Basic Rate Access
Go completely digital with Telecom Fiji!
Join the digital revolution with ISDN services from Telecom Fiji! ISDN services significantly improve the performance of your computer dial-up sessions, provide you with an on demand alternative to leased data circuits, enable innovative applications such as video-conferencing and make PBX networking simpler.
What is ISDN?
The Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) is both a set of digital transmission standards and a network infrastructure that allows digital transmission over existing copper telephone wiring. It is essentially, a switched network capable of digitally transmitting voice, video and data from one location to another. The network offers you the best of both worlds - the utility! and reach of the public telephone network, combined with high quality, digital transmission that was previously only available on leased data services.
A key feature of ISDN services is that it handles dial-up communications digitally. This means that your computer (a digital machine) can now use a communications channel that is optimised for computer communications, rather than using the existing analogue telephone service, which is optimised for voice communications. You will therefore notice improved transmission speeds because digital compatibility eliminates unnecessary retransmissions inherent in analogue networks.
What is SPEEDSTREAM?
SPEEDSTREAM is based on Telecom Fiji's ISDN Basic Rate Access (or BRA) service variant which comes with two (2) bearer channels capable of supporting either a telephone, facsimile, computer, data or video session. The service includes a bundle of value-added services such as Calling Line Identification, Call waiting, Abbreviated Dialing etc, and is extended to your premises using specially sourced Integrated Terminal Adapter (ITA) units.
1 Refers to the fact that one can calf any number (locations) on the network compared to alternatives such as leased circuits or frame relay, which are fixed between any two locations.
At the most simplistic level, SPEEDSTREAM enables you to do two things at once. For example, you can make a phone call while you're receiving a fax, or receive a phone call while you access your e-mail via your ISP. Moreover, while you're working on the Internet, perhaps downloading files or searching for business information, you'll be able to do everything faster than you can with analogue modems. This is because SPEEDSTREAM can be configured to 'bond' together the two individual channels so that it appears as one high-speed dial-up session operating at 128kbps.
What are the key features & benefits of SPEEDSTREAM?
Apart from the generic benefit of increased clarity for voice calls (digital lines are not so susceptible to interference as analogue ones), two key features and benefits are highlighted below.
- Innovative Pricing
SPEEDSTREAM's pricing has been designed to encourage use of the service. For instance, call rates are significantly lower than existing telephone rates. Moreover, calls to an ISP are billed flat-fee per call, making it simpler and cheaper for you to access the Internet.
- Multi-Service Concurrent Sessions
ISDN services uses carefully organized 'bearer' channels between any two ISDN connections. These channels can carry different communication services such as telephony, fax, computer, data and video communications. With SPEEDSTREAM, two services can operate concurrently over one physical connection, significantly improving your responsiveness and productivity.
What can I use SPEEDSTREAM for?
- Rapid Internet access and downloading
You can surf the Internet much faster than with a modem and it also takes less time to download data. To use this application, you need an ISDN package from your ISP in order to get connected at high-speed.
- Fast file transfer
If you need to send lots of large files to another party who has an ISDN service as well, then fast file transfer using SPEEDSTREAM is a more efficient way to send data compared to attaching them via e-mails. You simply dial up the distant computer and send your files directly to it.
- Connecting satellite (branch) offices
SPEEDSTREAM services have equivalent functionality with that of a leased data service. The key difference is that SPEEDSTREAM is a timed service, whereas leased data services are fixed price-based services. Depending on your requirements and budget, SPEEDSTREAM services may prove to be a cheaper alternative than leased data services for connecting branch offices to head offices, particularly if the branch does not need an 'always-on' data communications service.
- Videoconference around the World
With video conferencing, you'll be able to see and hear the person at the other end of the line, as well as see, discuss and amend work/presentations in real time.
You can hold meetings with overseas or locally-based clients and suppliers without leaving the office (your clients, suppliers need compatible video conferencing equipment). And because the service provides digital capability, high quality images are transmitted in real
time. Meetings via Video Conference eliminate much of the expense and travel involved with conventional meetings. Fully interactive audio and video makes it almost like being there.
It is best to use SPEEDSTREAM services if you're starting off with this application rather than leased circuits because you only pay as you use the service, and more importantly, you can call any other party who has a video conferencing unit connected to the ISDN, increasing the
overall utility of this application to your business.
- Protecting Leased Service Failure
If your data communications equipment (e.g. router) is ISDN compatible, then you can use the SPEEDSTREAM service to dial-up from a remote site to your data center in the event your leased data service fails between these two sites.
- Do two things at once
You can browse the Internet and talk to a customer at the same time, receive a fax while checking your e-mail, or even use the phone while accessing data from another office. You can also bond your digital channels together to achieve a transmission speed of 128kbps, enabling you to access remote networks and send large files even faster.
- Work from home
With SPEEDSTREAM installed in your home, you can access your office network (assuming you have permission to access your companies network) without ever going there. So you could work as effectively at home and save time, money and the stress of travel. This application requires an ISDN compatible router at your office in order to receive your dial-up calls.
Note: You need to check whether Speedstream services are available in your area.
