What is DSL?
Digital Subscriber Line service is the latest technology that can bring the Internet into your home or business over existing copper telephone lines at speeds formerly reserved for those who could only afford leased T-1 connectivity. DSL uses existing copper pair wiring found in almost every home and business. Special hardware attached to both the user and switch ends of the line permits data transmission at significantly greater speeds than that of an analog dial-up modem. DSL has many advantages. It's extremely fast and affordable for residential and consumer markets. It is "always on," meaning no dial-up, no busy signals, and no chance of being disconnected. It runs over existing telephone lines.

What are the benefits of DSL?
DSL provides "always on" access. Texas Communications DSL solution allows you to simply turn on your PC and have instant access. Unlike traditional dial-up services, such as analog modems and ISDN, the connection is there when you want it. DSL is cost-effective to implement and manage compared to traditional access methods. DSL uses the existing copper wire infrastructure and can, therefore, be deployed almost anywhere.

How do businesses benefit from DSL?
Businesses are rewarded with multiple benefits from DSL. DSL is a high-speed and dedicated connection that's easy to order, install, maintain, and is extremely affordable compared to traditional services. DSL enables businesses to provide high-speed and reliable remote access services for the work-at-home employee and for networking access between multiple corporate offices.

What are DSL'S limitations?
Since certain distance and transmission limitations apply, each customer's local loop has to be qualified prior to starting the service. Some customers' loops may not qualify at all because of the distance, line conditions (i.e., existing "bridge taps," and/or "load coils" on the copper loop), and application requirements. The Incumbent Local Exchange Carrier (ILEC) may remove existing bridge taps and/or load coils from the loop upon request from us. This service will be priced on a case-by-case basis. Whatever service takes place, we will design the optimum solution for its customers.

Is DSL easy to use for subscribers?
Yes! Once a certified technician installs your DSL equipment and service, it's on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just turn on your computer, click on your Internet browser, e-mail, or application and you're immediately connected. Exactly how much bandwidth will I receive with DSL? It depends on your selection of available speed offerings. Several additional factors impact the speed you can achieve. These include the distance between you and the Central Office, and the quality of your line. Upkeep is easy! DSL modems do not need complex maintenance after installation. Should you ever require technical help, we have a specialist assigned specifically to DSL support issues.

Who are typical users of DSL services?
Because our typical users vary, we offer a wide range of speeds based on the unique needs of our customers. Telecommuters, users who predominately work from home, utilize the networking and high-speed capabilities of DSL to access the corporate network for e-mail, Internet, intranet, and any other corporate-based service. The great thing about DSL is that all of these users can use DSL to connect to each other and work together. Many home-based users are utilizing the superior speed of DSL to shop, e-mail, surf, and play right from the comfort of their own homes.

What hardware do I need in order to get DSL access?
It is recommended that the subscriber use a computer processor capable of running any version Microsoft Windows or Microsoft Windows NT. A Macintosh system must have an Ethernet port. Most new systems should be compatible with our DSL service. Additional equipment needs vary depending upon your site, but the minimum equipment required to deliver DSL access includes a network interface card and DSL modem at the end user site.