Get Connected

Types of Modem-Connections

If you're connecting to the Internet for the first time, besides you modem and phone line, you'll need some software; usually a dialer, a browser and an e-mail program, and an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

All the recent versions of Windows ('95 onwards) include all the software you need to connect to the Internet. Many modem vendors provide a complete suite of Internet software in the box with the modem. Some vendors also provide a CD-ROM that with Internet software and online signup offers from several ISPs.

The pricing for ISP accounts depend on the number of hours you use. Some ISPs offer "unlimited" surfing for a bulk price, while others provide a certain number of connection hours at a basic rate.

Cable Modem
The Cable-modem service has been launched in a few cities in India and is gaining popularity. The service usually does not offer you a choice of ISPs. Instead, the cable provider in your area signs up with an ISP provider and then rents you the cable modem that works with that service and charges you one bill for access.

A cable modem connection is like being on a large Ethernet LAN. The connection is always on and speeds vary depending on how many people in your area are logged in. The speeds average between 3Mbps and 4Mbps and setup costs vary regionally. It is advisable to avoid one-way cable-modem services that tie up your phone line for the upstream data path.

ADSL
Asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) is a service that is offered by phone companies. It is currently not available in India, but is expected to be launched soon. ADSL uses existing phone lines to download data at speeds from 128Kbps to a theoretical maximum of 8Mbps. Most of the consumer-oriented services download data up to 1.5Mbps (or less, in some cases), with uploads topping out at 512Kbps. The 1.5Mbps speed will become more common as the new G.Lite standard catches on.

Satellite
An exciting future possibility for modems, is the satellite connection. Reputed to have a download speed of 400Kbps, the uplink connection is still via a conventional 33.6Kbps modem call. However, the downsides include expensive equipment in the forn of a 24-inch dish positioned having a clear view of the southern sky and considerably higher monthly subscription charges.

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