To: From: Kenny Bourbeau Subject: Software Modems Cc: Bcc: X-Attachments: In-Reply-To: References: X-Stationery: 8637 3 X-Eudora-Signature: Special Report:
Beware Soft Modems
When you buy your next modem, you could innocently buy a
software-based modem, not realizing the limitations of what
you're buying.

Why soft modems are different
Software-based modems use fewer chips compared
to traditional modems. The work normally done by the
missing chips is transferred to software running on the
host computer's main processor (the Pentium, PowerPC, etc.).

How do you know if it's a software modem?
There are a number of clues that your modem is software based:

·       If a modem is advertised as Windows-only,
        it is probably software-based.
·       The phrase "controlless modem" isn't just a clue:
        it's an absolutely accurate description.

Some of the worst problem modems include:
        - US Robotics Winmodem
                often found in Dell & other new machines
        - Lucent LT Winmodem
        - Conexant Modems
                often found in HP, Compac, E-machines
        - Motorola Modems

The cons
There are a number of flaws in the soft modem concept.

        In all cases, your host computer has to do more
        work to make up for the modem's lack of hardware.

        The software needed to make them work is
        generally Windows-only, so they can't be used with
        Linux, DOS, or other systems.

        Winmodem configuration can be messy, because
        Winmodems use a range of memory addresses instead
        of a fixed memory address.

Mini-Fact....   Nearly 40% of all technical support calls handled

by True Vine Online could be eliminated if customers

        were using traditional modems

The pros
If software-based have these problems, why do they continue to sell?

        In part, the answer is cost. By omitting a few chips,
        manufacturers can sell Winmodems for twenty to fifty
        dollars less than traditional modems.

        Soft modems are also popular for features like answering
        machine features, which are easier to implement with a soft
        modem.

        Upgradeability Because almost every aspect of the
        modem is in software, the modem is highly upgradeable.

In general, We recommend avoiding software modems.
Get a good old-fashioned modem with all of its chips intact.
Nothing else offers the same level of reliability, compatibility, and
performance. The small savings of buying a Winmodem doesn't
compensate for the load it shifts to your expensive new Pentium.

****>>>> Should you decide to replace your modem. Be sure to buy
                a HARDWARE based modem and AVOID ALL WINMODEMS
                or Software modems.
                (If the box says it REQUIRES Windows, it is software, don't buy it)
Good hardware modems include:

- Hayes Accura

- Zoom V92 Modems

-Creative Labs Modem Blaster # Di5631

Generally good hardware modems are available at places like Best Buy for
around $60.