A study of internet speeds conducted by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) for subscribers to the National Broadband Network (NBN) has found computer modems could have a negative impact on performance.
Chair of ACMA, Nerida O’Loughlin said the study considered how modems might affect a consumer’s experience of their NBN-based service.
Ms O’Loughlin said it looked at performance when connecting directly to the NBN as well as Wi-Fi performance.
“All modems except one in the study performed strongly when directly connected to NBN,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“However, the Wi-Fi performance of the modems tested ranged from mediocre to excellent,” she said.
“Most consumers connect to the NBN using a modem supplied by their telco; others may choose to buy a modem from a retailer.”
She said 43 modems used for fibre-to-the-node and fibre-to-the-building connections —including modems supplied by telcos and modems for sale at retail electronic stores — were tested in December 2018 and January this year.
“The study found that Wi-Fi performance can be seriously affected by interference, obstacles and the frequency that it operates on — either the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz band,” Ms O’Loughlin said.
“The study showed that the 5 GHz band provided superior coverage.
“The study also tested the performance of these modems in what might be both typical and more challenging circumstances inside a consumer’s home.
“This included testing through walls, at long distances and in the presence of interference in cabling and from common household devices.”
ACMA’s 43-page report can be accessed at this PS News link.
