What is DSL?
DSL service gives you the ability to transmit high-speed data and voice traffic over the same telephone line. At speeds ranging from 256 Kilobits per second (Kbps) up to 1.5 Megabits per second (Mbps), you’ll be able to use your telephone while you’re connected to the Internet. Standard dial-up connections by comparison have speeds ranging from 14.4 Kbps to 56 Kbps.

In addition to your DSL service, you’ll need two other items to begin your high-speed Internet experience:

Internet Service Provider
Sopris Surfers offers the final component of your Internet connection. Sopris Surfers has a Fiber Optic connection directly to Qwest which delivers the fastest route out of the ROaring FOrk Valley to your favorite Internet hang out. Sopris Surfers provides services such as Internet access, e-mail, web page disk space, and firewall and security settings.

Qwest Choice DSL Modem
Much like a traditional modem, a Qwest Choice DSL modem connects your computer to the Internet over your telephone line. Through a special signal over your existing telephone line, Qwest Choice DSL allows you to surf the Internet and talk on the phone at the same time. To ensure compatibility, you'll need to use a DSL modem that supports Qwest Choice DSL. Qwest currently offers the Actiontec® 1524 Gateway.

Getting Sopris Surfers DSL is easy!

You can order DSL service online or by calling us at 970-963-7873.

What happens when my order is complete?

• Your telephone line will be upgraded for DSL service (you do not need to be present).
  A DSL modem kit will be sent to you.
• If you elect to install yourself: You will receive detailed, easy-to-follow installation instructions and access to a local number for installation and technical support.
• If you order on-site installation: A qualified Sopris Surfers technician will call to schedule your Qwest Choice DSL installation.
• Security System Information: If you are planning to install your DSL service on the same telephone line as your home or business alarm system, you will need a technician installation. Consult with your alarm system provider to ensure your system is functioning properly with DSL on the line.
• If you have two separate lines, we recommend installing your DSL on the line without your security system or PBX voice mail system. Typically DSL is installed on a fax line.

How does Sopris Surfers "qualify" my telephone line for DSL service?
There are technical limitations of DSL service that may affect your ability to receive DSL service on your chosen telephone line. We have a qualification process to test your individual telephone line for compatibility with Qwest Choice DSL service. Using customer records, we test your line for common characteristics known to interfere with DSL service.

Qwest Choice DSL is unavailable if:

Your telephone line is served by Digital Loop Carrier (DLC) equipment. A DLC is a multiplexing device in the telephone network used to provide economical voice service to high growth and suburban areas. We are working on solutions to the DLC limitation with vendors. Once a solution is developed, we'll post that information on this site.

The telephone wire between the Qwest Central Office and your premises is longer than approximately 15,000 feet. The speed at which the line can transmit data is limited by the length of the telephone wire. At distances over approximately 15,000 feet, DSL data transmission becomes unreliable. Please note that 15,000 feet means the length of the telephone wire, not the physical distance between your service location and the Qwest Central Office. Other factors such as temperature, wire gauge and condition of the wire may raise or lower the effective distance at which DSL service can be offered.

Testing reveals the presence of bridge taps, wire gauge changes or load coils on the line. These devices are used to condition lines for higher-quality voice signals. Unfortunately, they negatively impact DSL data transmission.

Upon receipt of your completed order form, we perform additional physical tests on your line, ensuring you a reliable, high-quality DSL connection.

Physical tests may reveal compatibility problems on your telephone line that were not identified by initial testing. In that case, you will be notified immediately that your line doesn't qualify for service, and the order will be cancelled. You will receive no charge for Qwest Choice DSL service or equipment.

What about installation?
Sopris Surfers has a self-install process to be user friendly for the most novice customer installing DSL equipment. With your modem, you'll receive an installation CD to walk you through the process step by step. If you need further help with your installation, Sopris Surfers is here to support you via the phone.

If you selected the technician-install option, a Sopris Surfers technician will install and configure your DSL equipment on the computer designated in your order form.

What are the costs of new DSL service?

• Recurring monthly charge for Qwest DSL service.* The amount varies with package ordered.
• One-time activation charge to cover configuration of DSL on your line.
• A recurring monthly charge and initial set-up fee (if applicable) for Internet service. Please see our pricing page directly for pricing.
• A recurring monthly rental charge for modem equipment.
• If you have a Sopris Surfers technician install your DSL service, a one-time installation fee applies. (There is no fee if you choose to install it yourself.)
• Applicable taxes, regulatory surcharges or other cost-recovery fees.

*Please note: The cost of your telephone line service and ISP service (unless included in a package) are separate from DSL costs.