Find Out More
About BDT!
Questions about BDT? Just check below to get answers to our most-commonly-asked questions, or call us at 1-800-599-1000. We'd love to hear from you!
- What type of Internet service do I need?
- I have your dial-up Internet, can I get BDT from you too?
- Do you offer high-speed Internet in a package with BDT?
- What if BDT doesn't work on my Internet connection?
- Should I cancel my current phone service?
- Do I get a local number if I don't already have one?
- What type of telephone do I need?
- Can I use the wiring/jacks already in my home?
- Do I have to buy the equipment?
- Is there a fee for converting to BDT, or setting up new service?
- Who installs my equipment?
- Does BDT provide Enhanced 911 service?
BDT requires an always-on high-speed connection of at least 256K down by 128K up, such as those provided via cable, wireless or DSL. Cable is recommended, being available in most areas. Most high-speed wireless connections are compatible, and DSL is compatible, though with DSL, the underlying phone line is typically required, so you often can't convert your phone service that includes DSL to BDT service. BDT does, however, make for a great second line over a DSL connection, or a first-line option if you can get "naked" DSL (DSL without attached phone service) in your area.
Unfortunately, BDT does not work over a dial-up connection. However, many people find that a high-speed Internet service with BDT is less costly than regular phone service with dial-up Internet. (See "How BDT saves you money") If you'd like to switch to high-speed Internet from another provider but keep your email address and other related services from Norlight, Inc., we do offer low-cost options for doing so.
While Norlight, Inc. does provide high-speed Internet service in some areas, it's typically provided via DSL, which requires the underlying telephone service as well, making it a less-than-perfect match with our BDT service. We do hope to be able to provide BDT service to many people in the ConnectGRADD service area in a bundle with their high-speed wireless Internet access.
Your initial BDT configuration comes with a new phone number, allowing you to hook up the service and test it to confirm call quality. If your Internet connection is not compatible, simply return the equipment and pay nothing. After the test period, you may convert your current phone number at any time to replace your old phone service, or you can keep your new BDT phone number if you choose.
Not if you want to keep your current phone number. Cancelling your current service in advance will cause your phone number to go back into the pool of available numbers, and we won't be able to put it on your BDT service. If you want to keep your current number with BDT, just call us after your successful test period and we'll do the rest.
Yes. Norlight, Inc. can provide new local phone numbers in all areas where we're currently offering service. With BDT, you don't have to get a number that's only local to a nearby (larger) city.
BDT does not require any special telephones. You can use a standard analog telephone, just as you're probably using already.
We recommend against it, and strongly suggest that you do not make changes to your existing home wiring to allow for this, as accidentally connecting the BDT adapter to a "hot" phone jack can destroy the adapter. For BDT, we recommend using the increasingly-common sets of cordless phones with a primary base station that connects to your telephone jack (in this case, the BDT adapter) and connects wirelessly to remote units that can be placed anywhere in your home.
Customers who meet credit requirements and choose a one-year service commitment get their equipment free of charge. Customers who do not meet credit requirements, or who do not want the one-year term, can get service by purchasing the equipment for only $59.95.
No. There are no charges for initiating BDT service or for converting your current phone number to BDT.
Your BDT adapter comes with illustrated instructions so you can install it yourself. Professional installation at an added cost is not required. If you have questions about your installation, our friendly support staff will assist you via telephone at no charge.
- I've heard about Enhanced 911 problems with similar services.
Does BDT provide Enhanced 911 service?
Norlight, Inc. understands the importance of 911 service and therefore only offers BDT in areas where Enhanced 911 service can be provided. Please remember that since BDT uses your Internet connection to carry your telephone traffic, your modem (or other Internet connection device) and BDT adapter must be powered at all times and your Internet connection must be "always-on" for BDT to work properly, including your Enhanced 911 service. For full Enhanced 911 details, see our Service Agreement.