AT&T's U-verse Technology

AT&T's U-verse is a high-speed service for Internet, television and home telephone. U-verse technology combines computer network connections with fiber optics to provide fast, reliable digital services. Before subscribing to AT&T's U-verse service, assess your needs and understand what you're purchasing, so you will be satisfied with your decision.

Fiber Optics

U-verse service uses a different kind of technology from traditional cable or DSL. U-verse incorporates fiber optic technology. With fiber optics, data travels in light bursts through plastic or glass strands contained in a cable. This type of transmission offers enhanced picture and sound with minimal degradation in quality. The technology also allows you to use a single network connection to watch television, surf the Internet and chat on the phone at the same time.

Television

U-verse television provides access to standard-definition (SD) television channels, high-definition (HD) channels and video-on-demand services. AT&T U-verse television uses Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) technology. Essentially, video and audio are encoded into small packets and delivered in a single stream to your house via your Internet connection. A receiver connected to your television decodes the data. The technology allows viewers to record, store, and play back shows from up to four televisions in a single household.

Digital Telephone

U-verse digital telephone allows you to make and receive calls using a technology called Voice Over IP (VoIP). Like IPTV, VoIP relies on your Internet connection to transmit information in digital packets. By incorporating VoIP, U-verse provides subscribers with access to sophisticated digital features such as "locate me," "Do Not Disturb" and "U-verse messaging."

Internet

U-verse Internet offers you a choice of connection speeds through an AT&T wireless router designed specifically for U-verse Internet. Besides home Internet connectivity, U-verse subscribers also have access to AT&T's Wi-Fi network. This is convenient for individuals who travel frequently or who prefer to use Internet services at coffee shops, restaurants and bookstores.

Bundles

AT&T offers a variety of U-verse bundles that allow you to package television, Internet and voice services. Like all bundles, the more services to which you subscribe, the greater the discount per service. However, if you don't use a particular service, such as home telephone, a bundle with this service included may cost more than separately purchasing the desired services. Decide what you are seeking, and compare options prior to selecting U-verse services.

Installation

To acquire U-verse service, contact AT&T to set up a date and time for a technician to visit your residence and set up your service. You should receive your first bill within a month of service activation. Your first month's bill may be higher than future bills, so budget accordingly. Once U-verse is installed, you can set up a U-verse online account that provides you with up to 10 email addresses and gives you access to a variety of features, including payment management, service settings and product technical support.

References

Resources

AT&T: Check U-verse Availability

About the Author

Starr Kang began writing professionally in 2002. Her articles have been published in "Nightlife!" magazine. She has penned interviews and press releases for the Arizona Screenwriters Association and has written scripts for independent filmmakers. Kang holds a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies emphasizing creative writing and digital video production from Arizona State University.

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