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TPG Mobile Broadband FAQ’s


Service

1.1 What is Mobile Broadband?

1.2 Why should I use Mobile Broadband?

1.3 Where can I use TPG Mobile Broadband?

1.4 Which network does TPG use to deliver the TPG Mobile Broadband service?

1.5 Am I locked into a contract?

1.6 How can I use TPG Mobile Broadband?

1.7 What speed can I expect to get with TPG Mobile Broadband service?

1.8 Can I use TPG Mobile Broadband overseas?

1.9 Can I use TPG Mobile Broadband to send and receive text messages?

Hardware & Software

2.1 What equipment and software do I need to connect to TPG Mobile Broadband service?

2.2 What is a USB modem?

2.3 Can I use my own USB Modem?

2.4 What USB modems can I use with the TPG Mobile Broadband Service?

2.5 Is the TPG E1762 USB modem locked to TPG network?

2.6 How can I setup the TPG USB E1762 modem?

2.7 Can I use an Apple iPad with TPG Mobile Broadband?

2.8 How can I install the TPG Mobile Software?

2.9 Can I manually choose the network type for my connection?

2.10 What is the SP Code?

2.11 What is the APN?

2.12 How does the USB modem choose a network?

2.13 What do the different lights indicate?

2.14 What can I do if my modem is lost/stolen?

2.15 What are the minimum computer specifications required?

2.16 What is Micro SIM?

Billing & Usage

3.1 How will I be billed for my Mobile Broadband service?

3.2 Are uploads counted?

3.3 What happens to the remaining data if I use less than my monthly included data?

3.4 What happens when I use more than my monthly included data?

3.5 Will internet speeds be shaped once I have reached my included monthly data quota?

3.6 Where can I find information on Excess Data charges?

3.7 How do I check my data usage and monthly statement?

3.8 What can I do with 500MB of data?

Service

1.1. What is Mobile Broadband?

Mobile Broadband provides you with an internet connection while you are on the go. Simple Plug and Play process which gives access to high speed internet within TPG Mobile Broadband coverage using the 3G/Dual Band network. This is a portable wireless connection that allows you to stay connected at home, in the office, or when you're out and about. TPG Mobile broadband is portable, quick and easy access without the need for a fixed-line phone connection or messy cables.

1.2. Why should I use Mobile Broadband?

Mobile Broadband is a great option for anyone who wants convenient broadband access anytime, any place.

  • – TPG’s Mobile Broadband Go Plans are a cost effective option for light internet users who may not need an always-on ADSL/ADSL2+ internet connection. No setup fee and No lock-in contract.
  • – Mobile broadband is suited to those people who have busy lifestyles and are always out and about. Surf the net or check your emails in a    cafe with your colleagues or in the park with your families.
  • – You can stay connected to the internet when you are on holiday or traveling to another city.
  • – There is no need to go internet hot spot hunting. Take your laptop and broadband connection with you to Uni, the park or a café.
  • – Mobile broadband can also be used on your desktop computer. There is no need to pay home phone connection fees or long term contract    requirements. This is perfect for people who don‘t have fixed residency and students or tenants on short-term lease.
  • – TPG’s pay-as-you-go Mobile Broadband is a cost effective option for light internet users who may not need an always-on ADSL    internet connection. No setup fee and lock-in contract.
  • – Mobile Broadband can be a great way to supplement your home broadband package when you have reached your download quota and    speeds have been shaped.
1.3. Where can I use TPG Mobile Broadband?

TPG Mobile Broadband is only available in TPG’s Mobile Broadband Coverage area and is subject to network limitations and hardware capabilities. Compatible 3G capable devices are required.

TPG Mobile Broadband Coverage covers the greater metropolitan areas of most Australian capital cities and some regional areas. It is important to check whether TPG Mobile Broadband is available in your area before you sign up. Click here to check the availability. See [coverage page] to view full TPG Mobile Broadband coverage map. 100% availability cannot be guaranteed at any specific location due to many factors.

