A year on from its initial launch, the Telstra Go mobile network extender is proving popular as rural and regional customers search for an improved signal.
Speaking from the Primex field days in Casino, Telstra regional general manager Mike Marom said there had been significant interest from customers looking to extend their mobile coverage, particularly when out and about on farm.
"We invest a lot in our mobile network and we are very proud we have spent 15 per cent of our costs on 10pc of the population," he said.
"However there are still areas that are challenging for connectivity.
"One of the solutions is to participate in programs such as the Black Spot program, where there is an added incentive to provide coverage in areas that normally would be economical to do so.
"The other is the development of good network extension devices, they are basically amplifiers where there is some existing service."
Mr Marrom said network extenders, which often used a combination of an extender and an external aerial to boost signal, were not only for home use, they could also be fitted to vehicles.
"The new solution for the car can also be used in quad bikes and tractors," he said.
"It effectively creates a hotspot where up to five devices can connect and get a better signal."
Mr Marrom said legal network extenders, such as the Telstra Go, did not interfere with other signals and connectivity nearby.
"One of the things we find is a real problem in regional areas is people buying cheap illegal repeaters from overseas, what they typically do is pull a lot of signal out of areas causing issues for neighbours and other devices," he said.
Mr Marom said it was important for businesses like Telstra to attend field days in regional areas so people could become aware of new technology offerings.
"They may not have a Telstra store around the corner," he said.
"We have a very strong commitment to regional and remote Australia, that is something ingrained in our heritage.
"We see our participation in these field days as an opportunity to engage with our current customers and answer their questions, and also provide them with information around new technologies.
"Field days also allow us to interact with potential new customers as well as members of organisations such as NSW farmers, the Country Women's Association and other user groups."