Terminology

What is broadband connectivity?

Broadband and connectivity are used interchangeably to describe high-speed Internet access.  Broadband makes it possible to send text, video and voice by cable, digital subscriber line, fibre optics or wireless connections.
Broadband eliminates waiting for dial-up connections and greatly improves the efficiency and ease of using the Internet. 

What is Last Mile?

Last Mile refers to the distribution of high-speed connectivity within a community, i.e. the connections between end users (customers) and an Internet service provider (ISP) in the community. Three technologies are now in widespread use by ISPs: cable modem, DSL and wireless. These are known as access technologies.

What is CCA?

CCA is an acronym for Connecting Communities Agreement, a reference to an initiative launched by the Province of BC in 2005. Specifically, it is an agreement between the Province and TELUS whereby Telus will upgrade network facilities in designated remote communities to enable local Internet service providers (ISPs) to make the last-mile connection, and provide high speed Internet to homes, business, schools and hospitals. Some First Nation communities have already benefited from this initiative.

What is a POP?

When a telecommunications provider constructs the connectivity infrastructure (cable, ADSL cable, fibre optic, etc.) to the "edge of town” for any particular community, they are establishing a Point-of-Presence or "POP.” From the POP, connectivity signals must be transmitted to an ISP.

What is an ISP?

An Internet service provider is an entity (association or for-profit business) established for the purpose of offering connections to the Internet. Some cable and telephone companies act as ISPs to broad areas while small private organizations may offer service to smaller areas such as a single community or group of communities.

What is telehealth?

Telehealth is the use of technology to deliver health services over distance.

Telehealth has existed since the introduction of the telegraph, but new technology has expanded the possibilities for its use in medicine. Exciting tools such as tele-radiology, tele-psychiatry and the medical use of video conferencing are only available if a broadband infrastructure is in place.

What is the difference between ADSL, cable, fibre and satellite connectivity?

ADSL – This is the technology used by phone companies to deliver high-speed Internet connectivity to homes and businesses. This technology represents an advancement over dial-up because it permits data transmissions at the same time that the telephone is being used. ADSL is an acronym for Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line.

Cable – the technology that allows Internet service to be provided over the same coaxial cable wiring used for cable television. Cable modems do not interfere with television signal transmission; both can be used at the same time.

Fibre – Refers to thin flexible glass fibre used to transmit information using pulses of light instead of electricity. A fibre can span longer distances than an electrical cable.

Satellite – An orbiting satellite beams signals to a receiver tower located in or near the community.