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DISCOUNT MODEMS BUYING GUIDE

In order for us to communicate with other computers or networks, a modem is required.  The most popular use is to connect to the Internet for information, send e-mail, online chat (instant messaging), etc.  These are some of the things that you should take note when buying a modem.

TYPES OF INTERNET CONNECTIONS

There are other types of Internet connection other than dial-up modem.  So, you need to first determine your type of usage.  If you are looking for vast information on the Internet, you would need a high-speed connection.  On the other hand, if you are just using the Internet for small tasks like checking your e-mails, a conventional dial-up modem will do.

Heres a comparison of the different types of Internet connections and their speed:  

Legend:

Kbps:  Kilo (thousand) bits per second
Mbps:  Mega (million) bits per second

Dial-up Modem

This is the cheapest and the oldest form of connection.  The fastest dial-up modem is 56k.  The older models, which are 14.4k and 33.6k, are not available in the market anymore.

ISDN

ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is a service provided by many telephone companies.  It uses special high-speed telephone lines.  It provides double the data transfer rate than a dial-up modem.  The cost of ISDN connection varies between countries, but is definitely less expensive than T-Carriers, DSL, and Cable connection.

It is available in almost all the urban and suburban areas in the world.  ISDN is used primarily in homes and small offices.

T-Carriers

T-Carriers also use special telephone lines providing high-speed Internet access.

DSL

DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) uses the same existing line.

Cable Modem

Cable modem is different from the rest.  It uses the same cable as your cable television to provide high-speed Internet connection.  However, not all cable companies support cable modems.  It is a cheaper alternative to ADSL and T-Carriers.  The best thing is, it does not require you to manually connect to your ISP (Internet Service Provider).  You are usually connected when you switch on your PC.

TYPES OF MODEMS

Next, you need to decide on which type of modem you would prefer.  The 3 types are external, internal, and wireless modem.  The most common one is internal modem.  The following table shows a comparison between the 3 types of conventional modem: