Preparing for the

nbn™ broadband
access network
nbn™ Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC)
Thanks for switching
to the nbn™ broadband
access network
You’re only a few steps from connecting to Australia’s
new broadband network.
This guide will provide you with useful information
on your upcoming installation, and help to answer
any questions you may have.

© 2019 nbn co ltd 2

Things to know before A standard installation of nbn™ HFC setup

installation day
Installation without pay TV service

Outside your premises Coaxial cable

When you contacted your phone and internet provider to connect to POWER

DOWNSTREAM
To your own or your
provider’s modem*
Coaxial wall
the nbn™ access network, they would have arranged an installation time
UPSTREAM

ONLINE
and then to your
outlet home phone (via VoIP)
Power adaptor
for an nbn™ approved technician to visit your home or business to install CM8200

the necessary equipment. Power

outlet
nbn™ connection box

Your nbn™ approved technician should call you on the business day
before your scheduled installation to confirm the appointment time. Installation with existing pay TV or cable internet service
To change this time, contact your phone and internet provider.
Outside your premises SHORT coaxial cable Coaxial cable

What to expect from installation To your pay TV

OUT OUT
IN
A free standard installation^ involves an nbn™ approved technician:
Coaxial wall
1. C
 onnecting a Hybrid Fibre Coaxial (HFC) cable from your street to an nbn™ utility box installed outlet Splitter POWER
To your own or your
provider’s modem
DOWNSTREAM

on the outside of your premises (also known as a Premises Connection Device). LONG UPSTREAM

and then to your

coaxial cable
ONLINE

home phone (via VoIP)

2. A
 ccessing the HFC wall outlet (inside your premises) that connects to the nbn™ utility box. Power
They will then connect your nbn™ connection box to your HFC wall outlet using a coaxial fly lead.
CM8200

outlet

If you don’t have a compatible HFC wall outlet, an nbn™ approved technician may install a new Power adaptor nbn connection box
™

wall outlet (the connecting cable must run 40m or less from the nbn™ utility box on your
premises to the new wall outlet). nbn™ connections Service or equipment provider connections

3. Installing a splitter to allow both the pay TV the nbn access network to run from the one
™

wall outlet. Important: The above equipment is the property of nbn and should not be removed from the premises
4. T
 esting the connection to make sure your nbn connection box and the existing cabling
™ where it’s installed, even if you move.
are working. *Wi-Fi enabled gateway.

Note: If any additional internal wiring or cabling needs to be installed, this must be arranged
directly with a registered cabler (charges may apply).
What’s supplied in your installation?

Questions you should consider:

• Will you need extra wiring or cabling • Will you be considering smart kitchen POWER

DOWNSTREAM

for a phone connection in your study or in-home/business appliances in UPSTREAM

ONLINE

or home office? the future that might require fixed or

• Do you have a medical alarm? Wi-Fi internet access?
CM8200

• Do you have a security alarm that You should discuss any of the above
will need special wiring or cabling requirements with your phone, internet
or alarm provider. nbn™ utility box nbn™ connection box Coaxial cable
(e.g. Mode 3 phone cabling)?
To connect your wall outlet to
your nbn™ connection box

^For more information on what’s included in a standard installation, visit nbn.com.au/hfc or call 1800 687 626. External cabling from the street to your nbn™ utility box and internal cabling up to your wall outlet are
also included.

© 2019 nbn co ltd 3

On the day What if I can’t be there for my installation?
If you can’t attend your installation appointment, you can either reschedule it with your phone and

of installation
internet provider, or ask someone you trust who is over 18 to give access to all areas of your property.
Remember, they’ll need to make decisions about the installation on your behalf, so they must be there
for the whole appointment.

How long does installation take?

When your nbn™ approved technician arrives, you can ask to see
If your property already has an HFC cable connected to an nbn™ utility box outside, a standard
their ID before giving them access to your premises. installation will normally take up to two hours. If not, then a complex installation could take between
four and eight hours.
They’ll then discuss with you where the nbn™ supplied equipment
How much does the installation cost?
is going to be installed.
A standard installation of nbn™ supplied equipment is currently free of charge. This includes connecting
an HFC cable from your street to the nbn™ utility box outside your premises, then inside to the nbn™
connection box. But remember to ask your phone and internet provider if they have any other fees.
Things to keep in mind What if installation can’t be completed?
• If the HFC cable has not been connected from your street to the outside of your property, your technician If your nbn™ approved technician is unable to complete your installation on the day, nbn will work with
might need to dig a small trench or, if it’s coming from overhead, clear a small amount of vegetation. your phone and internet provider to arrange a new appointment.
• Some equipment locations might not be possible due to safety or other considerations, such as the
location of existing telecommunications infrastructure and pay TV equipment.
Where your nbn™ supplied equipment will be installed
• You must advise your nbn™ approved technician of any safety issues you are aware of on your property,
like known or suspected asbestos or asbestos-containing material, or any recent pest treatments. Your technician will discuss with you the best location for your nbn™ supplied equipment.

• You must advise your nbn™ approved technician of any heritage requirements or restrictions relevant Cable wall outlet
to your property. If you don’t have a compatible wall outlet installed in your !
premises, or have a compatible one that you’d like moved,
• Phone and data cables cannot be extended outside or between buildings, as they are susceptible Please note: The nbn™ supplied
your technician can install one new nbn™ wall outlet on the
to lightning and are a potential hazard. equipment should only be
day of installation. Remember, it must be in a location where
installed in a location that
• Your nbn™ approved technician may need to turn off your power for a short time. However, they’ll discuss this a connecting cable can be run 40m or less from the nbn™ utility
you are comfortable with. If
with you beforehand to make sure it won’t impact any safety-critical equipment, such as medical alarms. box outside.
your preferred locations are
nbn™ connection box unsuitable, your nbn™ approved

! When choosing a location for your nbn™ connection box, keep in

mind that it should be:
technician must explain this to
you and help you choose an
Asbestos-containing material alternative.
• Near a 240V power outlet • In the same room as your
Asbestos-containing material may be identified during the installation process. In some cases, (using a power board is not landline phone. If you are not satisfied with
your nbn™ approved technician may suspect and/or assume that asbestos-containing material recommended). where or how your box is being
• Somewhere that allows you to
is present because of the age of the building. Where asbestos-containing material is identified installed, please call your phone
• In a cool, dry, ventilated area easily check its indicator lights.
or assumed to be present in a property, your technician will consider options to avoid and internet provider before
(nbn™ supplied equipment
disturbing that material or area of the property, or will otherwise use accepted work practices • In the same building as the signing off on the work.
cannot be installed in a damp
to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the safety of themselves and the occupants of main electric meter box or If you are a tenant, your
or wet area, such as a kitchen,
the property. distribution board (i.e. not
bathroom, laundry or under a landlord will need to provide
in a detached garage or
window that opens). authorisation to install a new
outhouse).
wall outlet.
• Away from busy areas where it
may be knocked or damaged.

© 2019 nbn co ltd 4

What to do after installation
When your nbn™ approved technician has finished installing the nbn™ supplied equipment, you’ll need
Connectivity options
to connect your provider’s (or your own) modem to the nbn™ connection box using the Ethernet
cable provided with the modem.

Wireless network and Ethernet Cable TV or internet

With your provider’s (or your own) modem, you If you have an existing pay TV or cable internet
can create a wireless network in your home or service that is connected to the same wall outlet
business. If the Wi-Fi signal isn’t strong enough as your nbn™ connection box, a splitter will be
UNI-D1

to reach other rooms, you can use powerline installed by your nbn™ approved technician to
networking adaptors, which plug into your power allow both services to run from one wall outlet.
points and use existing wiring. Alternatively,
you can have Ethernet cables installed between
of nbn
Property t remove
Please
do no
rooms (charges may apply).
Reset

Smart TV and appliances

Step 1 Step 2 If you watch catch-up TV or streaming services
(such as Netflix), or use internet-connected
Plug one end of the ethernet cable into Plug the other end into the correct port on
Phone appliances (such as automated lighting or a
the yellow panel labelled ‘UNI-D1’ your modem (usually labelled ‘WAN’, ‘internet’
You’ll need to switch to a Voice over Internet smart kitchen), discuss your needs with your
on the nbn™ connection box. or ‘nbn’).
Protocol (VoIP)-compatible phone if you phone and internet provider.
currently use a landline. Check this with your
This will allow you to connect your computers and other devices to the internet via the
phone and internet provider and let them know
nbn™ access network.
where you plan to use it, as you may need extra
wiring or cabling (charges may apply).
For more information on connecting your modem, refer to the instructions supplied by
Security alarm
your phone and internet provider.
If you have a security alarm, discuss your needs
Your service over the nbn™ access network is the responsibility of your phone and internet provider. with your phone and internet provider, as you
Additional cables and equipment, such as your modem are the responsibility and property of you may need additional wiring or cabling installed
or your provider. This includes any internal wiring or cabling required for additional internal phone or (charges may apply). Please also refer to the
internet outlets within your home or business. important information on page 7.

