Dial Up Modem Questions & Suggestions

[gtannenb]

Hi all. I neeed so experts to help me with my modems. I have 2 computers at home and both have 56K winmodems that get connections no greater than 33.6k. I thought that was the norm for my house. I had a relative bring over their computer so I could fix a software problem and when I connected to my internet provider that I always use using the same wires and phone line as my computer, it connected at over 40k. I never saw such high speeds at my house with my computers. I must say that the modems I have are the free after rebate ones from Staples or OfficeMax. I am not sure what the modem was in my relative's computer as it came with their HP computer they just purchased. My two computers are late model Dell's.

Now my questons. Does a winmodem connect at a slower speed than a regular modem? If I buy a better modem, can I expect a higher connection speed? If so, what type and brand modem do you suggest?

Thanks,

Glen

 

[redhatlinux]

If you buy a true hardware modem the speed may be better, but maybe not. The problem that you are having maybe driver related or compatibility issue with the modems at your ISP.
During initial connection, the two modems 'negotiate' a reliable speed based on a known transmission pattern, any slight issues and they will downspeed.

 

[lenjack]

There should be no differences in speeds between winmodems and hardware modems. It's a question of having the latest drivers and optimizing them. There is a wealth of information at [L=Textwww.modemsite.com].

 

[Paperlantern]

very true, but what is also true, is the 40K that you saw was only the initial connection speed. 9 times out of ten on any modem, the actual rate of transfer is much lower than what you see in the "connected at" box, since its never refreshed

 

[Lonyo]

I had a Winmodem in a Dell getting 37k, always, whatever line. On one line another (Elsa Microlink 56k External) got 47k or something, and on a different line, I get 45k with a Diamond Supra express internal.
You might want to try another modem, might be faster.