USB Modem : What is it?
| USB modems connect to the computer through the USB port, a common connector for peripheral devices. They allow the computer to communicate with other computers via telephone, cable, or wireless networks. Because USB ports are widely used, USB modems have better compatibility than serial and internal modems. However, most models require special software and system resources to operate, so they are generally designed for single-computer use. |
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Kinds of USB Modems include the following: |
Analog USB modems
Analog USB modems send and receive data using regular telephone lines.
They have maximum speeds of 56 kilobits per second (kbps), but average speeds are usually much lower because phone lines have limited capacities.
They are the cheapest type of modem and often have the lowest service rates.
Cable USB modems
Cable USB modems receive data by connecting to the coaxial wire that receives cable television signals. This maintains a constant connection and does not require a dialup to connect to the Internet.
They are up to 100 times faster than analog modems, but most providers limit upload speeds to regulate traffic on the cable.
Because they use the neighborhood television service, they can slow down when too many households in an area connect with cable modems. Users can also tap into other computers, limiting privacy and security.
ISDN USB modems
ISDN USB modems send and receive data from a dedicated digital phone line.
They can achieve speeds of up to 128 kbps, although USB connections can limit data transfer speeds.
They share the same bandwidth as the analog telephone line, so connection speed can drop to about 64 kbps when both the phone and Internet lines are in use.
ADSL USB modems
ADSL USB modems receive data via regular phone lines, but at much higher frequencies and an always-on connection.
They offer connection speeds as high as 1.5 megabits per second (mbps), but providers may also limit download speeds to subscribers.
Connection speeds are also dependent on location. Data is transmitted through a central switching office, so the farther the modem is from the switch, the slower the connection. |
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Security: Choose a USB modem with a firewall or filter to prevent harmful files from entering your computer. Look for one with a large memory chip for storing both operation codes and protection updates.
Controllers: Choose a hardware-based USB modem instead of a software-based one for better compatibility. Software-based modems work only with certain operating systems and use up your system resources, which may slow down your computer.
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