AirStream
Residents of East Bowral have long suffered poor broadband internet services. The only options were to use patchy, unreliable 3G wireless known to slow down and drop out.
Thanks to Ace’s AirStream, East Bowral now has some of the fastest broadband internet available in the country.
The technology has been built in East Bowral because of the need for it there. However, coverage is possible throughout the Southern Highlands.
Frequently Asked Questions
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- Try the immersive 3D virtual reality world of Second Life.
How fast is it?
Extremely! It matches the speed expected of the National Broadband Network (NBN) wireless services.
I've heard wireless is unreliable. Will this slow down or drop out?
No. There is virtually no downtime with AirStream. The signal is constant and independent of mobile phone networks. Subscribers to AirStream services are limited, Ace guarantees not to compromise the service quality.
Can businesses apply for AirStream?
Yes! AirStream is offered to both households and businesses. Our business customers choose Ace as their high speed internet provider as we exceed our rivals in terms of reliability and provide real savings.
Why are you limiting the number of customers?
Many people have experienced the frustration of being on a service that has been 'oversubscribed'. The service gets congested with too many users and slows down.
At Ace we don't believe this is fair. We pride ourselves on delivering fantastic service quality and we will not oversubscribe AirStream.
What happens when the NBN comes in?
Ace is one of the few NBN-authorised ISPs on the East Coast of NSW offering services in 2011. When the NBN is available for you to connect to, we will offer you a free upgrade to the NBN.
Do I need a phone line?
No. AirStream is truly wireless so it does not run through your phone line. We can supply a free VoIP phone number so you can make calls through your broadband connection. Enjoy the benefits of no land line rental and substantially reduced call costs.
What things can I do with AirStream?
AirStream's leap in speed means you can gain a professional advantage, an edge over fellow students, even compete in online interactive games with overseas players without the usual speed disadvantage. Many online resources are not used by most Australians because of our relatively slow internet speeds compared to the rest of the world.
How about trying this:
I want it. How do I get connected?
No problem. Ace will run a signal test at no charge contact us now: 02 4861 8888, or info@airstream.com.au, or click here:
Do I need any special equipment?
Yes. A small piece of hardware is required to receive these powerful speeds. Ace has plans that provide the equipment at no charge. Alternatively you can purchase the hardware and receive the service at reduced rates.
How much does AirStream cost?
There are two types of AirStream: Performance and Extreme.
These are available for both households and businesses.
Each has an option to go onto a 12 month or longer plan and have no upfront costs or installation hassles.
For the technically minded, you can purchase the equipment and install it yourself, and you won't need to enter any contract period.
| Performance | Extreme | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Contract | 12 Month Plan | No Contract | 12 Month Plan | |
| Speed | 6 Mbps | 6 Mbps | 12 Mbps | 12 Mbps |
| Data Allowance | 20 GB | 20 GB | 30 GB | 30 GB |
| Landline Required? | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required | Not Required |
| Signal Box | $260 | FREE | $260 | FREE |
| Installation | $250 | FREE | $250 | FREE |
| Maintenance | TBA* | FREE | TBA* | FREE |
| VoIP Phone Number | FREE Phone Number | FREE Phone Number | ||
| VoIP Lines | FREE LINE for VoIP calls (Prefix 02 48 available) |
FREE LINE for VoIP calls (Prefix 02 48 available) |
||
| Per Month | $64.95 | $109.95 | $99.95 | $129.95 |
* Maintenance costs will be determined on a case-by-case basis
For the Tech-Heads
How does AirStream work?
AirStream is a wireless technology developed by Ace that uses radio frequency to transmit high speed broadband to regional and remote properties across the Southern Highlands. The first AirStream service was launched in 2006 from the Oxley Hill transmission tower. The new East Bowral version is a "micro cell" and operates from within the suburb.
What is the environmental impact?
AirStream has a very low impact both visually and electromagnetically. The height of the transmission tower in East Bowral is approximately one metre. It is hidden amongst the rooftops of the suburb, with minimum visability. It runs on less energy than a light bulb.
How secure is it?
The wireless signal uses industry standard 128-bit AES encryption (the same encryption used by banks around the world) so interception from hackers is highly improbable.