The right modem
Short for modulator-demodulator, a modem
converts data (1s and 0s) to analog signals (sounds) modulation
and sends it over telephone lines. On the other end of the phone
line, a modem converts analog signals back to data demodulation.
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When a technology becomes an adopted standard, I
consider incorporating it into my systems about 1-1/2 years after
that time. It takes that long to get the "kinks" out of
it. Maybe it's time to consider upgrading your modem.
V.92 is the latest modem standard that was
agreed upon in June 2000. It includes the newest technology, is compatible with older systems.
V.92 enables three major new functions:
- Modem on Hold allows you to suspend a data call, answer an inbound voice call, then
re-establish the data call without ever losing the connection.
(Now you can get by with a single phone line - if you have
call waiting.)
- Quick Connect shortens the connect time on a
data call. The modem learns the handshake (the noisy part when
it first connects) of your ISP (Internet Service Provider) and
remembers it for future calls.
- V.PCM upstream increases upload speeds reaching 48,000
bps (bits per second). Older V.90 upstream speeds were limited
to 31,200 bps. This is ideal for sending large e-mails, spreadsheets, presentations
or photos, or uploading files.
To receive the full benefit of each of these features,
both the user’s modem and the ISP’s server equipment
need V.92 upgrades. Check with your ISP to see if they support
V.92 before upgrading.
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An external modem goes outside your PC, easily plugs into a jack on the back of your PC through a cable, and has useful status lights. An internal modem plugs into a PCI or ISA slot inside your PC, is harder to install, but usually costs less.
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The highest performance modems have a "Controller" on-board to process commands and to handle error correction and data compression. Modems without a Controller
(WinModems) shift all this processing to your PC's processor. This reduces computer performance, especially for on-line gaming and multimedia
applications.
On-board DSP?
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Most PCs ship with "soft modems" which load all
DSP (Digital Signal Processing) onto the PC. This can seriously affect the performance of your modem and any other applications running while you are online. If your PC had a modem installed when you bought it and you're not satisfied with its performance, you should seriously consider replacing the modem. All Zoom modems have an on-board DSP.
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Fax lets you send and receive faxes with your PC, and Voice Mail lets you use your PC as a telephone answering machine.
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Installation of modems are easy. Because external modem installation is so easy, it's not
covered here. Here's how to install an internal modem. Most
internal modems will use a PCI slot
(smaller white) on the motherboard rather than an ISA (larger
black).
Rid yourself of all static
electricity before touching your computer. Just touch
the metal frame (inside the case with the power cord plugged into
a grounded outlet), or some other metal piece of furniture. If possible,
don't work on a carpeted floor.
Some manufactures prefer that you install the software drivers
first, so make sure you read the documentation that came with your
modem before proceeding.
- Make sure the computer is turned off. Unplug it and disconnect it from the wall outlet.
- After locating the appropriate slot (PCI or ISA), remove existing expansion card metal slots
keeper. Keep the screw handy so you can use it to anchor the
modem to the case.
- Remove the modem from the wrapper. It is packaged in an
anti-static bag to protect it from static shock coming from
you!
- Slide the modem card into the slot (rocking it back &
forth gently). Be careful not to force it - you could damage
the motherboard!
- Screw the modem card into place, but don't put the cover on
the PC yet, as you may need to make
some adjustment before anchoring the drive into place.
- Plug the phone cable into the modem receptacle that is
listed as "line". The other receptacle is used only
if you want to use a voice line extending from the modem.
- Turn on your system with the case off in case you need to do anything else.
- Install the drivers on the discs that came with the modem.
(Most modems are plug and play.)
- If its working, you're done.
If not, double-check all your work before contacting tech support.
Is the card securely anchored in the slot? Is the phone
cable(s) plugged into the right receptacle? Is the software installed correctly?
Check to see if the modem is installed properly going to Start
| Setting | Control Panel | Modems | Properties | Diagnostics
and query the modem.
Should
you have problems, contact me.
