New to ADSL

[nuyork]

Hi all,

I'm going to be new to ADSL soon. I still have to apply for an ADSL line first, but just wanted to ask a few questions first before I apply.

I have read the FAQ and a few other threads.

At the moment we have 2 lines in our house. Private, for normal phone use (let's say 555-1234) and ISDN 2a for internet and faxing (let's say 555-5678). The one line comes into my room and then into the ISDN 2a Telkom box (I'm not sure where the private line comes from), then into my PCs internal ISDN modem. Then also from the telkom box in my room, we have a telephone line that runs into the roof, 2 rooms across into the office where the fax machine is, all on one number.

The router is setup as so - main computer (one connects to the internet via ISDN) is connected via cable to a wireless 4 port router (Gigabyte GN-BR01G [which supports ADSL via ethernet - needs ADSL modem]). Then my laptop and PC in the lounge connect to the router wirelessly and also the internet. Then another PC in the office which connects to via cable, which runs in the roof to my room and connects to the router. All can access the internet via the main PC when it's connected.

Now what would be the best setup for me? Dumping the Gigabyte router and getting an all in one ADSL wireless router. Or just getting an ADSL modem and connect it to the router via the WAN port?

Also how would the Telkom wiring be affected by the ADSL installation? Would I just convert my ISDN line to a ADSL line? Would I need a splitter or a micro filter for my setup? I would still need to use the fax machine in the office.

Or should I just cancel the second ISDN line (555-5678) altogether and just convert the primary line (555-1234) to ADSL and connect the normal telephones and fax machine via that way? Would Telkom sort out the wiring and installation of the splitter or micro filters?

And how does the self-install work? I see no mention of self-install on the Telkom website. Would it be worth it with my setup? Or should I rather get Telkom to check all the wiring and setting up?

What would be the easiest?

Thanks,
:L:

 

[jacobstone]

I would do away with the ISDN, replace the lot with one ADSL line, do away with the gigabyte router, install a decent ADSL firewall router/switch solution.

each telephone and fax machine in your house would need to be plugged into a filter (about R40 each from Telkom).

Unless of course you need your fax line on a different number, then just keep an additional line for that. But in any case, the ISDN will serve no purpose.

 

[terencevs]

I agree... Get rid of the ISDN will serve no purpose when you get ADSL...

Although it might serve a purpose when your ADSL is down.... but that is a waste of money

 

[HosstheBoss]

Hi all,

I'm going to be new to ADSL soon. I still have to apply for an ADSL line first, ...

Still to apply, Ag Shame see you next year boet

(Kidding, hope you're lucky and you get it sooner rather than imminently)

 

[nuyork]

Thanks.

Yeah, I figured we might need the fax machine on a different number.

As when you connect it to the main line, then the fax machine will pick up after a few rings if someone calls.

I'm guessing this works the same for the ADSL conversion? If someone dials the number and no one picks up in time, the fax machine will pick it up? If someone can just confirm that for me, please.

Cause then it looks like I'll convert the ISDN line to ADSL and just connect a filter on for the fax line, and maybe another filter for a normal telephone line [in case the ADSL is down].

Good idea?

:L:

 

[HosstheBoss]

Why don't you try a fax to email service? Because of it I am now only using the one line (was using two in the past like you are) and of course your faxes are stored on your pc, and you can review them as you would your emails, convenient!

 

[AntiThesis]

Yah fax to email is certainly a pretty good option. There are some free services that are fairly reliable and some paid services that are excellent. As Hoss has pointed out, they are much more convenient and you can print them at your leisure.

 

[HosstheBoss]

Yah fax to email is certainly a pretty good option. There are some free services that are fairly reliable and some paid services that are excellent. As Hoss has pointed out, they are much more convenient and you can print them at your leisure.

and not loose the damn things the way I always use to

Yes and I found not having to print every single fax saves on ink too! (the little things that count)

 

[AntiThesis]

Indeed. Better quality paper too (won't go all pear shaped during storage). I find normal A4 is nowhere near as fiddly as the standard fax paper don't you?

 

[nuyork]

Cool thanks for the ideas.

Is the fax to e-mail service free? Or is it the e-mail to fax the ones that's free? I can never remember?

But that will mean that the fax number will obviously change to one of those 0860 numbers right? (or whatever the number is)

I've got one of those OfficeJet all in one printers. We trashed the old fax machine AGES ago...that paper was jut ridiculous!!! But you're right...if we change to fax to e-mail then we'll definately be saving on ink.

Can anyone recommend any good fax to e-mail solutions? I see WebAfrica offer that service. And then I've also found http://www.faxtoemail.co.za/ - any good recommendations?

:L:

 

[nuyork]

ADSL Router

OK, been going through this forum for a good ADSL wireless router.

Looks like I might go for the NetGear DG834G from DigitalPlanet - http://www.digitalplanet.co.za/shop/product.asp?stockID=59390

Good choice? Bad choice?

:L:

 

[terencevs]

OK, been going through this forum for a good ADSL wireless router.

Looks like I might go for the NetGear DG834G from DigitalPlanet - http://www.digitalplanet.co.za/shop/product.asp?stockID=59390

Good choice? Bad choice?

:L:

Why not go for a Billion 7300G? R860.00

The Billion Support Techs are on the forum and the Billion routers are great.

Do a search on the forum regarding Billion.

What made you choose the NetGear if you don't mind me asking?

BTW This is not a sales pitch just my opinion!

Lastly.. There is nothing wrong with Netgear

 

[HosstheBoss]

Cool thanks for the ideas.

Is the fax to e-mail service free? Or is it the e-mail to fax the ones that's free? I can never remember?

