Agriseeds grows efficiency with JetStream
The availability of broadband in an outlying area of the Canterbury Plains has increased the operational efficiency of
pastoral seed business, Agriseeds.
Like most businesses, Agriseeds needs a high-speed Internet connection for efficient email and Internet access.
Agriseeds information systems manager Linda Redmond says Telecom’s broadband services have transformed processes for the
25 on-site staff working at the company’s 160ha research farm near Darfield.
“Since adopting broadband in May, our company has improved operations through our staff using email and the Internet
more efficiently, without the frustrations of slow connections via dial up.”
Redmond says the company, which is located about 13km from Darfield, worked closely with Telecom to extend broadband
into the rural heartland.
“The service from Telecom was excellent,” Redmond says. Telecom provided a complete Internet product called Secure
Business Internet, which incorporates a broadband connection, ISP access and managed security features. The broadband
connection selected was a high-speed data circuit called Frame Relay, which provides the flexibility of bandwidth on
demand.
Telecom also has a range of other options for providing broadband connectivity, such as its popular JetStream service,
which is becoming increasingly available in rural areas thanks to new technology called mini DSLAM (Digital Subscriber
Line Access Multiplexer). mini DSLAM is housed in Telecom’s roadside cabinets, allowing Telecom to extend JetStream
coverage to rural areas. JetStream Full Speed has download speeds of up to 50 times faster than a standard dial-up
connection, which makes using the Internet more efficient. Because it is an “always-on” Internet connection, users don’t
need to dial-up every time they want to go online, and they can talk on the phone or use a fax at the same time.
Telecom manager for Rural Investment Stuart Smith says mini DSLAM technology allows Telecom to react quickly to demand
for JetStream in rural areas.
“We take the telecommunications needs of our rural customers very seriously, and we’re pleased to be able to support
business and growth in the rural sector.”
“Extending fast Internet services in rural New Zealand is a major priority for Telecom. We aim to provide coverage to
almost all New Zealanders by June next year, which will mean a substantial investment in the rural network.”
“The new technology makes JetStream upgrades to the network more viable for smaller groups of customers so is an
important part of our plans for rural areas,” he says.
For more information on Telecom’s broadband services, contact Telecom’s Business Solution Centre on 126 or contact your
Telecom Account Manager.