What is DSL ?

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) is a high-speed, point to point, digital connection service that operates at speeds of up to 8 Mbs, 50 times faster than analog modems. DSL 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. Some variations of DSL even allow for simultaneous voice and data conversations over the same pair of copper wires.

The benefits of using DSL for Internet Access include extremely 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 eliminated. 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 DSL, your computer is connected directly to the ethernet network - just like that, you're online !

DSL "Modems" 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 $150 up to the $1,000's depending on the type of features and functions required for your application.

DSL Availability

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

WVI is proud to be the first Internet Access Provider to offer DSL Access in the Santiam Canyon area 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 xdsl@wvi.com for more information. We will gladly provide any assistance required to get you up and running with DSL Internet Access.