8/3/2019 A Guide to Modems - Fs5
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A guide to modems
Why do I need a modem?
You need a modem in order to connect to the internet,
download emails and perform file transfers between
computers or anything that requires the sending and
receiving of data over ordinary telephone lines.
Modems may be installed in many devices such as
computers, video game consoles, and, recently, in
refrigerators and air conditioners.
What is a modem?
There are many types of modem, but they generally
come in two physical forms. Internal modems are
installed inside your computer or laptop. External
modems are produced in their own separate case and
connect to your computer with a lead.
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The most common form of modem, a 'standard
modem', is the type used to connect a customer to an
Internet Service Provider (ISP) to allow the customer
access to the internet. These are often referred to as
dial-up modems. These modems may be capable ofdata speeds of up
to 56 kilobits per second (kbit/s).
They are not able to be connected to higher speedservices like
Asynchronous Digital Subscriber Line
(ADSL). However, you should be aware that the
maximum speed available may be limited by other
factors, such as the type of computer you have, the
quality of the telephone lines to your house and other
items you have connected to telephone sockets withinyour
house.
In certain situations you may be able to access other
types of modems, which provide you with faster
access to the internet through their much higher data
rates. While these modems offer increasedperformance and 'always
on' functionality, costs
associated with installing and running these modems
may be considerably higher than those for a standard
modem. These other modems include ADSL, cable
and ISDN modems.
It is important when purchasing a modem that you
choose the correct type for the service you want to
connect to and that the modem has an A-Tick label on
the device, which indicates it is compliant with the
relevant Australian technical standards.
How does a modem work?
The word modem is a contraction of the two words
modulator and demodulator. A modem is used to
modulate the outgoing digital signals from a
computer or other digital devices to an analog
signal for transmission over your ordinary telephone
service. The modem will also demodulate the signals
coming in over the analog telephone service into adigital
service.
If the modem has an in-built speaker, you may hear
'scratchy' tones while dialling up for an internet
session. These tones are the analog signal or sounds
used by the modem to communicate over the internet.
Who can I contact if I am having trouble
with my modem?
If you are having difficulty with your modem you
should first contact your ISP. Many ISPs offer
comprehensive troubleshooting information online in
their 'support' or 'FAQ' sections of their website.
If you cannot connect to the internet, phone the ISP's
help desk. The help desk will assist you with a variety
of computer and connection problems. For moreinformation about
maximising the data rate of your
modem connection and other useful modem and
internet connection information, visit
www.iapselfhelp.com.
More information
More information on internet technology is available
on ACMAs website, at www.acma.gov.au (go to For
the public > Consumer and community advice).
Please note: this document is intended as a guide only and
should
not be relied on as legal advice or regarded as a substitute for
legal
advice in individual cases.
http://www.iapselfhelp.com/http://www.acma.gov.au/http://www.acma.gov.au/http://www.iapselfhelp.com/
