on 11/1/05 1:19 PM, Carolyn Harvey at [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: > I'm jazzed! Live in the boonies where broadband has been limited to > the very expensive and unsatisfactory satellite service, but starting > really soon my ISP is offering wireless DSL to a wide coverage area, > and WE'RE IN IT, and they support Macs! > > They will be offering several plans depending on the throughput speed > the customer wants to pay for. The two fastest, 1.25 and 2.0 Mbps, > are too expensive for us on our little hobby farm; but we're > considering the basic (500Kbps, at $50/mo) or advanced home/office > (750Kbps, $70).
Is that _up to_ 500/750 Kbps? Or is the above given as a _guaranteed_ speed? This is an important distinction. Before you sign up for anything, make sure that they define for you _exactly_ what speeds you'll be getting. In writing, if possible. > Those of you in the know, are the extra 250Kbps worth the extra $20/month? Prolly not, but frankly, only *you* would be able to answer that question. While 750Kpbs isn't that great relative to possible DSL speeds, it is (theoretically) a 50% boost in download speed compared to the 500Kbps package. What else are you planning to use the line for (besides the below)? Also, as has been asked, what are they quoting you for upload speeds? >Will either of these speeds be good for video chat and streaming video? I'm so >excited! Thanks for any input. One thing that's worth looking into: will your ISP let you switch back and forth between plans without incurring a penalty? If they're any good, they'll want to keep you happy. This means being able to upgrade an existing package to a higher speed. Likewise, if the higher speed doesn't work out, you should be able to downgrade again. Of course, they may treat upgrades/downgrades as occasions to "reset" your contract term, but that should be the only thing you get dinged on. If possible, you'll want to get their upgrade/downgrade policy in writing. If that isn't possible, _at least_ start out by getting contact information for the rep you're dealing with. It may not be bombproof, but frequently, you'll be treated better if you make it known at the outset that you intend to hold someone personally accountable for what the ISP promises you. Best, James Fraser -- G-List is sponsored by <http://lowendmac.com/> and... Small Dog Electronics http://www.smalldog.com | Refurbished Drives | -- We have Apple Refurbished Monitors in stock! | & CDRWs on Sale! | Support Low End Mac <http://lowendmac.com/lists/support.html> G-List list info: <http://lowendmac.com/lists/g-list.shtml> --> AOL users, remove "mailto:"; Send list messages to: <mailto:[email protected]> To unsubscribe, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> For digest mode, email: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Subscription questions: <mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED]> Archive: <http://www.mail-archive.com/g-list%40mail.maclaunch.com/> iPod Accessories for Less at 1-800-iPOD.COM Fast Delivery, Low Price, Good Deal www.1800ipod.com
