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| Screenshot showing Speedtest.net results using a laptop in the library at Sawyer Hall and the wireless internet connection with the new Broadband Fiber. Compare this to the speed we got with the DSL connection: 2.0 Mbps download and 0.7 Mbps upload. 5 times faster! Bring your smartphones, tablets, and laptops to Sawyer Hall or the front porch or parking area near the building and enjoy the high-speed wireless access. |
You may know that Sawyer Hall (Heath's Town Hall) is a Community Anchor Institution (CAI) as part of the new fiber optic network deployed in western Massachusetts through the MassBroadband 123 network project. CAIs are municipal buildings and part of the ‘middle mile network’ bringing fiber access into the town. Sawyer Hall and the Heath School were considered eligible CAIs in Heath.
As of May 30, 2014, Sawyer Hall internet service was switched from DSL to the high speed fiber network. Other than faster speed, nothing will seem different and the wireless service will be available as always.
As soon as they get the okay from Axia NGN Network, the network operator, Crocker Communications, Inc. will install new VoIP (voice over internet) telephones in Sawyer Hall. With the exception of some lines, our service will no longer be handled by Verizon. Instead, our service will be provided by Crocker Communications, Inc.
The fiber optic network is not yet available to residents in Heath. WiredWest continues to work with the state in trying to find funding for residential service.
If you have any questions, do not hesitate to call. Thank you.
Kara M. Leistyna
Town Coordinator
Town of Heath
Note from the Library Director: we expect the Library's desktop computers be connected to the Broadband Fiber this summer or fall through our Internet connection provided by C/W MARS. Stay tuned for updates!