[Midlands] Re: Midlands Digest, Vol 22, Issue 1

[Peter Adams]

Apologies for the delay in responding, issues with my subscription to 
the list, full home directories and and my lack of net access left me 
unable to collect mail here.

Robert O' Rourke wrote:
> There are few options in Athlone for wireless broadband. Digiweb and
> Lastmile Wireless are really your only two options, I've heard people say
> that Irish Broadband is available too but the last time I've heard about it
> they were refusing to take orders and the service wasn't great etc... Out of
> the 2 I mentioned, I'd be inclined to go with Digiweb. If you're out where
> Digiweb can't reach you Lastmile is usually available. Just so you know,
> with wireless here they still need to put up an antenna of some sort, be it
> small or large.

I've considered Digiweb but I'm told if there is *anything* between you 
and the mast then it won't work.

> What type of accommodation are you moving into and how long. Personally I'd
> prefer DSL over Wireless for the long run. If you were staying in the digs
> for 2/3 years it may be worth getting a phone line in. Again, depending
> where you're living (more than likely in the town if your girlfriend is
> going to AIT) you can get most of the different companies broadband.

Well, I've applied for an Eircom line and broadband but they seem to be 
citing 4-6 weeks before they can switch it on. That's a ridiculous 
amount of time. I've taken to sponging off the wireless in AIT's 
canteen. I'd rather use wireless in a pub or something but I haven't 
found any in Athlone with wi-fi. Finland had loads.

> And failing all that if you're prohibited from making modifications to the
> building you're in, there's always the likes of the o2's, 3's, Vodafones
> mobile broadband, but remember the actual speed of that product is 1.3Mbps,
> divided by the amount of users using the node (can't think of the proper
> word for it) you're connected to. So actual download speeds can be anything
> between 4kBps -80kBps. some people have seen higher speeds, I have not.

With the Vodafone deal I've been told I need a three month accommodation 
history and to take out an 18 month contract. Still, it's something I'm 
considering.

> And alsooooooo *work pimp* you could visit the fine Internet Cafe I work for
> in the center of town  ;)  lol

They can be pricey but useful if there is no other option. What cafe is 
it incidentally? The one next to Rayners?

> Sure good look with the hunt, you'll find something to suite  :) 

I'm hope so. I'm climbing the walls at the moment. You don't realise how 
dependant you get to the ability to google for stuff until you no longer 
have the luxury.

-- 
Peter