10 Dec 2003 Broadband arrives

Barton Stacey could take a leap into the modern world of communication as Sutton Scotney exchange is broadband enabled from 10 Dec 2003.

Broadband offers a new generation of communications capability - combining fast access with constant connection ("always on"). These features can bring a range of benefits with improved access to the internet for business, learning, entertainment and social usage.

But while the Sutton Scotney exchange - which serves a large part of Barton Stacey - is enabled, it doesn't guarantee that you'll be able to get broadband. You also need to have a connection from the exchange to your premises which is of suitable quality for broadband. Sadly, many lines into Barton Stacey are just not up to the level required - mainly because of the distance involved.

If you're in Barton Stacey and you've got broadband, please let me know how well it works for you.

If you’re in Barton Stacey and you've requested broadband but been told you can’t have it, please let me know that too! I'd be interested to know where you live and why you can't have it.

There are other ways of getting broadband which don’t need a telephone line, but none of these are available in Barton Stacey yet either. The most promising is the trial being carried out Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) in Winchester which uses the electricity main to provide communications. Details are at www.southern-electric.co.uk/broadband/