Upgrading from ADSL to FTTC

[#1]

I'm currently out of contract on an Unlimited Broadband (ADSL Copper) connection at around 13.5Mb/s, looking to upgrade to Fibre (FTTC).  I also have a BT landline, which I plan to keep by switching it to a VOIP provider (Freely).

When I called PlusNet to ask about an FTTC upgrade, I was offered a 74Mb/s connection at £25.99/month with no landline.  This sounds like PlusNet Full Fibre (FTTP) which is a non-starter due to logistics and aesthetics at the premises.

Can anyone confirm if there really is a PlusNet Fibre (FTTC) option at 74Mb/s for £25.99, or alternatively point me at the real PlusNet FTTC options?

In case it's relevant, I already have an FTTC-compatible VDSL2 wireless modem/router from Netgear.

Thanks for any help.

[#2]

@symmetry 

Have a look at the following.

https://www.broadbandchecker.btwholesale.com/#/ADSL

Full Fibre shows up as WBC FTTP. Can't remember what FTTC is but I think it includes VDSL in the left hand column. The results will also tell you expected speeds.

If Full Fibre is there, look below the results window to see if the Exchange is labled a Priority Exchange.

Brian

Edit : Do nothing about the phone until your internet is sorted. You then have 30 days to port the number.

[#3]

Purely out of interest, @symmetry , what is the difference between an FTTC and an FTTP connection which is causing you so much concern?

[#4]

FTTP requires digging a channel from the street to the premises, and drilling a hole through the wall to run a fibre cable, which is impractical in this case. 

FTTC terminated the fibre at the nearest street cabinet, and uses existing copper wire onwards to the premises.

[#5]

Thanks for the helpful link.

In my case it shows this is not a priority FTTP exchange, but also shows VDSL as unavailable.  The only option marked as available is WBC FTTP.

Do you think this means when I ask PlusNet for FTTC options, they're just quoting me for an FTTP connection?

[#6]

@symmetry 

If the copper cable is run through a duct then the fibre will use this. They may also be able to use the existing copper entry point rather than drilling a new hole.

On the Checker I previously mentioned if WBC FTTP is listed below the results window there will be a narrative on the FTTP install. What does this say?

Brian

[#7]

@symmetry 

Does it show that a SOGEA connection is available?

Brian

[#8]

How does the copper come into your house. Are you on an overhead or underground feed? - the FTTP cable will follow the same route.

[#9]

Copper is all underground, but AIUI it still needs an ONC box for full fibre.  And really, I just wanted to know what FTTC upgrade options are available from PlusNet

In case it help, the full footnotes from the BT broadband checker site are as follows --

Our records show the following FTTP network service information for these premises:-Single Dwelling Unit Residential UG Pre built to curtilage Hard.

FTTP is available and a new ONT may be ordered.

The exchange is not in a current fibre priority programme

As a WLR withdrawal exchange, product restrictions apply

SOADSL is restricted at the exchange

For all ADSL and WBC Fibre to the Cabinet (VDSL or G.fast) services, the stable line rate will be determined during the first 10 days of service usage.

For all SOADSL services,the stable line rate will be determined during the first 10 days of service usage.

Actual speeds experienced by end users and quoted by CPs will be lower due to a number of factors within and external to BT's network, Communication Providers' networks and within customer premises.

If you decide to place an order for a WBC fibre product, an appointment may be required for an engineer to visit the end user's premises to supply the service

In order to be eligible for handback, downstream speed should be less than Downstream Handback Threshold values.

Ends.

ADSL, ADSL2+ and SOADSL availability: If shown at FTTP or SOGEA premises,ADSL, ADSL2+ and SOADSL are not available to order due to WLR Withdrawal stop sell rules. CPs should order FTTP or SOGEA. Copper products are only available by exception.

[#10]

Sorry for the typo -- ONC should read ONT

And the only mention of SOGEA is on the final line.

[#11]

The ONT is about the size of your current master socket, and could conceivably replace it.

[#12]

@symmetry  If the checker does not show VDSL / SOGEA availability your only upgrade path is full fibre (FTTP)  Have you ever checked for FTTC previously, some places have never had it?

[#13]

@symmetry 

My reading of the narrative is that your current copper cable is buried directly in the ground therefore digging would be required for Full Fibre.

Can you post a screen image of the results window, after hiding your details. This would tell us what's available and what isn't.

It's just possible FTTC isn't available.

Brian

[#14]

@symmetry 

The info is telling us that Full Fibre is available up to the edge of your property. From here there is the need for a 'hard dig' team to dig a trench, presumably over a drive to the property. If it's across a lawn it is designated, 'soft dig'.

I can't confirm it, but suspect that as standard practice Plusnet do not offer FTTC if FTTP is available. Your best bet is to ring the Customer Options Team on 0800 013 2632 and clarify just what they are prepared to offer. 

[#15]

@bmc 

This is the image. I hope it's legible, but any larger and it gets truncated on upload

BT Broadband Checker