But that will mean that the fax number will obviously change to one of those 0860 numbers right? (or whatever the number is)

I've got one of those OfficeJet all in one printers. We trashed the old fax machine AGES ago...that paper was jut ridiculous!!! But you're right...if we change to fax to e-mail then we'll definately be saving on ink.

Can anyone recommend any good fax to e-mail solutions? I see WebAfrica offer that service. And then I've also found http://www.faxtoemail.co.za/ - any good recommendations?

:L:

I may be burnt for saying this, but check with Telkom

I use Telkom (fax to email) and the service has not given me much trouble. I had problems in the beginning with the email address being incorrect (they made it .com instead of .co.za) but I threw toys immediately (knee jerk reaction when it comes to Telkom) and so I got put through to the lady in charge of the service (can’t remember her name) only to have the wind knocked out of my sails! The only helpful, considerate caring person that works at Telkom! She sorted my problems, phoned me to see if I’m happy, and emailed me again to see if I’m happy, really decent!

As far as price is concerned, I’m on the stupid 2 year ADSL contract with them so I get it free (or at least it doesn’t reflect on my bill), don’t know the cost otherwise, and would bet it’s free or relatively cheap in any case (well cheaper than paying for a second line).

And as far as numbers go, they take the 10 digit number of the line your on say 011 555 1234 and simply put a 088 in front, so it’s easy to remember as well!

But all said and done go check the others that are offering the service, see what you can find, because that has simply been my experience!

As a side note, for out going faxes you still have to dial out (I have an internal modem, do it that way) so it can be a nuisances if there’s one line and someone is on the phone. But there are free email to fax services, I just haven’t got around to checking them out yet! (Should save you a little on out going call costs, as in my case, most faxes are long distance calls)

Well good luck mate!

 

[HosstheBoss]

OK, been going through this forum for a good ADSL wireless router.

Looks like I might go for the NetGear DG834G from DigitalPlanet - http://www.digitalplanet.co.za/shop/product.asp?stockID=59390

Good choice? Bad choice?

:L:

I've been looking at that aswell and LabAnimal recommened the NetGear DG834G to me, and his opinion seems to be worth something! but they seemed to be happy with billion as well so....

 

[jacobstone]

OK, been going through this forum for a good ADSL wireless router.

Looks like I might go for the NetGear DG834G from DigitalPlanet - http://www.digitalplanet.co.za/shop/product.asp?stockID=59390

Good choice? Bad choice?

:L:

I use two DG834's on my campus to serve several hundred connections at once and they never fall over so I would definitely recommend.

 

[nuyork]

What made you choose the NetGear if you don't mind me asking?

Same reason as HosstheBoss. LabAnimal recommended it to me. hehe

Now I'm just trying to find a good place to buy it from. Online...so far it's DigitalPlanet. Offline...not sure where.

Can anyone recommend a place in Pretoria where a shop would sell the NetGear DG834G at a good price. Because as soon as I see Telkom install that ADSL line, I would like to go out and buy the router that very date rather than waiting for DigitalPlanet to deliver it a week later.

I don't want to get it before. Like if they phone me up "we'll be coming to install next week". I'd buy it online and it would come within a week. Then Telkom phones up "sorry, we have no ADSL ports available or some or other excuse". That would kinda piss me off.

:L:

 

[nuyork]

Finally made the call to Telskum. "I see sir that your exchange supports ADSL and that there are posts available, installation will take 6 to 8 weeks, if you don't hear from use within 30 business days, call again."

Yeah right, I'll be calling back at least once a week for an update, SIR!!

Now I just wait....wait....wait...and some more wait...

Just a quick question, where do I get my microfilter/splitter from? (I'm not sure if there is a difference between a microfilter or splitter, what do I ask for when I purchase one?) I read somewhere around that they cost R40 from Telskum, but I can get them cheaper from other places. Anyone care to let me in on the secret? (Not that R40 is expensive, but for interests sake, and obviously trying to avoid Telskum - hehe).

Telkom Line
......|
......|
Microfilter
..|......|
..|......|
Fax...ADSL Router-----PC

Is that basically how it will work?

Does the microfilter plug into the standard plug socket for earthing and lightning protection? Or are those more expensive?

Also from my previous post, is anyone able to tell me where I can buy the NetGear DG834G ADSL wireless router from in Pretoria at a local store? Anyone know who would supply them?

Thanks,
:L:

P.S. - wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait......wait

 

[snugam]

I hate telkom too; but

Still to apply, Ag Shame see you next year boet

(Kidding, hope you're lucky and you get it sooner rather than imminently)

my one friend, got her ADSL 1 week after applying. I applied today so I hope I am as lucky as she is.

 

[HosstheBoss]

my one friend, got her ADSL 1 week after applying. I applied today so I hope I am as lucky as she is.

Where does your friend live, because in the cities it's usually hell but in the smaller towns (like myself) it's not too bad. I had mine in 2 days! and a smug smile on my face...

but my buddy "Dave" in JHB has been waiting 6 months, due to get ADSL end of this month!

 

[HosstheBoss]

...
Just a quick question, where do I get my microfilter/splitter from? (I'm not sure if there is a difference between a microfilter or splitter, what do I ask for when I purchase one?) I read somewhere around that they cost R40 from Telskum, but I can get them cheaper from other places. Anyone care to let me in on the secret? (Not that R40 is expensive, but for interests sake, and obviously trying to avoid Telskum - hehe).
...

Mine is as such:
Telkom Line - Filter - Telephone

|​

| -Filter-Internal Modem (fax)​

ADSL Modem