|
What do I need to get started?
|
DSL services requires a DSL modem, which will be provided by FairPoint Communications.
Customers will need to have either an available USB port and USB to Ethernet adapter
cable or a Network Interface Card (NIC) already installed on their computer.
* These items can be purchased online or from your local computer retailer.
|
top
|
What are the system requirements?
|
PC/IBM Compatible Computers:
- Pentium processor or higher
- Windows 2000, XP or higher
- 32 MB RAM
- 30 MB of available hard drive space
- Ms Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.0 or better
- An installed Ethernet/NIC card or a spare card slot for the card*
Apple/Macintosh Computers:
- PowerMac 166MHz or higher
- System 8.6 or higher
- 32MB of RAM
- MS Internet Explorer 4.0 or Netscape Navigator 4.0 or better
- An installed Ethernet/NIC card or a spare card slot for the card*
* These items can be purchased online or from your local computer retailer.
|
top
|
Is DSL service available to my home or business?
|
To see if you are in our coverage area, enter your area code and exchange on the DSL Availability page or call the Customer Service Center. Because DSL is distance sensitive, it is possible that we may not be able to provide you with DSL service even though you are in our coverage area. Call us so we can "loop qualify" your location.
|
top
|
What is DSL?
|
DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line. This line provides high-speed digital
modem technology via a single telephone line. DSL allows for data transfer from your
line to the computer over your existing wires. This super-fast technology is up to 25
times faster than your PC's modem. DSL expands the power of your existing line to
bring you faster, dedicated links to the Internet.
|
top
|
Is DSL similar to a "dial-up" connection?
|
No. DSL does not "dial-up" to the Internet. Once your DSL service is
installed on your telephone line, the DSL modem provides you with a constant
connection to the Internet, eliminating the "dial-up" process. The connection
is made between your computer and the DSL modem, and by clicking on your browser,
you have an instant connection to the Internet. The slow, busy sound of your
old modem is a thing of the past.
|
top
|
How does DSL work?
|
Your phone line uses varying frequencies to transfer both voice and data.
The frequency is filtered from your point of service to your telephone or
computer. This makes it possible to use both your telephone and computer
at the same time.
|
top
|
What are the benefits of DSL?
|
With the dedicated service of DSL, you'll never get a busy signal trying
to get on the Internet. With a click of the mouse, you are instantly connected.
DSL eliminated the problem of logging off the Internet just to use the telephone.
You now have the ability to use the phone at the same time. And best of all, you
are surfing the web at lightning speed.
|
top
|
How does DSL compare to cable modems?
|
Cable modems offer services over a shared cable. Tens and possible hundreds
of users may be connected to this local cable line. The more users on the
network, the more your speed is compromised. With DSL technology, you have
dedicated service over an existing telephone line. DSL ensures that you don't
have to share your access connection with others, so your speed is never compromised
due to other DSL users.
|
top
|
Does DSL require installing an additional phone line?
|
No. DSL technology allows simultaneous analog voice and DSL data transmissions
over the same wires. You can still use your phone as you do now. DSL is simply
an additional feature on your line.
|
top
|
If my DSL modem fails or loses power, do I lose phone service?
|
No. The DSL modem is designed so that your normal telephone service will
operate even if the modem is unplugged or otherwise disabled.
|
top
|
Can I connect multiple PCs to my DSL service?
|
Yes. We offer additional options for the multi-user home or small business.
Please contact our Customer Solutions Representatives and we can discuss the best
options for you.
|
top
|
Do I have to purchase a modem to get DSL?
|
No. A DSL modem is provided for use as long as you have DSL service with FairPoint. DSL modem remains the property of FairPoint and must be returned if service is terminated. Modem Return Policy
|
top
|
What is "power cycling" my modem and when do I do it?
|
Occasionally, customers experience power outages due to weather or some other factor. If your home loses power, you may need to reset or "power cycle" your modem. Using the switch on the back, turn off your modem for 10 to 15 seconds and then turn it back on. Remember - always perform this action before calling for Technical Support.
|
top
|
What do all those lights on the modem mean?
|
| Equipment |
Symptom |
Cause/Fix |
| Visionet 200 |
ADSL light flashing |
problem with physical connection - check filters, make sure there is not a filter on the DSL modem |
| Visionet 201 |
LINK light flashing |
problem with physical connection - check filters, make sure there is not a filter on the DSL modem |
|
PPP light flashing |
usually caused by an incorrect password entered in the modem configuration page - recheck the spelling of the username & password and try again |
|
PPP light out |
usually caused by incorrect modem settings, specifically the VCI setting (if not working on 35, try 100) or the encapsulation (should be PPPoa-vcmux) |
| Visionet 202 |
SYNC light flashing |
problem with physical connection - check filters, make sure there is not a filter on the DSL modem |
|
PPP light flashing |
usually caused by an incorrect password entered in the modem configuration page - recheck the spelling of the username & password and try again |
|
PPP light out |
usually caused by incorrect modem settings, specifically the VCI setting (if not working on 35, try 100) or the encapsulation (should be PPPoa-vcmux) |
|
top
|
How does FairPoint notify me if there is scheduled service?
|
Visit the Service Bulletins page for news about planned upgrades and outages. FairPoint also provides customers with email notifications about any service-affecting network maintenance.
|
top
|
Who do I call if I have questions or difficulties?
|
| FairPoint Technical Support |
888.667.4868 |
|
| FairPoint Telephone Repair |
888.889.9950 |
|
| Visionet Modem |
866.286.9375 |
www.dqusa.com |
| 3Com Hub |
800.876.3266 |
www.3com.com/products/ |
|
top
|
How do I pay for my DSL service?
|
The monthly charge for your DSL service will be added to your phone bill.
|
top
|