- Stay in touch with your customers
SPEEDSTREAM offers you a number of value-added features. For example, you can use Calling Line Identity (CLI) to see the number of whoever is calling you before you pick up the phone. So you could have a customer's account details on screen before you start to speak to them!
Who is SPEEDSTREAM suitable for?
The product is suitable for both residential and business use particularly if computer communications (to the ISP or elsewhere) is an integral part of one's lifestyle or work.
Where are SPEEDSTREAM services available?
SPEEDSTREAM services are available in the following areas: Sa, Denarau, Deuba, Labasa, Lami, Lautoka, Nakasi, Nadi, Namaka, Nasinu, Samabula, Savusavu, Sigatoka,Suva and Tamavua.
Telecom Fiji intends to expand coverage to other centres over the next three years. Telecom Fiji may make arrangement to expand coverage should customers demand ISDN services before the network expansion projects occur. This is subject to demand volumes.
How is SPEEDSTREAM services delivered to my premises?
The Speedstream service is delivered solely over Telecom Fiji's copper access network. This means that there is little or no need for new wiring up to your premises therefore shortening the time to upgrade or install a new service.
How far can the SPEEDSTREAM service work from Telecom Fiji's exchanges?
The speedstream service is highly dependant on the quality of Telecom Fiji's copper network. Telecom Fiji's market trials have shown that the service can be installed at sites located up to 5km away from its ISDN equipped exchanges.
When requested, Telecom Fiji will endeavour to provide services to premises located at such distances, however, we cannot guarantee that we can install the service to the required standard until we can verify the quality of copper with our test equipment. Line testing will be carried out on a needs basis.
What is an Integrated Terminal Adapter (ITA)?
The ITA is a special network termination unit that is provided by Telecom Fiji for the Speedstream service. It consists of an inbuilt digital network terminating unit, two analogue ports (for use with your analogue telephones or fax machines), two computer ports (USB and RS232C) and an S-Bus socket for attaching ISDN compatible equipment e.g. video conferencing unit. What's different about this unit compared to other network terminating units, is that the ITA is a managed unit, meaning that Telecom Fiji can quickly run tests and diagnose faults in the event of receiving a complaint, change service configurations in response to requests, or download new firmware to keep the ITA performing at optimum levels. Telecom Fiji has chosen these units carefully to minimise disruptions to your service.
Do I need to buy the ITA or does it come with the Speed stream service?
You need to purchase the Integrated Terminal Adapter (ITA) used in the Speed stream service outright.
Does the ITA require 240VAC power?
Yes. The ITA requires connection to a 24QV AC power outlet to operate.
What happens to the ISDN service when the 240VAC fails?
Should the 240VAC power fail, the ITA will always provide one telephone service on Tel 1 port, and the service will lose the capability to set up high-speed dial-up calls. If you are wanting to set up a dial-up session to your ISP or another computer during the period of where power is unavailable, then you can only do so by attaching an analogue modem to the Tell port and dialling out with this.
What are the computing requirements to connect to the ITA?
Telecom Fiji's ITA will work with most IBM compatible PCs and Apple Macintosh computers.
The minimum specification for an IBM compatible PC is:
- Pentium III or later (really depends on the as being used)
- Windows 98, ME, 2000,
- 32MB RAM (for WIN 98)
- 64MB RAM (for Win 2000 and ME) . 128MB RAM (for WIN XP)
- SVGA display 800 x 600 x 256 colours
- Spare USB port and a CD ROM drive
(or RS232 port capable of 115.2 kbps)
The minimum specification for a MAC PC is:
- OS X Version 10.1
- OS9
Will Telecom Fiji technicians set up my equipment?
The Speedstream service will be installed and tested up until the Integrated Terminal Adapter (ITA). If you're using the service in conjunction with your PC or MAC computer, the Installation Pack left at your premises includes:
- A Speedstream User Guide outlining the steps you need to take to connect your equipment to the ITA;
- Software drivers available to match your operating system. Two media formats are supplied for your convenience: 3.5" floppy disk and CD;
- All cables necessary to connect your equipment to the ITA (USB cable, DB9 to DB9 cable, DB9 to DB25 port adapter, RJ45 to RJ45 cables x 2, RJ-ll to RJ45 cable xl).
It is your responsibility to load up the appropriate software drivers and connect your PC or MAC equipment to the ITA. Connect can also be approached for assistance.
For the case of the SpeedstreamMAX service, the service will be installed and tested up until the Network Terminating Unit (NTU). It will be your responsibility to arrange for the set up of your equipment, which may involve technicians and engineers from other units within Telecom Fiji
Can I retain my existing telephone/service number?
Yes. Telecom Fiji has developed ISDN services so that it can be introduced with minimum impact on your existing identities and business.
What are the prices for SPEEDSTREAM?
Please note that aU SPEEDSTREAM prices below are VAT Inclusive.
