Joe -

AT&T DSL has been theorectically available in my area for a little over a year now, but I've been unable to get a hookup because:

1. It appears to require use of Yahoo as the ISP.

2. I can get no answers to any questions about equipment, expected service, costs and fees, except "The installer will explain it when he puts your system in."

I have asked specifically if a long-term contract is required. Same answer.

I have asked specifically if I can "see the contract." Same answer.

I have asked specifically if the rate quoted is an "introductory rate" and if it's good for a limited time. Same answer.

I have asked specifically if I'm required to purchase additional equipment, if there are equipment lease fees, or if there are options to use my existing equipment. Same answer.

I have asked specifically for a quote on "combination service" to provide DSL and voice accounts on the same line. Same answer - modified to add "the installer will take your order for any additional services you need."

A couple of "wireless" services, and cable have appeared recently. I've made less of an effort to ask about them, but the contacts I've attempted get exactly the same ambiguous - "sign the contract and we'll decide how much to charge you later." The cable guys quote a very nice low rate for internet connection, but refuse to tell me whether I'm required to have a cable TV subscription to get that rate. (Other sources confirm that I would be required to subscribe for TV to get the internet rate, but the cable guys won't tell me until after I sign a contract.)

I've almost concluded they are all trained by Microsoft. It would be nice to have the income to absorb "incidental costs" that might arise, but I can't afford to sign up to something without knowing what it's going to cost me; and I've been refused any and all information needed to make a choice.

So let us know how your installation turns out, and good luck with it.

John