Modem compatibility
If you already have a wireless modem, your phone and internet provider can let you
know if it will work over the nbn™ access network. In most cases, your phone and
internet provider will need to supply you with a new modem.

© 2019 nbn co ltd 5

Some tips to help get
the most out of your
nbn™ experience
When you connect to the nbn™ access network, consider:

Airflow Devices
To help ensure your nbn™ connection box Where possible, connect devices that
works best, place it vertically with 10cm of require large amounts of data (such as
space on each side and no objects covering gaming consoles or streaming devices)
it or limiting airflow. directly via an Ethernet cable.

Modem location Modem cabling

Place your modem in a raised, central area. Keep Connect to your modem using the
it clear of solid or brick walls and furniture like the yellow sockets at the back of your
TV, and don’t store it in a cupboard. nbn™ connection box.

Phone location
Consider where you’d like to keep your
nbn™ compatible phone when you choose a
spot for your modem, as your phone will need
to connect directly to it.

For some more tips to help improve your

in-home setup, visit nbn.com.au/optimisation

© 2019 nbn co ltd 6

Important information on
equipment compatibility
To organise in-premises wiring changes
Call your phone and internet provider and ask: Contact a registered cabler about
1. If they can arrange in-premises wiring connecting your telephone wall sockets to
or cabling changes. OR your phone service over the nbn™ access
network (search online for ‘phones &
2. What the cost will be.
Connecting to the nbn™ access network may affect the following systems – installation & maintenance’).

equipment in your home or business*:

Monitored medical Monitored security alarms* Fire indicator panels*

alarms, auto-diallers or Call your security alarm provider If you have a fire indicator panel
emergency call buttons* to find out if your equipment in your premises, call your fire
Before you connect to the will work over the nbn™ access indicator panel provider to
nbn™ access network, contact network. If necessary, they can find out if it will work over
your medical alarm provider advise you on what alternative the nbn™ access network
and ask whether your monitored solutions are available. before connecting.
medical alarm, auto-dialler or
It’s also important that you
emergency call button will work
register your equipment online
over the nbn™ access network,
at nbn.com.au/fireandlift or by
or whether you’ll need to find
calling 1800 227 300. This helps
an alternative solution. EFTPOS terminals* nbn identify homes or businesses
It’s also important that you Call your EFTPOS provider where support may be needed
register your equipment online to find out if your equipment to minimise disruption.
at nbn.com.au/medicalregister will work over the nbn™ access
or by calling 1800 227 300. network. Your equipment
This helps nbn identify homes or provider (such as the bank
businesses where support may that provides your EFTPOS
be needed to minimise terminal) can advise whether Priority Assistance
a break in service. it will work over the nbn™ access
For information on Priority
network and, if necessary, what
Assistance services:
alternative solutions are available.
1. Call your phone and internet
provider.

Phones* 2. Tell them you have a Priority

Assistance service and that
Your current phone should work
Fax machines and you need the same level of
over a fixed line service with the
TTY equipment* service over the nbn™ access
nbn™ access network unless it is
network.
a rotary dial or pulse dial based Please check with your phone
phone. If your phone has an old provider whether your fax and Talk to your phone and internet
connector plug, it may need TTY equipment is supported on provider to find out whether your
a converter or a new cable. their phone service over the existing devices are compatible
Your phone provider will be nbn™ access network. with the nbn™ access network.
*The rollout of the nbn™ broadband access network will involve new technologies, and some existing devices (including
able to confirm this. They will be able to suggest a many medical alarms, auto-diallers and emergency call buttons) may not be compatible with these at all times. You should
solution to suit your situation. contact your device provider to find out if your alarm or other device will work when connected to the nbn™ broadband access
network and what alternative solutions are available. For more information, visit nbn.com.au/compatibility

