JT RapidBusiness uses ADSL technology to transform a normal copper phone line into a high speed digital connection which can be shared by multiple users via 'Ethernet' connectivity. The technology works by sending a complex signal, which carries both normal telephony and high speed data traffic, over a single line. ADSL routers at each end of the line then "split" or filter the signal to provide a high speed data connection which can be shared between a network of computers and normal telephone service for making or receiving calls at the same time.

The new service, which is separate from the normal telephone service, essentially means much faster Internet access. Based on maximum available download speed of 1024kbps, it can be up to eighteen times faster than conventional dial up modems. The service is not free, but JT RapidBusiness carries a flat rate whereby 24 hour access is provided for a fixed monthly fee, so per minute call charges while users wait for dial-up connection to the Internet are dispensed with.

There is a one off connection fee of £350, then customers pay a flat rate monthly fee with the rate dependent on which of two speed options is chosen. Access at 512/256kbps costs £80 per month and access at 1024/384kbps costs £115 per month.

Jersey Telecoms says that the whole of the island will be covered by JT RapidBusiness and claims that local companies using it will gain a competitive advantage over their UK counterparts, many of whom will not have access to ADSL for several years.

A press release from the company said: 'JT RapidBusiness has been designed specifically for business users and has several special features to reflect this. A fixed IP address is provided which means subscribers have a permanent presence on the Internet, allowing them to host e-mail and web site servers on their JT RapidBusiness connection. The service is also connected at a much lower ratio than the 'single home user' version of JT Rapid (20:1 rather than 40:1). This means that fewer users are sharing a given amount of bandwidth which will help to ensure that bandwidth is available to JT RapidBusiness customers during peak hours'.

Bo Pinel, Sales and Marketing Director, commented: 'With the arrival of JT RapidBusiness, local companies now have access to the latest broadband technology at affordable prices. This new service further demonstrates our commitment to bringing leading edge telecommunications technology quickly to market and with island wide coverage, Jersey Telecoms is well ahead of networks in the UK and Europe in offering this service to all our customers.'