[LINK] Cables in the ground

[David Boxall]

The term "landline" has been somewhat compromised. These days, it's 
often used to refer to communications that don't involve a physical 
cable. Hence the subject line.

The push is on to relieve Telstra (and our government) of responsibility 
for cables in the ground. Given the durability and capabilities of 
optical fibre, I reckon we should be running more of it, not trying to 
pretend that less is better.

<http://www.northqueenslandregister.com.au/story/4400889/gregory-back-on-the-radar/>
> “The universal service obligation on landlines, which is currently 
> subject to a Productivity Commission inquiry, must be maintained 
> despite the current push by corporate stakeholders and government 
> representatives to see it scrapped.
>
> “The belief that the VOIP services offered by various internet service 
> providers on the Skymuster NBN service can replace current landline 
> services is misguided. Indeed, the NBN’s own material states that this 
> service does not replace your normal telephone landline and should not 
> be relied upon for emergency calls.
>
> “As soon as there is the slightest indication of overcast weather/rain 
> the internet goes out and remains out.
>
> “The Skymuster service is more sensitive to cloud shading than 
> previous satellite internet offerings.

-- 
David Boxall                    |  My figures are just as good
                                 |  as any other figures.
http://david.boxall.id.au       |  I make them up myself, and they
                                 |  always give me innocent pleasure.
                                 |                     --HL Mencken