Datasheet

Broadband Varieties
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Step 3: Using the options from Step 2, create a matrix that lists the advantages and
disadvantages of each broadband type.
Step 4: Share your research with the class or another group.
Suggested Activity Examples:
Broadband Variations*
Broadband Type
Advantages
Disadvantages
DSL
High-speed downloads of up to
1.5 Mb/s, which can be more or
less depending on the ISP.
Business-level DSL service offers
guaranteed data rates.
Uses existing telephone wiring, but
allows Internet use and land-line
telephone use at the same time.
Not every telephone line will work;
the ISP may need to perform an
analysis.
Speed drops as you get further
from telephone company central
office.
May not be as widely available as
cable.
Cable
Speeds are not dependent on
distance from central office.
Faster maximum speeds (2 Mb/s+)
than DSL, which depends upon
ISP.
May be cheaper than DSL,
especially when bundled with TV.
May require professional
installation.
Line shared with others in
neighborhood; speeds can vary.
May place limits on data
downloads and uploads
determined by the ISP.
Satellite
Gives a broadband option to rural
areas or non-traditional locations,
although there are virtually no
geographic restrictions.
Download speeds are comparable
to DSL and Cable, with 1 Mb/s
download.
Can experience disruptions due to
weather.
May be more expensive than DSL
or cable due to equipment required
(satellite dish).
Lower speeds can result due to
latency of satellite signals.
*http://reviews.cnet.com/4520-6536_7-726601-5.html (DSL and Cable information)
*http://www.fcc.gov/guides/getting-broadband (Satellite information)
Identify elements of the model that map to IT-related content:
 Broadband types
 DSL
 Cable
 Satellite
 Options available to broadband types
 Broadband advantages and disadvantages