EFTel has announced it will begin a rollout of VDSL2 capable hardware to at least 70 exchanges nationwide.

VDSL2 is a progression of ADSL2+, which offers speeds of up to 100Mbit/s (around four times faster than the maximum speed of ADSL2+). But VDSL2 is much more dependent on distance, with speeds comparable to ADSL2+ after 1.6KM. Therefore, only those very close to their local exchanges will be able to see improvement.

VDSL2 has yet to be ratified for use in Australia, but EFTel expects the process to complete early next year. It may have a head start on its competitors, as it will be able to roll out VDSL2 capable equipment from the beginning. Other providers may need to replace their ADSL2+ DSLAMs with new ones to enable the technology.

"EFTel's MSANs can deliver VDSL2, ADSL2+, traditional ADSL, SHDSL corporate solutions, normal PSTN Voice services, IP Video, VoIP, and Bare DSL", said the announcement. EFTel will use Huawei hardware, with backhaul provided by PIPE Networks. "Commencing in February 2008, the MSANs will be aggressively rolled out at a rate of 15 exchanges per month, with an initial schedule of 70 exchanges nationwide."

EFTel will be making the network available to its aaNet brand, as well as customers of its wholesale division, Datafast.

Links:

• EFTel announcement  (ASX, 1 Nov 2007)
• EFTel VDSL2 website