AS CABLE & Wireless Jamaica (CWJ) prepares to roll out wireless broadband Internet, customers in Montego Bay and surrounding areas who have been using the service for the last three months are giving it positive reviews.
CWJ's wireless network utilises microwave links enabling customers who may not have fixed-line service to get the same high speed Internet access that its ADSL subscribers currently enjoy. The technology allows the company to offer high-speed Internet and voice services in areas of the country where the terrain mitigates against cable-dependent services.
HIGH CAPACITY SERVICE
Various businesses, residents and educational institutions in the second city have been using the high-capacity service. The users are giving the service high marks for its utility and reliability.
"We are able to get real time, high quality video links with the U.K. using our messaging service on the Internet," said Clive Brown, a partner in Julia's Restaurant in Bogue Heights, St. James. "The system has been most reliable and it should be a great asset in some business plans we are now finalising."
Students at the Herbert Morrison Comprehensive High School in Montego Bay have found that the fast Internet access is particularly convenient for their research and assignments.
"Sixth formers and students doing SBA (CXC School Based Assessments) have been making very good use of the high-speed wireless connection," said Vivette James who teaches information technology. "They are very impressed with the reliability and the speed."
CWJ has deployed a state-of-the-art network, specifically designed for resilience and flexibility, in reading, Belmont, Westgate Hills, Unity Hall, Bogue Industrial Estate, Bogue Heights and Bogue Village.
"Wireless technology has come a long way in recent years and it's now a viable alternative in areas where it was not feasible to set up a fixed-line network," Roger Richards, CWJ's senior vice-president for Internet, Voice and Data explains. The company is currently preparing a roll-out of its wireless broadband service and is projecting significant customer take up over the next 12-15 months.