1.4. Which network does TPG use to deliver the TPG Mobile Broadband service?

TPG’s Mobile Broadband service is delivered to you via the Optus 3G/Dual Band Network (900Mhz/2100Mhz). Our entire mobile network currently covers over 96% of the Australian population.

1.5. Am I locked into a contract?

No. With TPG Mobile Broadband there is no lock-in contract period.

1.6. How can I use TPG Mobile Broadband?

It is quick and easy to get online as installation and setup is straightforward. Just plug your USB Modem/Dongle (with a TPG SIM) into your laptop or desktop to get connected with TPG Mobile Broadband. iPad / Tablet users only need a Micro Sim to connect to the web through TPG Mobile Broadband.

1.7. What speed can I expect to get with TPG Mobile Broadband service?

7.2Mbps (HSDPA) and 2Mbps (HSUPA) are theoretical maximums. Average downlink speed between 512Kbps - 3.0Mbps and uplink speed between 512Kbps - 1.2Mbps and both are available in selected locations only. Other locations within the 3G/Dual Band coverage area provide average downlink speeds of between 512Kbps - 1.5 Mbps. Outside of these areas you will fall back to GSM/GPRS network (slower speed of up to 64kbps). Actual speed achieved varies depending on factors such as:

  • – your distance from the mobile tower & capacity and load of the mobile tower
  • – which bearer you are currently using (GSM, 3G or dual band)
  • – variable signal strength (e.g. basements, lifts, underground car parks, large concrete    buildings, or road cuttings)
  • – hardware capabilities & software
  • – source of your download
  • – volume of network traffic (the number of people using the mobile network in the area)

The following table can be used as a guide of the speed you can expect to depending on network.

 
Available Network Speeds
Device Theoretical Download Speed Specifications Typical Achievable Download Speed Device Theoretical Upload Speed Specifications Typical Achievable Upload Speed
3.6Mbps   512 Kbps - 1.5Mbps   384Kbps   100Kbps - 250Kbps
7.2Mbps   512 Kbps - 3.0Mbps   2Mbps   512Kbps - 1.2Mbps
1.8. Can I use TPG Mobile Broadband overseas?

No. The TPG Mobile Broadband service is only available to customers within Australia via the TPG 3G or Dual Band networks (delivered on Optus networks).

1.9. Can I use TPG Mobile Broadband to send and receive text messages?

Yes. You can send/receive national and international SMS's to/from another mobile or Mobile Broadband service. Click on the "Text" icon in the software. The SMS will be sent from the TPG Mobile Broadband number.

Hardware & Software

2.1. What equipment and software do I need to connect to TPG Mobile Broadband service?

To access the TPG Mobile Broadband service, you will need:

  • – A compatible USB modem (purchased from TPG or BYO, not required for ipad/tablet)
  • – An active TPG Mobile Broadband SIM or Micro SIM
  • – A laptop, iPad or desktop PC that meets the minimum system requirements
  • – TPG Mobile Broadband connection software installed
2.2. What is a USB modem?

The USB Modem is also known as an internet key, internet stick or dongle, is a USB device that plugs into your computer for a wireless internet connection.

The USB Modem uses the same technology as mobile phone, except instead of making a voice call from your mobile phone, you are making a data connection from your computer to the internet.

2.3. Can I use my own USB Modem?

Yes. If you already have a USB modem for mobile broadband, you can bring your own modem to access TPG Mobile Broadband under the following conditions

  • – Your modem is compatible with Dual Band network (900MHz/2100MHz)
  • – Your own USB modem is unlocked. You need to contact your current service provider to unlock it if you are locked to another network
  • – Your modem has a SIM card slot so you can plug in our TPG Mobile Broadband SIM card
2.4. What USB modems can I use with the TPG Mobile Broadband Service?

