- A MODEM (MOdulator/DEModulator) lets you exchange information through telephone lines.
- MODEM Speed - The speed that a MODEM can transmit information through telepone lines is the most important consideration when buying a MODEM. Faster MODEMS cost more, but will save you time and money in the long run. MODEMS speed is measured in bits per second (bps or baud). To make the most of the Internet, you should have at least a 28.8 bps MODEM, but a 56, 000 bps MODEM is recommended.
- External and Internal MODEMS
- External MODEM - An external MODEM is a small box that plugs into the back of a computer. An external MODEM takes up room on your desk, but you can use it with more than one computer ( virtually portable).
- Internal MODEM - An internal MODEM is a special computer expansion card that slides into a computer expansion card slot on the mother board of your computer. It is less expensive than the exaternl MODEM, but is more difficult to set up.
- FAX MODEMS - Most MODEMS manufactured now have FAX capabilities. A FAX MODEM lets your send FAXes to a FAX machine or to another computer.
|