What is it?
A modem, or modulator-demodulator, is a device that transmits data from your computer through telephone lines. A standard analog modem converts computer information, which is stored digitally, into analog waves so that you can send and receive electronic messages, files, and mail from every corner of the Earth. In addition, almost any modem today can also function as a fax machine, which is highly beneficial for both home and office use. 

Why would I need it?
You need a modem to get by in this fast-paced world, whether it is to send and receive email, surf the Internet, check your stocks, shop for gifts, or send faxes. While a 28.8K or 33.6K modem is sufficient for minor data transmissions, a 56K modem, the fastest available today, will help you to enjoy the Internet in the way it was intended. By upgrading to a 56K modem, you will benefit from faster connections, downloads, and purchases, which translates into less time wasted and more money saved. Furthermore, the current V.90 communication standard for 56K modems ensures compatibility with virtually every Internet Service Provider (ISP), so look for the newer V.90 as opposed to the x2 or Kflex standards. 

How do I install and use it?
Before adding any component to your computer, carefully review the included installation instructions, power down your system, and disconnect any peripheral devices. 

External modems connect quickly and easily to desktop PCs via an RS-232 serial COM port or a USB port, which will be located on the back of your computer. After you plug the cable into the appropriate port, restart your computer. Windows 95/98 should automatically recognize your new modem. 

While some notebook computers include a built-in modem, others require a PC Card modem, which slips into the PCMCIA slot. The included software will guide you through the installation, and the included RJ-11 phone card will connect to a standard phone line. 

Internal modems require more installation for your desktop PC. First, remove the case with a demagnetized screwdriver and ground yourself by touching the metal frame of the computer before you reach for any internal components. You should always take this precaution to protect yourself, as well as your computer and modem, from electro-static discharge (ESD). Once you are sure of the contact, you can insert the internal component by gently sliding it into its appropriate slot. It should insert fairly easily, so never force the card into the slot. 

After replacing the case and tightening the screws, restart your computer. Windows 95/98 should automatically recognize your new modem. 

How do I go about buying one?
You must first determine if you want an external or internal modem, and then the type of interface. While external modems are easy to install and allow you to transport the drive between two or more computers, internal modems are a little cheaper. If you have a desktop PC, you have two external and two internal interface options, while notebook computer users can only connect through a PCMCIA interface. 

Interface:The interface is the connection between your modem and computer. Your modem uses this link to send and receive data.

External modems use Serial Port or USB Port: 

Serial Port:Serial ports  are the most common type of interface for external modems and are available on just about any computer. Simply connect the modem's serial cable to the serial port in the back of your computer and you're ready to begin. Serial ports are not very fast, but the connection is ample for a modem.

USB Port:Newer and increasingly popular, the Universal Serial Bus (USB) allows you to attach all USB-compatible devices with a single, standardized connection. Not only does USB eliminate the need to mix and match connectors, but also operates faster than previous technologies. USB permits hot swapping, which means that you can add and remove devices without having to restart your system. Just plug a USB device into a USB port or hub and you're ready to use your new modem.

Internal modems use a PCI or ISA interface: 

PCI:These slots offer the advantage of easy Plug and Play installation. They also operate at faster speeds than ISA slots and use less of your system's processing resources, which is especially relevant if you have a 266MHz or slower system. The PCI slot's speed, however, offers little advantage to a modem.

ISA:The speed of an ISA slot is slower than a PCI, but it is sufficient for a modem. Installation might be a bit more complicated than a PCI modem since ISA is generally not true Plug and Play.

Speed
Expressed in Kbps (kilobits per second), or "K" for short, the modem speed indicates the rate at which data is transmitted from one computer to another. A faster modem decreases time spent waiting for Web pages to load. 56K modems, the fastest available today, actually achieve a top speed of 53,000bps, or 53K, due to FCC restrictions on phone line voltage. 56K modems are more expensive than 33.6K or 28.8K modems, but they are becoming increasingly popular as efficient Internet access becomes more important to our everyday lives. In fact, they have become the standard in new computers.

V.90
A standard for 56K modems approved by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) in 1998. The V.90 standard resolves the previous battle between competing 56K technologies: X2, from 3COM, and K56flex, from Rockwell Semiconductor. Most people who purchased 56K modems before V.90 was passed are able to use a software upgrade to support V.90. 

Platform
While most modems work with both PC and Macintosh systems, some models are optimized for only one or the other. For example, Winmodems operate exclusively with Microsoft Windows 95/98/NT, and some Mac-compatible models come in designs that complement the newest Macintosh computers. 

Telephony
If your modem incorporates a voicemail feature, it can act as an answering machine, even allowing for multiple voicemail boxes. With a speakerphone feature, your modem serves as an all-purpose, hands-off speakerphone. Though a modem speakerphone lacks the clarity of a telephone, it works the same way as the speakerphone on your home or business telephone. Telephony-enabled modems usually include the needed software to run these operations, but if not, the software may be purchased separately. 

Alternatives
As alternatives to regular analog modems, several emerging modem technologies promise dramatically faster speeds and several added conveniences: ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network), cable modems, satellite connections, and DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) modems. These technologies require an upgraded service plan with a phone or cable company and will cost you extra money. These services are not recommended for beginners. 

What products are most recommended?
Economy: Low-budget and beginning users may opt for an economy 56K V.90 model, which are great for email and Internet use.

Value: In addition to 56K speeds, some home or small office models add features such as telephony, which may include voicemail, speakerphone capabilities, and call waiting.

Performance:Professional and corporate network users, gamers, and Web connoisseurs should consider a performance model, which offers more robust performance and features such as remote management, carrier loss redial, and callback security.