Broadband FAQs
Got a question about your broadband? Check out these FAQs for help.
DOCSIS 3
Data Blocks
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, give us a call on 13 30 61.
DOCSIS 3
What is DOCSIS 3 broadband?
Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) 3 provides broadband services over a HFC (hybrid fiber-coaxial) network.
Do I need a modem to connect to DOCSIS 3?
If you live in a TransACT HFC area, we will supply you with a cable modem to connect to your TransACT services.
Does TransACT provide data with its plans?
In Victoria, TransACT is a fully integrated Internet Service Provider (ISP) so we can provide you with both the connection to the network and data services in one place.
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Data Blocks
What are Data Blocks and how do they work?
Data Blocks are an easy way to boost your standard monthly download allowance by allowing you to purchase additional data for peak and/or off-peak periods as you need it. You can buy a Data Block either before or after you have reached your monthly download quota. The additional data is then applied to your account.
If your speed has already been shaped, purchasing a Data Block will reset you to your normal connection speeds unless you have exceeded your download allowance by more than the size of the Data Block.
If you have already exceeded your monthly download allowance, then any additional data you have used will be deducted from the total Data Block allowance for the applicable peak or off-peak period that the Data Block has been allocated to. For example, if you are on a 1GB plan and have used 500MB of excess data, then purchase an additional 3GB Data Block, you will only be able to use 2.5GB of this as the excess data already consumed will be deducted from the Data Block.
Here are some examples:
Simon is on a 10GB HomeWEB plan and has used 4GB peak data already. He would have another 1GB of 'full speed' peak download allowance before being shaped to 64kbps. He can purchase a 1GB Data Block for $10; effectively making his monthly quota 5GB peak data + 1GB peak Data Block = 6GB peak data. As a result, Simon will not be shaped unless he downloads another 2GB during peak times in the billing month.
Sally is on a 5GB Premium plan+ and has used 6GB already. She has already exceeded her monthly download allowance, and has been shaped for the last 1GB of traffic. She can purchase a 3GB data block for $20; effectively making her monthly quota 5 + 3 = 8GB. As a result, Sally will be 'unshaped' and can download another 2GB of traffic during the billing month.
When can Data Blocks be used?
Once you have bought a Data Block online, the extra data allowance will be available to use instantly.
Data Blocks can be purchased for either on-peak or off-peak periods. Peak hours are between 7am and 1am and off-peak hours are between 1am and 7am. If your standard broadband plan has a peak and off-peak download period, you will need to specify which period you would like to purchase the Data Block for. For example, if you purchase a peak Data Block, this can only be used between peak hours of 7am and 1am.
If your standard broadband plan does not have a peak and off-peak download period, any Data Blocks you purchase can be used at any time.
How will I get billed for Data Blocks?
Charges for any Data Blocks purchased will appear on your next bill.
When will my Data Block expire?
Your Data Block will last from the date of purchase until the first day of the next billing cycle. Any unused data in the Data Block will be forfeited at the end of the billing cycle and cannot be rolled into the following month.
How do I purchase a Data Block?
To purchase a Data Block login to the Your Account tool and buy it online. Alternatively, give us a call on 13 30 61.
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