The following modems are compatible with the TPG Mobile Broadband Service:

  • – HUAWEI E1762 USB Modem (preferred)
  • – HUAWEI E169 USB Modem
  • – HUAWEI E220 USB Modem
  • – HUAWEI E160E

Note: If you choose to bring your own modem, TPG may not be able to provide you technical support for that particular modem and reserves the right to refer you to the modem manufacturer for technical assistance.

2.5. Is the TPG E1762 USB modem locked to TPG network?

No. There is no network lock on the TPG USB E1762 Modem that you purchase from us outright.

2.6. How can I setup the TPG USB E1762 modem?

Follow the step-by-step instructions in the TPG Mobile Broadband Quick Setup Guide. Click Here to download.

2.7. Can I use an Apple iPad with TPG Mobile Broadband?

Yes, you can.

  1. Choose a TPG Micro SIM during signup.
  2. Insert the Micro SIM into your 3G iPad.
  3. Connect your iPad to your computer and allow it to sync with iTunes.
  4. If you are offered a 'Carrier Settings Update' by iTunes, accept the update.
  5. On your iPad, tap the "Settings" icon.
  6. Tap "Cellular Data" on the left side of the screen, then tap "APN Settings" on the right side of the screen.
  7. Tap the "APN" field, and enter the APN as "TPG". Leave the Username and Password fields blank.
  8. Press the Home button to go back to home page.
  9. Reboot your iPad (press and hold the Power button, slide the Power Off slider, then turn your iPad back on again).
  10. When your iPad has finished booting, you should be able to access the Internet via your TPG Mobile Broadband service.

Click here to download the instructions on "How to change APN setting on iPad".

2.8. How can I install the TPG Mobile Broadband Software?

Once you plug in your USB modem to your computer, the OS automatically detects and recognises new hardware and starts the installation wizard. Follow the step-by-step instructions in the TPG Mobile Broadband Setup Guide. Click here to download the Guide.

2.9. Can I manually choose the network type for my connection?

Yes. You may choose to override the automatic operation of the TPG Mobile Broadband connection software and choose one of the available networks to operate the service. During handover between networks there may be a short period of time (between 15-45 seconds) during which data does not transfer.

2.10. What is the SP Code?

You need to enter the SP Code "TPG" only once when you install the TPG Mobile Broadband software.

2.11. What is the APN?

APN means Access Point Name, used in establishing packet data connections. The APN for accessing TPG Mobile Broadband is "TPG".

2.12 How does the USB modem choose a network?

The TPG E1762 USB modem and software automatically selects the strongest signal from the 3G/dual band/GSM mobile networks, so when you're on the move, your connection is maintained. Your wireless modem and software continually monitors network availability and will connect you to the network in the following order:

  • 3G and dual band network; and
  • GSM network.
2.13. What do the different lights indicate?
Green Blinking twice every 3 seconds. The USB modem is on
Green Blinking once every 3 seconds. The USB modem is registered to a 2G network (GPRS network - weak coverage strength/slow speeds).
Blue Blinking once every 3 seconds. The USB modem is registered to a 3G network (UMTS network - good coverage strength/fast speeds).
Green On The USB modem is connected to a 2G network (GPRS network - weak coverage strength/slow speeds).
Blue On The USB modem is connected to a 3G network (WCDMA network - good coverage strength/fast speeds.
Cyan On The USB modem is connected to a 3G+ network (HSDPA network - strong coverage strength/super fast speeds.
No colour Off The USB modem is removed.
2.14. What can I do if my modem is lost/stolen?

If your SIM card or modem is lost or stolen, please report to us via our website or call 13 14 23 to arrange for replacement. Once we are notified, we will block your service to avoid unauthorised usage.

2.15. What are the minimum computer specifications required?
  • Standard USB 2.0 interface
  • Microsoft Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS X 10.3.7 or above.
  • 100 MB free hard disk space or above.
  • 128 MB RAM or above.
2.16. What is Micro SIM?

