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NTL - Milton Keynes Council Broadband Wireless Trial Update

Steven Jewell, the Head of IT at MK Council, discussed the trial's progress with me on 12/1/04. Here are my notes:

New Web Page and Email Address

There’s a new Council Web Page:
www.mkweb.co.uk/broadband

And a new email address. Please email the Council regarding any Wireless Broadband issue using:
broadbandtrial@milton-keynes.gov.uk

Time Frame for Applications

Mr Jewell agreed the process for applications can run into several weeks: some of the triallists that had posted in their completed application forms had not yet been acknowledged.

Now, as of January, NTL have all the application forms and it's anticipated that they will be getting in touch.

“If anyone is concerned that they’ve been forgotten, do get in touch with the Council by emailing broadbandtrial@milton-keynes.gov.uk.”

Cherry Picker

Mr Jewell acknowledged that they were still seeking additional connections and would continue to do so for some time to come.

The deployment engineers now have the use of a “Cherry Picker”, a vehicle with a telescopic tower. The antenna site on a trialist’s house can now be located at lot easier. Struggling with ladders was too difficult.

Trial Extension

It is likely that he trial will be extended to the end of June 2004. “It’s important that that we wait until the trees are fully in leaf. We need to observe any problems with the 10GHz radio signal. Foliage is a problem.”

The Council are reconsidering the numbers participating in the trial and these might be increased. (This is partly subject to funding being available from SEEDA.)

Extra Base Station Site

The existing radio mast at Bow Brickhill is being actively considered as a second base station site. If equipment is installed there, this will be good news to trialists that aren't able to “see” the Linford Wood tower.

Test Beacons

NTL engineers are also considering experimental test radio beacons on several other high points around Milton Keynes. They will provide a signal that engineers can use to demonstrate the merit of these sites as suitable future base stations.

Praise for NTL

“I’ve no qualms with our relationship with NTL. They’re diligent, committed and a good business partner.”

Testimonials

“I have a stack of emails from satisfied trialists. They are really grateful and say the service is first class.”

Links

Milton Keynes Broadband Home

Activities

NTL Wireless Broadband Pilot

If you live in Milton Keynes, and want Broadband, let us know!