All About Modems
The telephone line was built to transmit sound, not electronic data. To address this limitation given the growing need for data transfer, the modem was invented. It is a device that changes digital signals from the computer into specific frequencies that can travel over telephone and cable lines. The receiving model will then demodulate the frequencies. Modems are used to enable computers to communicate with networks.
History of Modems
A lot of developments had occurred since the 1970s when the 300 baud modem was introduced. This type of model connected computers to the bulletin board systems (BBS) and each bit was transmitted with a certain tone. The receiving device replies with its own frequencies so the modems can talk simultaneously. But while the 300 baud modem was sufficiently fast enough for text BBS, users were soon sharing graphics and applications.
How Do Modems Work?
•Trinity College Dublin — overview of modems and how it works
•Idea Finder — PC modems
The increasing demand for faster and heavier transfer enabled the development of various modems that spanned three decades. By 1998, the 56 kilobit modem maxed out its transmission speed. It was ten times faster compared to the 300 baud modem but the demand for faster transmission still exists. The Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) modem was the answer. It outweighs the benefits of the standard dial-up model because it does not tie up the telephone line. The ADSL model also provided an 'always on' connection.
Analog and Digital Modems
•Hello Direct — what is the difference between analog and digital devices?
•Great Ware — everything you need to know about analog and digital systems
Soon, another modem became popular, the Symmetric DSL modem. Some users need a lot of bandwidth that goes upstream and downstream. This modem used voice traffic lanes so a telephone connection is not possible when it is connected. Still another type uses TV wires instead of phone lines. This is the cable modem and it requires Internet service from cable television providers. Similar to the DSL modem, digital data is transferred on wires that use frequencies that translate it back into the digital data.
Cable vs. DSL Modems
•All About Cable Modems — what you need to know about cable TV systems and DSL modems
•What is My IP Address — choosing between cable and DSL
How to Set Up Modems in a Network
•Microsoft — set up a wired network
•Azinet — how to set up a network for small office
A variety of factors can influence your model speed. For example, the usage of your neighbors can determine how fast or slow your Internet connection is. This is because the same cable line connects to different subscribers and shares the same bandwidth. If a lot of people access the Internet at the same time, your modem speed (and theirs) will significantly decrease. Other factors that affect your modem speed include service glitches, computer spyware, and a mis-configured router. Sources that can help you speed up your modem include:
•Broadband Speed Checker — how to improve your broadband speed
•Comp Network — network speed tweaks
•Hub Pages — improve your network connection speed
The modem is truly a critical factor that enables technology to advance and be shared amongst internet users.
