A dedicated copper pair from the MDF at the customer`s premises to a MUX, or similar, in the local exchange.

Alternate name for 3G services. (The transmission standard is WCDMA.)

A call to a `local` number (by definition, contained within the same area code or billing area), which is charged at a flat rate. Calls over the PSTN network are untimed local calls. (The introduction of ISDN services by Telstra allows for charging of local calls on those services.)

Network connection terminology used to represent a link to a higher part of a network.

A UPS is used as a backup supply of AC voltage. These discretionary supplies are most often used only for essential services. (DC battery supplies are commonly used in telephone systems.)

Short for Universal Serial Bus [connect the computer to external memory and peripherals], a USB is an external bus standard that allows the transfer of data at rates up to 12 Mbits per second and USB2 480Mbits per second. A USB port is used to connect peripheral devices, such as mice, printers and keyboards among others, to your computer.USB is an external interface standard, or connector, for communication between a computer and external peripherals and devices. USB is intended to replace existing serial ports, parallel ports, keyboard and monitor connectors and can be used with keyboards, mice, monitors, printers and removable hard drives. USB works at 1.5 and 12 Mbps (Megabits per second) with specific consideration for low cost peripherals. USB 2.0, sometimes referred to as `Hi-Speed USB`, is a much faster enhanced version - working at 480 Mbps.

The obligation under the Telecommunications Act 1999 to ensure that standard telephone services, payphones and prescribed carriage services are reasonably accessible to all Australians on an equitable basis, wherever they reside or carry on business.

A carrier or Carriage Service Provider responsible for fulfilling the Universal Service Obligation (USO).