Resolving Persistent NBN Dropouts and Slow Speeds

Overview

A client was experiencing daily dropouts and slow internet speeds despite multiple visits from NBN technicians and contractors. The ongoing connectivity issues had not been resolved, leaving the client frustrated with unreliable service. Our head technician, Jason, was called in to assess and fix the problem.

Problem Identification

Upon inspection, Jason discovered that the existing cabling was in poor condition. A critical issue was the exposed copper in the main insulation of one of the cables, which likely contributed to the frequent dropouts. This problem had been overlooked by previous technicians, leaving the root cause unaddressed. The faulty cabling, combined with outdated bridge taps, was undermining the stability and speed of the internet connection.

Solution Implementation

Step 1: Bypassing Bridge Taps

Jason decided to bypass all the existing bridge taps, which were adding noise to the line and destabilising the connection. To resolve the issue, he chose to run a new piece of 2-pair copper lead-in cable, which is reliable and suitable for this type of installation.

Step 2: Cabling Challenges and Installation

The installation was challenging due to the layout of the property. The location of the existing cables required Jason to work from an awkward position that was not easily accessible with standard ladders. Despite these difficulties, he carefully ran the new cable along the timber structures, securely clipping it in place to prevent future damage.

Step 3: Cable Separation and Cleanup

Jason began by separating the existing wiring cable from other cables and cleaning up the area. During this process, he identified additional exposed copper and poorly maintained connections, further highlighting the subpar work done previously. He removed the old, damaged cables and replaced them with new ones, ensuring proper insulation and connection integrity.

Step 4: Termination and Connection

Before repositioning the ladder, Jason proceeded with the termination of the new cable using squatties and his trusty 3M crimper. He connected the new 2-pair copper lead-in cable to the existing Telstra box, ensuring a stable and secure connection. The new cable was clipped, pulled through, and neatly routed under the house, ready for final connections.

Step 5: Final Connections and Testing

After securing all the new cabling, Jason connected the newly installed cable to the existing internal system. He then tested the connection to ensure that the dropouts and slow speeds were resolved. The client experienced a stable and improved internet connection immediately after the repair.

Results

• Eliminated Dropouts: By replacing the old, exposed cabling and bypassing unnecessary bridge taps, the frequent dropouts were completely resolved.
• Improved Internet Speeds: The new 2-pair copper lead-in cable significantly improved the client’s internet speeds, providing a more reliable connection.
• Increased Client Satisfaction: The client now enjoys a stable internet connection without the frustration of daily interruptions.

Conclusion

This case demonstrates the importance of thorough inspections and quality installations when dealing with NBN issues. Previous technicians failed to identify the damaged cables, leading to ongoing problems. By using high-quality materials and implementing proper installation techniques, Jason was able to provide a long-lasting solution, highlighting the value of expertise in resolving complex technical problems.

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