Frequently asked questions about the Coop

• Why all this struggle with Qwest?
  • Why didn't you simply use a wireless solution instead of renting subloops from Qwest?
  • Why didn't you simply bury your own cable instead of renting subloops from Qwest?
  • Why don't you simply use a broadband satellite connection?
  • Why are the modem speeds provided on Qwest phone lines so slow? And why won't Qwest provide DSL?
  • Why didn't you simply use cable modem Internet access instead of fighting with Qwest?
• Infrastructure
  • What equipment are you using?
  • What did it cost initially?
  • What did it cost to add ADSL capability to the Coop's system, and to convert subscribers to ADSL?
• Startup issues
  • How did you go about requesting an interconnection agreement with Qwest?
  • Do you have to be a CLEC to rent subloops?
  • Is your interconnection agreement online?
  • Did you have to obtain an ACNA and an OCN? How did you obtain them?
• System design issues
  • Why did you switch from SDSL to ADSL? What is "the $24 problem?"
  • Why did you initially use SDSL? Why did you not use line sharing from the start?
  • Exactly what DSL technology are you using? What DSL chip are you using?
  • What line speeds do subscribers get? Do they get a dedicated IP address? Can they operate servers?
  • Why did you place the DSLAM at the cross-connect box rather than at the SLC (remote terminal)?
  • How exactly does your temperature monitor work?
  • How is your DSLAM programmed?
  • How do you have MRTG configured?
• Implementation issues
  • What exactly do you order from Qwest to hook up a new subscriber?
  • How long does Qwest take to connect new lines?
  • What quality of lines has Qwest provided?
  • How do you do a mechanized loop test?
  • How reliable is your point-to-point microwave link?
  • How do you monitor your system?
  • What do you suggest your subscribers use for lightning protection?
  • What about burglar alarm systems and shared-line DSL?
  • How do you test and troubleshoot ADSL lines in the field?
• Financial planning issues
  • What were your startup costs?
  • What are the non-recurring costs associated with adding a subscriber?
  • What are your recurring costs?
  • What do you charge your subscribers to sign up?
  • What will you charge your subscribers per month?
  • How many subscribers did you need to decide to launch service?
• Diagrams, maps and photographs
  • May we see a system diagram?
  • May we see a neighborhood map?
  • May we see a map showing the neighborhood and the telco central office?
  • May we see the Field Connection Point?
• Other Internet Coops and local broadband efforts
  • Are there other Internet Coops?
  • How have others set up local broadband systems?
• From the first concept to launch
  • What was the time line?