When you think of using the Internet, does the word molasses come to mind?
If so, maybe it's time to invest in one of the greatest time saving
technologies that is ready for prime-time, and really quite affordable: a V.90
56K modem.
If you have an older modem, even a 56K modem that's just a year old, then
you should know that these units seldom connect at speeds beyond 33K. This is
because, prior to the adoption of the V.90 standard, there were two
incompatible connection protocols for 56K communications.
If your modem was not using the same standard as your ISP, you could not
connect at speeds faster than 33K.
Now however, just about every manufacture has 56K models that support the
newer V.90 standard.
It's worth noting that even with a new modem, you still probably won't
connect at 56K! Due to various limitations in existing phone lines (that range
from loose connections and older switching equipment, to FCC regulations) you
will likely connect at speeds no greater than 44K.
The good news is that surfing the web at 42K to 44K (the speeds you can
likely expect) is still an amazing improvement as compared to the older 28K-33K
models.
As they say, time is money. And, with the web, speed is the difference
between using the Internet as a productive business tool and avoiding it in
fear of working at a snail's pace.
Buying Tips:
If you previously bought a 56K modem that was based on the older X2 or
K-flex standards, then be sure to check with the manufacture's web site before
buying a replacement modem. Many manufactures offer "firmware" upgrades on
their sites, which can upgrade your existing modem to the V.90 standard.
Make absolutely sure that you only buy a modem from a reputable manufacture
that conforms to the V.90 standard. This is not the right product to buy from
a no-name company just to save a few dollars.
Check with your ISP to ensure that they offer V.90 connections from your
local dial-up access number this should be detailed on their web site.
If you're buying a new modem for a desktop computer, then be sure to look
for units that offer speakerphone capabilities. The option of having your
computer dial the phone for you, replace your answering machine and even serve
as a fax-on-demand server goes a long way toward increasing your productivity.
Finally, if you wonder whether or not your existing phone line can support
reliable 56K connection speeds, visit 3Com's web site for
a free line analysis.
See More: Technology Advice
Published: February 17, 1999
Use of this article without permission is a violation of federal copyright laws.
Editor's Note: This article reflects the opinions of Stephen Canale only and not necessarily the views of this or any other publication, organization or Website owner.
