BroadBand on Mobile (or HSDPA) is providing very much higher up and down-link as compared to 3G (see previous question). For example, a MP3 (approximately 1 min audio) of 1MB will take about 20 sec to download in 3G, but about 5 sec in 3.5G. a typical speed of 3.6Mbps (9 times faster than 3G) with a reduced response time, HSDPA offers advanced multimedia and high speed services with an overall better experience.

High-Speed Downlink Packet Access or HSDPA is a new mobile data protocol and is sometimes referred to as a 3.5G (or "3½G") technology.

Yes, roaming will be available initially in Germany, Austria and Portugal. It must be noted however that it is very costly and potentially more so than 3G due to the increased ability to download more data. Current 3G data roaming rates apply. No, there are multiple manufacturers available of 3G and HSDPA Mobile Data cards. To identify your card, look at the serial number on the back of the card.

HSDPA is part of 3G but people have started referring it as 3.5G. Some other group has started referring to HSDPA as 'Super-3G' but they have proposed more enhancements (details below).

When you are connected via 3G HSDPA, you will seamlessly move between HSDPA and 3G, as they use the same network infrastructure. The flashing lights will however indicate which bearer you are using – 1 flash for GPRS, 2 for 3G and 3 for HSDPA. Whilst using your HSDPA Mobile Data Connect card, you will be able to check what network you are logged onto by checking the bottom left hand corner of the software.

All 3G enabled base stations have been upgraded to also support HSDPA, however the coverage is not identical as the HSDPA network is more sensitive to external influences such as indoor coverage, topography and weather conditions.

Globe Mobile Broadband 3G with HSDPA is the latest mobile broadband innovation from Globe. It is better and more powerful than 3G. On top of the regular 3G services like Video Call and Multimedia Streaming, HSDPA allows for high-speed Internet browsing of up to 1.4 Mbps (megabits/second), with peaks of up to 1.8 Mbps – rather than the previous 384 kbps (kilobits/second) available on 3G.

Yes, the 3G Vodafone Mobile Connect cards will still be available. Different deals will be structured between 3G and 3G HSDPA cards. The 3G HSDPA cards will obviously be more expensive than the 3G cards when purchased for cash.

Yes the existing Linksys Routers are compatible however a firmware upgrade to the router will have to be done. The upgraded firmware will be available by the 1st of June 2006 on www.vodacom.co.za

G is a generic term covering a range of future wireless network technologies, including cdma2000, UMTS, GPRS, WCDMA and EDGE.

No, unfortunately the current cards cannot be upgraded to support HSDPA. Customers will need to purchase the new HSDPA enabled Vodafone Mobile Connect cards.

Current 3G handsets are not compatible however new HSDPA enabled handsets are likely to become more readily available in the future.

Under perfect conditions one would get speeds of up to 1.8 Mbps, but expect to see speeds of between 400 Kbps and 800 Kbps with peaks of approximately 1.2 Mbps.

Yes, when the signal drops off you will be able to access the 3G, Edge and GPRS network in the same manner as with the 3G Data cards.

The HSDPA/3G network has the intelligence to supply you with increased bandwidth, where available, only as you require it thereby providing a far more efficient utilisation of bandwidth. For instance, searching for a Web site on Google would not require large bandwidth, yet downloading a large video clip would require a lot more bandwidth and thus will allocate you more bandwidth only when you start downloading.

Yes! Globe Mobile Broadband 3G gives you access to all the basic 3G services, like video calling and streaming.

Yes! starting April 30, 2006, Globe will automatically activate your current GHP SIM card so you can enjoy all the Globe Mobile Broadband 3G services (provided you are using a 3G handset and are in a Globe Mobile Broadband 3G covered area). For any concerns, you may reach us at 730-1000 or call 211 for FREE from your Globe Handyphone.

Yes! Globe 3G is open to all Globe subscribers, both postpaid and prepaid (Touch Mobile subscribers not currently included)

bull; a 3G handset such as the N70, N90, N6680, N91, SE W900, SE Z800, SE K608 among others, or a 3G/HSDPA data card (only hi-speed internet browsing will be available) Globe will automatically activate your current Globe Handyphone SIM card for 3G services starting April 30, 2006. All new Globe SIM cards issued after this date will already be 3G-activated. For any concerns, you may reach us at 730-1000 or call 211 for FREE from your Globe Handyphone for more details.