Some of your frequently asked questions answered…
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[toggle title=”What is satellite broadband?” state=”opened”]
Satellite broadband is a bi-directional high speed satellite internet service for internet access. Bi-directional means that receive and transmit functions are performed via the satellite; therefore there is no need for a telephone line.
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[toggle title=”Does the satellite broadband service cover where I live?”]
As the service comes from space you can connect anywhere provided you can install a dish and nothing is blocking line of sight such as buildings or geography
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[toggle title=”How big is the dish?”]
The dish size depends on your location and line of site to the satellite, but typically 74cm
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[toggle title=”What is the difference between HIGH SPEED and HIGHSPEED+?”]
Our HIGH SPEED+ service includes a static IP address, this makes it possible to connect to Virtual Private Networks that may be necessary if you work from home. The static IP does not affect your speeds or data
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[toggle title=”I have SKYTV/Freesat, is it possible to use the same satellite dish?”]
Unfortunately no, they work differently
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[toggle title=”What speeds can I achieve?”]
The speeds available are up to 100mbps, these can be affected by number of users & type of usage.
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[toggle title=”What data quotas do you offer?”]
Both packages have unlimited date with a Prioritised data allowance of 150GB.
[toggle title=”What is “Prioritised” Data?”]
Your priority data is the amount per month available at top speeds, unrestricted, no matter how much other users are putting through the network.
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[toggle title=”Does weather affect the dish?”]
Not usually, no. The dishes are designed to cope with adverse weather conditions including heavy rain, snow and wind speeds of up to 100mph. We take this in to consideration when finding the right place to install your dish and can install additional measures, such as a heating element for homes in areas of extreme weather conditions.
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[toggle title=”I want to watch UK programming online, like BBC iPlayer, is this possible?”]
Yes, this is possible provided you have a UK IP via a VPN service.
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[toggle title=”Can I use Skype?”]
Yes, it is possible to use Skype, however there can be a short delay as the signal is sent to the satellite and back. Skype calls use more data than other applications as it is essentially live streaming video.
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[toggle title=”Does Skype use a lot of Data?”]
It depends on the type of Skype call … normal voice conversations use around 125Kbs per second uploading and downloading. Video Skype calls are effectively streaming video so a lot more data is used.
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[toggle title=”How much data is used when streaming video from places like iPlayer or YouTube?”]
Approximately 700 MB for an hour long, standard definition video. Significantly more for High Definition videos.
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[toggle title=”Can I play online games?”]
In principle yes, but it is not recommended to play “first-person shooter” games because of the significantly longer ping times (approximately 600-800ms)
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[toggle title=”What is FAP?”]
To ensure fair internet access for all satellite broadband subscribers, Astrasat maintains a Fair Access Policy (FAP). This policy establishes an equitable balance in internet access for satellite broadband subscribers. Astrasat assigns a throughput threshold to each service plan that limits the amount of data that may be downloaded/uploaded during a specified period. A small percentage of subscribers who exceed this limit will experience a temporary reduction of speed.
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[toggle title=”What happens if I exceed my quota and go into FAP?”]
There are no financial penalties for exceeding your priority data quota. However once you have reached this cap you may find your speeds are reduced at peak times such as weekends/school holidays etc, but you can continue to use as much data as you want. To find our how to make the most of your data check out our blog.
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[toggle title=”Can I disconnect and reconnect my connection when I’m not using it?”]
Yes, for a small additional monthly fee you can choose the option to be able to switch off your system for up to 6 months once per 12 month period.
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[toggle title=”Do I need a phone or phone line?”]
No, the satellite system does not require a telephone line. It is a bi-directional satellite system therefore independent of the telephone lines.
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[toggle title=”How difficult is it for me to install the kit myself?”]
We provide an instructional video and all the hardware components required so it is not to difficult if you have basic tools and a good level of DIY skill. We are also available via phone to provide advice if necessary.
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[toggle title=”If I have a problem, can I call and speak to someone for advice?”]
Yes, we are available at any time to provide advice and answer your questions. Simply call us on +33624681728 or email connected @astrasat.tv
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[toggle title=”If I move, can I take the system with me?”]
Yes, the system will work anywhere in Europe.
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[toggle title=”How do I pay?”]
Payment is via direct debit each month from either a GBP or EUR bank account.
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[toggle title=”What support and warranty comes with the product?”]
The equipment is coverd by a 24month warranty.
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