Telstra Upgrades Mobile Data Speeds

Australian network operator, Telstra has upgraded its Ericsson supplied network to support peak network uplink speeds of 5.8Mbps. Michael Rocca, Group Managing Director, Telstra Networks & Services, said the increased uplink speeds complement the world leading download speeds available in the network since the deployment of HSPA+ technology across the Next G network footprint late last year.

"These increased uplink speeds complete our initial HSPA+ equation, giving our customers download and upload speeds that are at the cutting edge of commercial mobile technology," Mr Rocca said.

While actual customer upload speeds are slower than 5.8Mbps, customers are able to experience typical upload speeds of 300kbps - 3Mbps. These enhanced upload speeds are available in all capital cities, metropolitan areas and selected regional locations when using a 5.8Mbps rated device. Typical upload speeds will be 300kbps - 1Mbps in other areas.

Telstra also confirmed that business customers using the Telstra Turbo 21 mobile broadband USB can upgrade their device to take advantage of the new enhanced upload speeds. Ross Fielding, Executive Director, Telstra Product Management, said Telstra customers using Telstra Turbo 21 USB modems are able to upgrade their devices to take advantage of the faster uplink speeds, with other enhanced upload speed devices expected to be available in the near future.

"World first device technology developed in conjunction with Sierra Wireless will give existing customers with Telstra Turbo 21 devices access to the higher uplink speeds from today," Mr Fielding said.

"A simple software upgrade is immediately available for download at www.sierrawireless.com/support or customers will receive an over the air upgrade from this weekend. Upgrades to selected other Telstra and BigPond devices will be available in coming weeks.

Posted to the site on 23rd June 2009