What is ISDN ?

ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is a high-speed, digital telephone service that operates at speeds of up to 128 kbs - four times faster than analog modems. ISDN has many uses for both large and small business as well as residential customers. It can be used for Internet Access, LAN connections, telecommuting, video conferencing and telemedicine. ISDN even allows for simultaneous voice and data conversations over the same pair of copper wires.

The benefits of using ISDN for Internet Access include lightning fast downloads of audio, video and graphic files that are used in today's hottest web sites. Large file transfers are completed in minutes instead of hours. Call setup times are greatly reduced. With an analog modem you wait for dial tone, two or three rings, and then a connection is made. This can take between 20 and 40 seconds. With ISDN, your computer requests a connection and in 0.5 to 2 seconds your ISDN terminal adapter connects - just like that, you're online !

ISDN Terminal Adapters (TA's) are the electronic devices that enable the transmission of digital signals over the standard copper pair of wires between your home or business to the telephone company. Prices range from under $200 up to the $1,000's depending on the type of features and functions required for your application. Most TA's allow for external connection of telephone devices ( a telephone set, analog modem, or fax machine). Be careful though, not all TA's are capable of "bonding" the two B channels of your ISDN line which will prohibit the use of the full 128 kbs of bandwidth.

It is extremely important to shop around for the TA that is right for your application and is compatible with your local Telephone Company equipment and the equipment used by your local Internet Service Provider. WVI has three (3) types of TA's available that have been tested with our equipment. Contact the WVI Technical Support Group by dialing (503) 769-3331 or send e-mail to isdn@wvi.com for assistance in selecting the TA that is right for you.

ISDN services have been around for the past decade, however, not all telephone companies offer ISDN service, because of the cost of equipment and/or the lack of demand for the service. ISDN service is distance sensitive and will not operate in all areas even if your telephone company has the service available. Currently, US West offers ISDN in the Salem area and Stayton Cooperative Telephone Company offers ISDN in Stayton and Sublimity. In all cases, contact your local telephone company to find out if ISDN telephone service is available in your area.

WVI is proud to be the first Internet Access Provider to offer ISDN Access in the Salem / Santiam Canyon areas and will continue to incorporate the latest technologies in the services we offer to our customers.

Contact the WVI Technical Support Group by dialing (503) 769-3331 or send e-mail to isdn@wvi.com for more information. We will gladly provide any assistance required to get you up and running with ISDN Internet Access.

• Microsoft's What is ISDN
  
• Nortel's Digital Velocity Page