Phone and mobile data information
From LCA2012
Contents |
Local wired/wireless network
See Conference Network page for information on the local wireless (802.11) and wired networking at the conference, and the university accommodation.
Free SIP
Rob Thomas (aka @xrobau) is providing Free SIP for the conference.
Social networking
For general information on social networking, flickr groups, etc, see the Communication page.
Cellular / Mobile
Below is a brief summary of the coverage provided by each of the phone services in Ballarat:
Telstra
Telstra has full coverage of Ballarat and the surrounding district, including the University campus. Like most regional areas of Australia, you will get the best coverage and data speeds with Telstra. Telstra operates on the 850/2100MHz 3G bands.
Telstra shops
- Bridge Mall, Cnr Bridge Mall & Peel Street, Ballarat (Open 7 days).
- Stockland Shopping Centre Wendouree, Corner Norman and Gillies St, Wendouree (Open 5 days).
Optus
Optus have full coverage for calls, however their data is slow even when you have full reception. Optus operates on the 900/2100MHz 3G bands.
Vodafone
Vodafone have patchy coverage for calls, and essentially no data coverage at all on campus.
International Visitor Information
Please ensure that your cellphone/data card will work with whatever network you chose, in particular remember there are two UMTS frequency bands — 850 and 900 MHz — and a number of smart phones will only support one or the other. If you are in doubt, check the technical specs of your phone.
Driving and mobile phones
Using a mobile phone (to talk, text, navigate, watch a movie etc.) while driving is illegal and will attract a $285 fine + 3 demerit points. Hands-free kits are allowed.
Purchasing SIM cards
Some network providers require photo ID to purchase SIM cards, and some even require Australian credit cards to top up (in particular with iPad plans) - please make sure you ask the salesperson whether you can use a non-australian credit card when doing topups.
