If you are using a dial-up connection to access the internet, call charges can mount up, so, if you are a regular internet user, you may find unmetered access more cost-effective. Rather than paying local (0845) rates for each call, you pay a fixed amount per month by direct debit and then all your internet calls are to a freephone number.
Packages from just £8.99 + VAT per month
Our unmetered packages are in association with EntaCall, a well-established telecoms company with the backing you need to be satisfied that the service they provide is first class.
What do I get ? Internet access with a freephone access number in exchange for a fixed monthly direct debit payment. Different packages give you a different number of hours per month (which you are not allowed to exceed), different times of the day or week you can connect, and different contention rations (see below). You can sign-up online right now with your credit card by clicking on the link above (the first monthly payment is by credit card, the others by monthly Direct Debit).
What is a contention ratio ? The network is sized so that a certain number of users access the same modem access dial-up point. The ratio of users to ports is known as the contention ratio. As an example, a 10:1 contention ratio means there are ten times more users than ports. The system works by simple statistics - not everyone is accessing the internet at the same time, so there's usually a port available for you. The higher the contention ratio, the more likely it is that you will occassionally be unable to connect due to all ports being busy.
What is the cutoff period ? Two hours for most packages. You will automatically be disconnected from the internet after 2 hours - this is to make it fair for all users and to prevent 'hogging' of ports (and also to make sure that you do not accidently exceed the number of hours per month allowed by your package). Don't worry though, you can set-up your PC to automatically connect you again straight away if you still need the connection, so you'll hardly notice this restriction under normal use.
When would I need a 1:1 contention ratio ? A 1:1 contention ratio means that there is a port dedicated solely for your use. This can be important if, for example, you need to ensure that you always have a port available for dial-up, but the more usual approach of ADSL is not available in your area.
What is the procedure ? Simple - just apply on-line, giving your bank details for direct debit, agreeing to the terms and conditions and making your initial payment by credit card. Your account will be set-up straight away and you will be given details on how to set-up your PC for internet access. During the sign-up process, you will be asked to download a direct debit form which you should print out, sign and return to Enta within 7 days.
What if I keep going over the number of hours allowed by my package ? You will be contacted to see if you wish to upgrade to an alternative package allowing more connection hours.
01494 443777
