Wireless Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What are the major features of the new wireless service? 
A. MAJOR FEATURES:  The new service FVUTIL is rolling out is WIRELESS!  You will need NO telephone line!  There will be NO NEED to dial up!  Your service will be ON ALL THE TIME!  Initially, there will be 4 classes of Service:  Student, Residential Basic, Residential Premium, and Business.

Q. What is the service area? 
A. SERVICE AREA:  The initial Service Area for Fort Valley will be approximately 5-miles in radius from either Knoxville or Dan River water tanks. Coverage will vary depending upon tree coverage, terrain, distance from the tower, etc.  We expect that 80% of the homes and businesses within three miles will be able to get reception with either an indoor or outdoor antenna.  Between three and five miles, this percentage drops to around 50%.  There will even be circumstances, however, that customers up to eight miles away could possibly get the service with an outdoor high gain antenna above the tree line.

Q. How much does it cost? 
A. There are 4 plans to choose from and they include: College student, residential basic, residential premium, and business, as outlined on the RATES page

Q. How fast will my connection be?
A: Connection speed will vary depending upon how far you live from the water tank at the Utility Commission or from the water tank at the Industrial Park on 341 where the transmitting antenna is located, whether or not you have a low-gain or high-gain antenna, whether or not you live in a low spot, and whether or not your house or business is surrounded by a large number of trees. If you live in town, use a high-gain antenna, and have a relatively clear line of sight to the water tank, you will obtain the maximum connection speed.
 
Q: What hardware do I need to install the service? 
A: You need a wireless modem and antenna along with associated cables that are provided by the Utility Commission. In addition, your computer will need a standard PCI Network Card OR a USB Network Adapter. The Network Card costs about $24 and can be purchased from any local computer hardware store or online from a variety of sources, including Wal-Mart. We will have a small quantity in stock. Your PC may already have this installed. To determine, look at the back or side of your computer and see if you have an RJ45 Jack. This "jack" looks like a telephone line jack on steroids, i.e., it's larger. If you see this "large telephone-type jack," then you have a Network Adapter. If not, you will need to purchase one. 
 An alternative is to get a "USB/RJ45 Adapter." These are easier to install and we understand that they are available from Wall Mart as well for about the same price.

Q. Is there a cost for the modem?
A. Yes, you can buy it for $634 or rent it for $10 per month

Q: What if I need help with installation?
A: The modem, antenna, cables, and Network Card, or USB/RJ45 Adapter are fairly simple to install; however, if you do need help, instructions will be included with the modem package, along with contact information for several local contractors that have been trained to assist you. Please note, however, that there will be a fee for their services.

Q. I understand that two types of receiving antennas are available. What’s the difference?
A: The first is a standard, indoor, low-gain antenna that comes with the system. This antenna is used for those locations generally close, say within a mile or so, to the transmitting antenna on the water tank. The second is an outdoor antenna that will probably require help to install and costs extra. Again, local contractors can assist with the installation. The outdoor antenna should be used when signals are too weak to be detected by the standard low-gain antenna.

Q: What happens if I have trouble once the modem and antenna are installed?
A: Your package will contain a toll-free, 1-800 number to call for 24x7 assistance. This service will be able to help you with most problems and arrange for local support, if necessary.

Q. What are the antenna types?
A: There are several types available:
Indoor Antenna - Normally works within a mile to two miles from the transmitting tower, depending upon location in the home or business, and type of structure. Will NOT work in metal buildings or mobile homes.
Outdoor Antenna - Low Gain:  This costs extra but is required in some cases under two miles and in most cases over two miles from the transmitting antenna.
Outdoor Antenna - High Gain:  This also costs extra and is required for distant locations and in those areas beyond two miles that has heavy trees and foliage. Greater reception is obtained above the tree line.
Antenna Cabling - The standard system includes a ten-foot cable for the indoor antenna. If you require an outdoor antenna or if you prefer to have the Wireless Modem located more than six feet from your PC, then extra cabling will be required for additional cost.

Q. I understood that the new wireless system “talks” through trees, but I’m told that trees are a factor in my getting a good signal. What gives?
A: The new system does “talk” through trees; however, there are limitations, especially the farther out you live where the signal gets weaker. It’s always preferable to place your antenna where it has the best chance of “seeing” the transmitting antenna on the water tower. This can typically be accomplished with the low-gain internal antenna; however, you may require the external, high-gain antenna that will have to be mounted on a pole or existing TV antenna pole. In either case, additional cables may be required to connect the antennas.

Q: Does it matter where I place my antenna?
A: Yes, absolutely. If you have an internal antenna, it needs to be placed facing the water tower preferably in a window on that side of the house or business. If the signal is too weak to connect, an external high-gain antenna should be used.
 
Q: I live in a mobile home. Will my reception be okay?
A: Like any radio signal, the wireless system is indeed affected by metal; therefore, it is highly probable that if you live in a mobile home, you will either have to place the antenna in a window facing the water tank, or you will have to use an external antenna.

Q: I live four or five miles outside of town. Will I be able to get reception?
A: Again, depending on the factors mentioned previously, there’s a reasonable chance that you can get an acceptable signal if you use an external antenna and mount it above tree level facing the water tank.

Q: I live in heavy woods. Will I be able to receive a signal?
A: If you live close to the antenna on the water tank, yes, you will receive a signal. However, the farther away, the less chance you have. It is really hit or miss more than a few miles from the tank especially during the spring and summer. You can improve your chances, however, by using an external antenna and mounting it above tree level.

Q. What is the cost associated with putting up a pole for the antenna?
A. A FVUTIL representative or contractor will have to do an estimate and let you know the cost.It depends on the work needed ect.
 
Q. How do I sign up for the new service?
A. You can stop by the office and sign up for the service or you can fill out the form on the web or www.georgiaspeed.net
 
Q. What happens after that?
A. You will receive a call to arrange installation of the service.

Q. Who do I call for help
A. Call tech support at 1-888-789-7827