Hi-Wide, the not-for-profit company set up to implement the HIE's broadband scheme, held a meeting on Colonsay to explain the details of their plans for the island.

Hi-Wide use a localised wireless system (Wi-fi) to send and receive computer data over short distances rather than the phone or cable lines that most people are familiar with. A satellite link then connects the location to the Internet.

Due to Colonsay's topography there will be two base stations connected to a satellite link in Sacalsaig. The signal is then boosted from house to house so that all but one, very remote, property is included in the network.

The boosters are very unobtrusive, approximately the size and shape of a Pringles tin* and consume very little electricity.

The service will provide to types of package, business and home, connecting at 512kbps. Both cost £139 for the installation and the monthly costs are £25pcm for home and £44pcm for business.

HIE provide loans of up to £300 for businesses setting up broadband and of the ongoing costs are tax deductible (100% I think). They also have a better contention ratio (the number of people sharing a connection at the server), 30:1 compared to 50:1.

Residents were impressed with the presentation and the Tommy Beavitt came over as both down to earth and enthusiastic about the project.

Click HERE for the Hi-Wide website.

Click HERE for the 2000friends page on local broadband news.

Click HERE to register with HIE for their broadband scheme.

The figures above are taken from memory and might have to be revised. Thanks to Angela for sending in the information.

Posted by Richard Warwick.

*The internet is a lot like Pringles crisps, not much goodness, often leaves a nasty taste in the mouth but is somehow irresistible...