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When connecting to the Internet, the term "modem" will frequently arise, which becomes a little complicated if you don't actually know what a modem is. There are three types of modems; dial-up, ADSL and cable. Read on to find out what they are and what they are used for.
A modem is a device that connects computers to the Internet. Modems can be either internal (installed inside the computer system) or external, which is fitted by cable, USB device or a card that slots into an external port. You need a modem if you want to connect to the Internet, send and receive emails, download files, transfer files or send and receive data over the phone line.
Modems work by converting outgoing digital signals from your system to an analogue signal that is redirected back through an ordinary phone line for transmission.
Dial-up modems
The standard modem is a dial-up that connects the customer to their Internet service provider (ISP). If you have problems with your modem you should contact your ISP. Bigpond, Dodo and Optus are some of Australia's leading ISPs.
Standard dial-up modems have operational speeds of around 28.8 kilobits per second (kbit/s) and extend to speeds of 56 kbit/s. If you only have one telephone line you will not be able to be connected to the Internet and receive calls at the same time. Standard modems cannot be connected to higher speed services. There are other kinds of modems, which are more advanced, speedier than the standard dial-up and facilitate broadband connection (a service that has data rate transference of more than 200 kbit/s).
ADSL modems
ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) modems are called so because download and upload speeds are not identical; downloads are faster than uploads. ADSL modems are designed for high speed connectivity. There are several ADSL modems; ADSL 1, ADSL 2 and ADSL 2+. If you want to convert from ADSL 1 to ADSL 2 you will need to purchase a router. ADSL 2 and 2+ are faster than ADSL 1.
Cable modems
Cable modems are connected by a cable similar to those used for cable television. It is possible for cable modems to transmit at 10 megabits per second (mbit/s).
ISDN modems are quicker, which allows you to spend less time online and improve your browsing experience. ISDN is connected through ISDN lines or the cable used for cable TV in your area.
