Earlier this month, NBN Co, the company building the broadband access network, says it had achieved trial download speeds of 994Mbps — or 1Gbps — in technology trials on its hybrid-fibre coaxial access network.
NBN Co said that during the trial, next generation DOCSIS 3.1 technology demonstrated its capability over an expanded spectrum range to support future wholesale speed upgrades using a standard NBN HFC connection box in the home – with the trial providing “new insights to guide future technical development and planning".
And NBN Co said the in-field trial, in Templestowe in outer Melbourne, demonstrated the potential for around 2.5 million homes and businesses that use or are due to be connected to the HFC access network across Australia.
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“The NBN is the largest infrastructure project ever undertaken in this country and it is on track for completion by mid-2020,” Fletcher said, adding, “NBN Co is constantly improving its services so that connections are fast and reliable."
Coinciding with the release of its latest report on progress with the network rollout, NBN Co has released a guide, following research, for Australians offering tips to help households and businesses get the most out of their NBN internet connection.
The research, commissioned by NBN Co, reveals that although 86% of Australians understand at least one factor that can impact their broadband experience (such as Wi-Fi quality and location in the home), just 42% say they are very confident that their home set-up is optimised to deliver the best speed and performance.
And the research also reveals that 68% of Australians said they managed their own internet set-up, while 26% enlist the help of their family and friends.
In addition, given the option of technical assistance to optimise their internet connections, 90% of Australians said that they would be likely to use this.
NBN Co says it is helping Australians understand the top things they can do in their home to help get the most out of their experience:
- Amplify your connection – Thick walls are great at keeping noise out but do the same to your Wi-Fi signal. Consider purchasing a Wi-Fi repeater to amplify your signal and help get faster speeds throughout your house.
- Your Internet signal is weak? – Check for objects that interfere with your Wi-Fi signal such as microwave ovens, televisions, hot water systems, ovens and even your fish tank. Place your Wi-Fi router/modem in a central location – free from obstructions.
- Check your plan – There are a range of speed plans NBN Co makes available to Internet providers on the network, so chat to your retailer about your Internet habits, the number of devices in the home and how many people will be online, particularly during the peak usage times between 7pm-9pm.
NBN Co says it is important Australians always contact their retailer in the first instance for anything related to the in-home experience.
“With 10 million homes and business now able to connect to the NBN access network, now is the time to ensure your household internet set-up is optimised to help deliver faster internet speeds,” NBN chief customer officer – Residential, Brad Whitcomb, said.
“Research shows one in four Australians are interested in making their homes ‘smarter’ so getting your set-up right will become increasingly important as we look to power the homes of tomorrow.
“There are lots of factors that can impact your household broadband experience, such as Wi-Fi quality, modem placement and the number of devices connected.”
And Telsyte managing director Foad Fadaghi said, “Australian households are getting smarter every day with more devices like TVs, speakers, security and energy solutions all connected to the internet.
“There are plenty of things people can do to optimise the experience of their connected home, including finding the best location for their Wi-Fi routers and ensuring device software is always kept up-to-date.”