- Once-off charges
Integrated Terminal Adapter [ITA]
Outright Purchase2 $731.25
Connection – If New Connection $196.88
- If Upgrading from PSTN – ISDN $99.00
- Recurring [Monthly] Charges
Network Access $77.00
Bundled Value Added Services
2 Unique Phone/Service Numbers
[1 for each channel]3 Included in Package
CLI-Caller Line Identification Included in Package
Abbreviated Dialling Included in Package
IDD Password Included in Package
Wake-up Call Included in Package
Call Transfer Included in Package
Voicebank Included in Package
3-Party Conference Included in Package
Call Waiting Included in Package
- Usage Charge
Voice Call Charges [via the ITA’s analogue ports)4
Local $0.1227/call
Regional $0.1452/min
National $0.2306/min
Internet $0.1227/call
International (all bands) As per PSTN charges
CDMA (Easytel) As per PSTN charges
Mobile As per PSTN charges
Data/Computer Call Charges (via the ITA’s digital ports)5
Local 5c/min
Regional 12c/min
National 22c/min
Internet 11c/mn
2 All Speedstream customers need to purchase these units outright. The units comes with a manual, drivers and all the cables that you may need to connect to the ITA. You will own this package.
3 You retain your existing service number if upgrading to Speedstream. Telecom will assign one additional number to this service.
4 Analogue ports are identified as Tel 1 and Tel 2 on the Integrated Terminal Adapter [NT1 plus II unit].
5 Digital ports are identified as the serial [RS-232], USB or S-Bus ports on the Integrated Terminal Adapter [NT1 plus II units]. – Charges are per 64bps channel. Speedstream has 2x64bps channel. Speedstream has 2x64bps channels that are used when making a high-speed [12kbps] call. In such cases 2 billing records will be generated, each billing at the prices shown.
Data – International6
Band Z $0.7504/min
Band Y $0.9404/min
Band X $1.428/min
Band W $1.8902/min
Band V $0.9404/min
Band M $1.0449/min
Band I $16.8750/min
How does Billing for ISDN services work?
ISDN billing is virtually identical to how your existing telephone service is billed. You will therefore be billed a rental for network access as well as usage of the service. What's different about ISDN services is that Telecom Fiji will charge two different rates for the two types of calls: voice rates and data/computer rates. Please consult the Product Fact Sheet for the Speed stream and SpeedstreamMAX services for more information.
A billing record is generated each time an ISDN channel is used. The Speedstream service comes with two (2) channels, each capable of operating at transmission speeds of 64kbps. A 128kbps high-speed call would therefore use both 64kbps channels, and show up in your billing records as two separate call records, each billed individually at the rates quoted above. High-speed calls can only be made over the Integrated Terminal Adapter's (ITA) digital ports.
CAUTION: Speedstream customers using the service in conjunction with their PCs or MACs to access their ISP or for point-to-point data sessions have options when
loading up the ITA drivers.
- The Dynamic Voice Over-ride (DVO) drivers gives one the ability to make and receive phone/fax calls during a high-speed session, be it to your ISP or to another ISDN connection. The implication of this is that one of the 64kbps channel associated with the 128kbps high-speed session will be disconnected from the high-speed session, and used to make or receive the phone/fax call. Once the phone/fax call ends, the DVO driver automatically sets up another call to restore your high-speed session. Each time this happens, a new billing record is generated for the new call.
6 Set by Fiji International Telecommunications Limited (FINTEL).
- If you intend to use the Speedstream service solely for data sessions e.g. ISP dial-up and/or ISDN-ISDN file transfer applications only, then it is recommended that you install the MLPPP drivers for 128kbps connection, as will prevent calls from interrupting your high-speed sessions.
What can I expect on my first bill?
When you get your first bill, it may look rather high. This is because your bill will show amounts that may include:
- A service upgrade fee - if upgrading from your existing service to the ISDN service;
- Or a new connection fee - for totally new connections only
- A rental amount may look rather high - this is because it takes into account the rental from your connection date to the bill date, as well as a further one month's rental for the coming month. Telecom Fiji will always bill rentals in advance.
- Usage charges - itemised for each call
Which Terms & Condition of service apply to ISDN services?
Please consult the ISDN standard terms & condition of service document found on the order form for complete details. You must understand and agree to the term & conditions of service applicable to Telecom Fiji’s ISDN services before placing your order.
How do I order ISDN services?
Please complete the order form obtainable from any Telecom Fiji Customer Care locations or on Telecom Fiji's website www.TelecomFiji.com.fj and deliver to Telecom Fiji Limited by:
- Hand Deliver: You can complete the order form and deliver it to a Telecom Fiji Customer Care Centre near you. A listing is provided at the back page.
- Fax: You can complete the order form and fax it to 112244
What equipment can I connect to the SPEEDSTREAM service?
You have the option of connecting your telephone, fax machine, a computer and other ISDN basic rate compatible equipment (including supported digital phones, Group 4 fax machines and videoconferencing terminals). Telecom Fiji can assist you in working out what you require.
Before we visit
Before our technicians arrive, you need to decide where you would like your ITA to be fitted. Do note that the computer cable supplied with the Installation Pack is only 1m long. For this reason, we suggest that the best place to install the ITA is as close as possible to your computer. If required, a telephone connection can then be extended from this location. Please advise our technician where you would like the ITA installed when he/she arrives.
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