbps ISDN
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7 Minutes |
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28.8 Kbps
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35 Minutes |
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14.4 Kbps
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71 Minutes |
What Equipment will I need?
A DSL Modem (or Router) is required. Other hardware may be needed if you want to network additional computers. A typical DSL setup requires a DSL Modem, an Ethernet card for your computer and a Splitter for the telephone line. You can purchase all of the required DSL equipment from Coastside Net when you sign up for DSL Service.
What are the minimum computer requirements?
You will need a PC running Windows 98 or NT or a MacIntosh running MacOS 7.5.1 or higher. 8 MB of RAM is required, although 16 MB of RAM is recommended. If you have questions about the computer requirements please contact us.
Can I use multiple computers at the same time?
Yes, DSL is ideal for connecting multiple computers to the Internet. Additional hardware is required to connect multiple computers.
Do I need another telephone line to use DSL?
No. ADSL uses your existing telephone wire. A "Splitter" device will be installed on the telephone line to split the telephone signals and the DSL data. Because the DSL service uses the same wires as your telephone, no additional lines are needed.
Can I use my telephone and Internet at the same time?
Absolutely. The splitter installed on your telephone line will allow you to use your DSL service and your regular telephone services at the same time.
Is DSL available in my area?
DSL is a distance-limited service and your location must be within 18,000 feet (approximately 3.5 miles) of the Pacific Bell central office to get DSL service. To verify that you are eligible for DSL service please fill out our online DSL Request form.
When can I order DSL?
Coastside Net's DSL Connect service is available now in Half Moon Bay, Moss Beach, Montara and Pacifica. To determine if you are eligible for DSL service, please fill out our DSL Request form.
Where can I get more information about DSL?
The following web sites are excellent resources for DSL information:
www.dslcenter.com
alumni.caltech.edu/~dank/isdn/adsl.html (out of date but a good resource center)
whatis.com/dsl.htm (very detailed)
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