With the relaunch of Telstra broadband, we invited Dan Warne from Australian Personal Computer to talk about broadband connections. There's a massive range of plans available and it's easy to end up spending too much. The important message is to shop around before committing to a contract.

Most of our callers were also about broadband. Regional callers in particular are concerned about ISDN and the charges. Some of our callers included.

Complaining to the TIO

The Telecoms Industry Ombudsman is an important part of the Australian communications industry. If you are not getting a fair go from an Internet provider or telephone company the TIO should be the first place to make a complaint. James called to say that his problem with a pair gain phone line was only resolved after he complained to them.

ISDN connections

We don't tend to treat ISDN as broadband because of the speed and connection method. However Telstra are revamping their ISDN plans to make always on broadband more available. Like the broadband plans you need to understand any ISDN plan you enter. It can be very expensive if your plan is wrong.

Talking printers

Cyril called to ask about printers that talk. What we think he means is the software tells you what the printer is doing. Many brands have the facility to tell you this

Thanks to all the listeners and callers, as usual our apologies to those who couldn’t get through. Our next spot should be around 29 August. If you’d like to kept informed of our upcoming advice spots, subscribe to our newsletter.