DSL At Home|Frequently Asked Questions

DSL Q&A is divided into four sections:

Each category describes a particular aspect of DSL .

General

1. What is DSL?
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. DSL is a technology that transforms ordinary phone lines (also known as “twisted copper pairs”) into high-speed digital lines for blazing-fast Internet access. DSL also enables access to corporate networks for telecommuters, as well as exciting new interactive multimedia applications such as multiplayer gaming, video on demand and video catalogs at faster speeds.

2. How does DSL work?
DSL modems use digital coding techniques to squeeze up to 99% more capacity out of a phone line without interfering with your regular phone services. That means you could be simultaneously talking on the phone or sending a fax - while surfing the World Wide Web.

3.Why should I be willing to pay more for DSL?
DSL benefits include the following:

Simultaneous Internet and voice/fax capabilities over a single telephone line
High-speed Internet access up to 25 times faster than 56k dial-up service
DSL can be a cost effective solution for residential customers, telecommuters and small offices
DSL pricing is inclusive of local calls, i.e. there are no overcall charges
DSL premium packages include the following calling features: Call Waiting, Call Number Display, 3-Way Calling, Call Forwarding, Voicemail.

4. Do I use my same telephone number or does BTC have to issue a different phone number?
DSL works on the your current phone number.

5. Do I pay for my existing line and the new DSL line?
No, the new DSL rate replaces your current phone rate. You only pay one rate to BTC. The new DSL rate is inclusive of local call charges. (Internet Service Provider charges are not included with the DSL Rate)

6. Does the pricing for DSL include Internet access?
No. BTC is not an Internet Service Provider (ISP) and therefore does not provide Internet Access. As such, you will have to pay separately for your Internet access from you Internet Service Provider (ISP). Click here for a list of ISPs that can support DSL technology.

7. Will I be able to use other calling features that are not included in the DSL Premium packages?
Yes, simply inform our Customer Care Operators at 295-1001 as to which additional calling features you would like. These additional features can be purchased at the normal rate.

8. Can a DSL subscriber have multiple computers connected to the Internet?
Yes. However, a routing arrangement must be configured on your system. Please contact a DSL Retailer for more information.
(Subject to ISP Terms & Conditions)

9. Can a fax machine work with a DSL Line?
Fax machines can be used with DSL service.

10. Can I connect to my business network or LAN with DSL ?
DSL is ideal for accessing corporate networks because the high-speed allows for quick transmission of significant amounts of data.

11. How secure is my computer and LAN connection when using an “always on” dedicated Internet connection?
As with any connection to the Internet, you should take precautions to ensure that your data is secure. A DSL router can offer additional security. If you are connected to a LAN or WAN, you should take the standard precautions that most large systems employ. You should also explore the use of a firewall as well as other hardware and software applications.

12. How long will it take to convert my existing phone line to DSL service?
BTC will have your existing line converted to a DSL line within 3 to 10 business days, providing that your line is of a good quality to support DSL technology. A BTC representative will contact you to advise if your line is in good order.

13. What is PPPOE software?
PPPOE (Point to Point Protocol over Ethernet) is a specification for connecting multiple computer users to an ISP using an DSL modem . PPPOE allows multiple routing options for users. For example, users can have connections to more than one ISP or a corporate LAN.

14. Where do I get PPPOE software?
PPPOE software can be obtained from your ISP.

15. Will DSS Satellite TV service, and alarm systems work with DSL service?
DSS Satellite TV service and certain alarm systems that require connections to phone lines, interfere with DSL service. Alternative arrangements should be made if you have these services for example, you may choose to have your DSL service on a separate line.

Speed

16. What are the available DSL speeds?
DSL is available in speeds up to 256Kbps or up to 512Kbps upstream, and up to 1.5Mbps downstream. Please note that connection speeds beyond the BTC network are not under the control of BTC. Speeds will vary depending on ISP capacity and options, Internet traffic volume, and user equipment. Also, please refer to our terms and conditions.

17. What is Upstream and Downstream?
Upstream refers to any information that you send from your computer. This includes sending an email or conducting a search on a web site. Downstream is the information that is transmitted to your computer, such as a file that you download.

18. How do I upgrade from 256 kbps to 512 kbps?
If you would like to upgrade your package, call a BTC Customer Service Representative at 811 or send an email to customersupport@btc.bm.

Equipment

19. What are the minimum computer requirements for DSL ?
For a PC (IBM compatible) computer:
Pentium 166 MHz or equivalent - Windows 95, Windows 98, NT 4.0 Windows 2000 Client, ME -64 MB RAM - 75 MB Hard Disk Space - CD-ROM Drive - Ethernet Card - DSL Filter

For a Macintosh computer:
Power PC with 8.0 Operating System (or equivalent) -32 MB RAM -75 MB Hard Disk Space - CD-ROM Drive - Ethernet card -DSL filter.

20. Why is an DSL modem required?
In order to achieve data transmission rates of up to 25 times faster than analog modems, DSL technologies use a wider band of frequencies. Also, because DSL uses a digital signal, unlike today's analog modems, DSL transmissions do not pass through the regular analog voice telephone network. This element of DSL can clear the “congestion” that a lot of dial-up Internet traffic causes (the cause of delayed dial tone in certain high-Internet use areas).

21. Which modems are compatible with DSL ?
Click here to view a list of DSL modems.

22. What is the purpose of the filter?
The filter is a small junction connected between your phone line and phone jack, which keeps the voice channel clear of any interference on your line.

23. Where can I purchase DSL modems, filters and Ethernet cards?
Click here to view a complete list of Retailers.

Installation

24. Who do I call if I need help installing my Ethernet card and DSL modem?
You can arrange for any of BTC Retailers to install your Ethernet card and DSL modem for you.

25. Who do I call if my DSL service is not working?
We have put together a trouble-shooting guideline for your convenience in your Customer Welcome Kit. Click here to view the kit online or Click here to download it.
If your DSL service still does not work after following the trouble-shooting steps please give us a call at 611.