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| 30 Nov 2007 - Optus Wireless Broadband Launch |
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Overlooking Sydney Harbour from the Spectacular Taronga Zoo Function Centre, OPTUS today Launched - or re-launched their Mobile Broadband offering. Dubbed Optus Wireless Broadband, or "Broadband Unplugged", The service uses Optus' 3G Network, and expanding HSDPA network. Claiming 3.6Mbps but in reality averaging 1.5Mbps the service is not yet at the speeds being claimed by Telstra's Bigpond using the NEXT-G network. Optus spokesmen today claimed they would ramp up the speed based on consumer demand for such. Clearly, Optus are building a strong network, direclty competing with Telstra, and in time that will certainly be the case. For now, the clear difference is the speed available in metro areas, the extent of the coverage, and the price. Price is something Optus have certainly got right. Starting at $24.99 (when bundled with one other Optus product - landline/mobile), for 400Mb downloads, on a 24 month contract. Up to a maximum $49.99 per month with 2Gb included data. Excess usage charges apply after those limits, as opposed to Optus' usual 'no excess charges' policy on their fixed line broadband plans. at the $24.99/$34.99 (unbundled) starter rate, this is great value. Modems are rented over the life of the contract. The USB Dongle is free on a 24 month contract, $5 per month on a 12 month plan. All other wireless modems are $5 per month on 24 month contracts, and $10 per month on 12 month contracts. Interestingly, the modem remains the property of Optus, which is Optus' way to get you the newest hardware at the end of your contract should you re-commit. When questioned, it was clear from Optus' representatives today that after 2 years, if you are still happy with the service, and the modem you have, they won't be setting out to charge you to keep it. Aside from the Dongle, the Optus InZone wireless router is a wonderful looking product that simply plugs into your power point, and once connected wirelessly via the mobile nework, the device acts as a Wireless LAN for your home. With 4 hard wired ethernet ports also on the device. Speed wise, I've connected to the Optus network and using www.speedtest.net acheived download speeds of 957kbps, uploads of 349kbps. Immediately after that, in the same location, using the 7.2Mbps Telstra Bigpond Card, I acheived download speeds of 2260kbps, and uploads at 747kbps. However, keep in mind, these are different products, dramatically different in price. Installation is meant to be simple - plug and play, but not so on the Mac OSX. I have posted instructions for connecting on the Mac on my PC to MAC in 90 days page. Bottom line, if you are looking for broadband, or for broadband on the go - check into your local Optus store. |
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