The Mythical Modem
The modem is probably the single piece of computer equipment that is most responsible for the emergence of what the Internet is today. Because, without the modem, home PC users would not be able to dial-in to their local service provider to access email and surf the Internet from the comfort of their own homes.
- What precisely does a modem do?
In short, a modem connects you to the Internet.
The word 'modem' itself is actually a acronym for the two words 'MODulator' and 'DEModulator'. Simply put, a modem is a translator. That is, it takes the digial signals coming from the computer and changes them into analog signals so that they could travel along telephone wires. Vice versa, it takes analog signals coming from another computer at the other end of the wire and translates that into digital signals so that your computer could understand it.
- What's the difference between modems?
Modems come in two basic types: internal and external. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. External modems are easier to install and replace. Because they have signal lights on them, one can see if information is still being transmitted or received. They also can be swithed off independently of the computer. They are a little more expensive than internal modems and require the purchase of an additional cable modem. Because they are external to the PC, they need an extra plug and power source in order to function. Internal modems are less expensive than external modems, do not require an additional power source and do not need additional cables to connect them to the PC. On the other hand, because they are internal, it is a somewhat more complicated process to install and configure them. Also, they do not have signal lights, so the user cannot see if data is being transmitted or received.
- What's with the need for speed?
Just as a car's speed is measured in Miles Per Hour (mph), a modem's speed is measured in Bits Per Second or bps. With modems, this is usually measured in the unit 'K', which stands for 1000. For example, 33.6K bps means 33,600 bits per second. So, the higher the number, the more bits the modem is capable of transmitting per second. Nowadays, the most common modem speed is 56K, or 56,000 bps. However, it must be noted that this is the speed that the modem is technologically capable of reaching, but cannot do so in actual practice. This is because of FCC regualtions and also because of the conditions that exist on telephone lines push this speed down. If you are buying a computer or a modem, be sure to look for a V.90 compatible modem. This is the international standard for 56K modems. Any other standard, such as x2 or K56 flex are older standards. Please be aware of this.
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Site last updated Jan 2, 1999