WISPA'S SIMPLE GUIDE TO BROADBAND OPTIONS.(News)

AN independent body dedicated to advising people and businesses about broadband options has been launched in Wales.

Wispa - Wales Internet Service Providers Association - is headed by Hywel Wiliam, who until recently was Ofcom's head of broadcasting and telecommunications in Wales.

He said: "The range of connectivity options can be confusing. There are advantages and disadvantages depending on where you are and how fast a connection you need."

Wispa has produced a simple options guide which includes the following: * Broadband connectivity over standard copper telephone lines is the most common form of internet access. Speeds depend on the distance to the telephone exchange and the type of broadband technology used over the copper line. Traditional telephone calls and broadband internet can be carried over the same copper line and you may see terms such as ADSL, SDSL which relate to the technology used to deliver the service. * Broadband connectivity supplied via a satellite dish is a good alternative for rural and/or remote locations. Speeds are improving, although latency - the time taken to receive signals from the satellite - can be noticeable if accessing real-time services such as iPlayer and Skype. * Companies may offer wireless hotspots in specific locations such as hotels, stations, pubs etc. These use the same wi-fi technology as in the home or office although the access point may be a little more robust than a home version. * Fibre Optic to the premises provides the highest speed connectivity service. It can be costly if taken as a dedicated service, but is very reliable, once installed.

Fibre Optic to the cabinet takes advantage of high-speed fibre optics being run to the cabinet, but then the connection reverts to copper wires to the home or business. This can be a hybrid alternative to the full fibre speed option offering speeds up to 40Mbps.

Mobile broadband uses the data connectivity capabilities of 3G, 3.5G and 4G Mobile services. Speeds are lower with older mobile services.