The Micro SIM is a new type of SIM card which is used for the iPad or other 3G capable tablet devices. To connect using TPG Mobile Broadband with your iPad/Tablet, you will need a TPG Micro SIM card. TPG Mobile Broadband is perfect for iPad/Tablet users as you will not be making or receiving mobile calls using your iPad/Tablet. Simply choose the plan that suits your level of mobile data usage.

Micro SIM is 12mm * 15mm, which is smaller than the standard size SIM card at 15mm* 25mm.

Standard Sim Micro Sim

Micro SIM is designed to offer more storage space on-chip for applications, increased control and security functions.

Billing & Usage

3.1 How will I be billed for my Mobile Broadband service?

TPG’s Mobile Broadband service is provided on prepaid basis. TPG will debit your bank account/credit card for the following initial charges during the registration process.

  • Equipment (if you purchase USB Modem from TPG)
  • SIM charge
  • Delivery of USB Modem and SIM (if not collected from TPG 65 Waterloo Rd, North Ryde NSW 2113)
  • First month's monthly charge
  • Deposit: $20 that is kept as a Security Deposit and used to pay for any excess data usage. Excess data usage is considered any data usage that goes above your included monthly data quota. When deposit falls below $5, TPG will debit a sufficient amount from your bank account/credit card to top it back again to $20. If your data usage is high, this can occur more than once per month and more than $20 might need to be debited. When you register for this service you authorise TPG to make such debits to your account/credit card. If you do not exceed your monthly included data quota, your deposit will not be debited. We will send you SMS messages about your usage and the debits during the month. Your service will become inactive if our attempts to debit credit card/bank account to top up your deposit are unsuccessful. Any unused Security Deposit will be refunded back to you once you cancel the service.

Each month thereafter, you will be charged 7 days prior to the end of the monthly period for the following month's monthly charge.

3.2. Is uploads counted?

Yes, both downloads and uploads are counted.

3.3. What happens to the remaining data if I use less than my monthly included data?

If you have used less than your included monthly data quota, the remaining data will expire at the end of the month.

3.4. What happens when I use more than my monthly included data?

You will be charged for excess data usage at the excess data rate advertised. Excess data charge will be taken out of your Deposit. It's important to remember:

  • – If your Deposit falls below $5 at any time, you will be debited an amount sufficient to restore the Deposit balance to $20.
  • – If your data usage is high, the deposit balance can be restored multiple times a day.
  • – TPG will endeavour to warn you via SMS when you are about to exceed and have exceeded your included monthly data quota. TPG receives    information regarding usage and displays it to you (via the “Your Account” section of this website) up to 24 hours after you accrue it.    Therefore we are not able to immediately warn you about heavy usage. You are responsible for any usage irrespective of any warnings.
3.5. Will internet speeds be shaped once I have reached my included monthly data quota?

No. Excess Data rate will apply when you have reached your monthly included data.

3.6. Where can I find information on Excess Data charges?

View our Mobile Broadband data rates at http://www.tpg.com.au/mobilebroaband/plans.php.

3.7. How do I check my data usage and monthly statement?

To keep track of your data usage at any time simply log into “Your Account” at www.tpg.com.au. With “Your Account”, you can check your data usage, see your monthly statement and update your details.

Please note TPG re lies on our network carrier to provide us with data usage records. and there may be a delay of up to 24 hours in updating your usage data.

3.8. What can I do with 500MB of data?

As a general guide, 500MB of data will get you:

  • Send or receive 500 Outlook/HTML Emails,
  • Surf the Web for 10 hours,
  • Watch 5 four minute YouTube video clips,
  • Download 10 four minute music tracks, and
  • Download 20 photos

Usage as a guide based on the following assumptions: Email sent or received 100KB, web browsing at 30MB per hour, YouTube 4min video clip at 8MB per clip, music download at 4MB per track, photo downloads at 2MB per photo.



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