© 2019 nbn co ltd 7

Common questions
Can I run everything on a wireless Will there be any interruption to my Will my medical, security or fire alarm
(Wi-Fi) network? existing landline phone and internet work over the nbn™ access network?
You can run most devices over a Wi-Fi network. services? You will need to call your equipment provider/ Any other questions?
But if you find Wi-Fi limiting, you may want It depends on the services you currently use. manufacturer to check that your equipment will If you have any questions about
to try connecting your devices via powerline If you have pay TV, or other cable internet services, work over the nbn™ access network, or whether your nbn™ HFC connection or the
networking adaptors (which plug into your there may be a slight interruption to your services you’ll need to find an alternative solution. nbn™ access network, contact
power points and use existing wiring) or an during the installation of the nbn™ supplied You should also register your safety-critical your phone and internet provider.
Ethernet cable. equipment on the exterior of your property. If your equipment with nbn by calling 1800 227 300
This includes:
current service is delivered via ADSL, installation or visiting nbn.com.au/compatibility *
of nbn™ supplied equipment on the exterior of your • Any additional equipment,
Do I need to install any cables and
property should not interrupt your services. Your such as a modem
outlets? What will happen to my services
nbn™ approved technician should advise you of any
If you are switching from an existing broadband in a power blackout? • Any additional internal wiring
outages beforehand.
service, you are unlikely to need any additional Equipment connected over the nbn™ access and cabling
cabling. However, you may find you prefer to network will not work during a power blackout. • Any additional wall outlets
have wired connections for things like your What happens to the nbn™ equipment if Consider having an alternative form of
I move? • Network outages
smart TV or desktop computer. If so, you communication handy (such as a charged
can arrange for a registered cabler to install nbn supplied equipment remains the property of
™
mobile phone). If you have safety-critical • Internet speed queries
additional network points (charges may apply). nbn. If you move premises, this equipment must equipment (e.g. a medical alarm, monitored fire • Wi-Fi signal queries.
remain at the premises of installation, and won’t alarm or lift emergency phone), speak to your
work at any other location. Speak to your phone equipment provider about alternative solutions.
Do I need to get a separate supplier and internet provider when you move to switch
for internal wiring or cabling? your phone and internet services to your
Beyond your nbn™ connection box, your new address. What if the nbn™ approved technician
nbn™ approved technician won’t carry out internal damages my property?
wiring or permanent cabling through wall, floor or Your technician has an obligation to take
ceiling cavities. This must be done by a registered I’ve moved to a house that already has appropriate care on your property during
cabler. Your phone and internet provider may be an nbn™ connection box - how do I get your installation; however, in the unlikely event
able to recommend a registered cabler in your it working? any damage is caused, you can call nbn on
area, or you can search online for ‘telephones & To connect to the nbn™ access network via your
1800 687 626.
systems – installation & maintenance’. nbn™ connection box, contact your phone and
internet provider and order an nbn™ powered plan.

*The rollout of the nbn™ broadband access network will involve new technologies, and some existing equipment
(including many medical alarms, auto-diallers and emergency call buttons) may not be compatible with these at all times.
You should contact your equipment provider to find out if your alarm or other equipment will work when connected to
the nbn™ broadband access network and what alternative solutions are available. For more information,
visit nbn.com.au/compatibility

© 2019 nbn co ltd 8

Your installation day checklist

Installation appointment
I’ve arranged for myself (or an authorised representative over 18) to be there for the whole appointment.

Appointment length
I understand that a standard installation appointment might take up to two hours.

S
 afety
I’ve considered any safety issues associated with the location of my nbn™ supplied equipment.

E
 quipment check*
I’ve checked with my equipment provider/s and phone and internet provider that any equipment
I rely on, such as medical and security alarms, will work over the nbn™ access network.

Safety registration*
I’ve registered any medical and security alarms with nbn by visiting nbn.com.au/compatibility
or by calling 1800 227 300.

Landlord consent
I have my landlord’s consent for the installation and any new wall outlet(s) (if required).

My in-home setup
I’ve considered my current internet and phone setup, and understand what needs to change.

For help and support

Contact your phone and internet
provider or visit nbn.com.au

*The rollout of the nbn™ broadband access network will involve new technologies, and some existing equipment (including many medical alarms, auto-diallers and emergency call buttons) may not be compatible with these at all times. You should contact your
equipment provider to find out if your alarm or other equipment will work when connected to the nbn™ broadband access network and what alternative solutions are available. For more information, visit nbn.com.au/compatibility
Copyright: This document is subject to copyright and must not be used except as permitted below or under the Copyright Act 1968 (CTH). You must not reproduce or publish this document in whole or in part for commercial gain without prior written consent of
nbn co ltd. You must not reproduce or publish this document in whole or in part for educational or non-commercial purposes.
Disclaimer: This document provides general information about the technical requirements for connecting to the nbn™ access network and is correct as at August 2019. Technical connection requirements may change due to factors such as legislative and regulatory
requirements as well as advances in technologies. For any queries about your particular circumstances or requirements, please consult your phone and internet provider or other supplier.
© 2019 nbn co ltd. ‘nbn’ and the Aurora device are trade marks of nbn co ltd | ABN 86 136 533 741. 1930188_B_H_O