Broadband Advisor

Chilli Internet Solutions today increased both the monthly download limit and the connection speed on their iBurst wireless broadband services.

The new plans are giving a 350 per cent higher download limit compared to what was on offer previously. For example, the 512Kbps/256kbps plan had a data allowance total of 400MB, now it has been increased to 2GB.

Plans range from $29.95 per month with a total of 3GB data allowance at 512Kbps/256kbps, up to $199.95 with a 30GB data allowance at speeds up to 1Mbps/345kbps. Plans are shaped to 64Kbps once the maximum allowance is reached - however plans less than $44.95 are not shaped and are subject to charges of 10c/MB for additional data allowance.

Half the quota is for off-peak usage between the hours of 12pm and 6am. Uploads are also not counted toward the monthly total, something of a difference amongst wireless providers.

"We're one of few wireless broadband providers that only counts downloads in the usage limits," said Chilli Internet's marketing manager Jeremy Tang.

"Mobility is the future of Internet access for Australia; these new plans are price competitive with ADSL but without the headache of hefty monthly line rentals," he said in an official statement.

However, despite the lack of line rental fees, new customers will still need to buy a compatible wireless modem. The Chilli Internet Solutions USB modems are $249, notebook modems $249 and desktop modems are $299; if you are in a weak-signal area, external antennas are available for $129 and $249.

Chilli is also offering free activation for all new 12-month contract plans until September 30, a saving of $66.

It is advised to check their Web site for availability and coverage - the Chilli wireless service is available in most metropolitan areas in New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and Australian Capital Territory.