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  • #2086531

    Modem differences

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    by mike ·

    What is the difference between a DSP (Digital signal processor) modem and a HSP (Host signal processing) modem?

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    • #3864324

      Modem differences

      by jpublicsmartgate ·

      In reply to Modem differences

      A modem with a Digital Signal Processor (DSP) has a chip dedicated to performing the necessary functions for your modem to send and receive information. These modems are more expensive since they have the processor built-in.

      A Host Signal Processing (HSP) modem does not have the processor built into the modem to ‘modulate and demodulate’ the modems signals. Now you are wondering how on earth a HSP modem can work if it has no processor to do the work. What happens is ths HSP modem uses your main CPU (you know, your 300MHz Pentium) to do all the work for the modem. These modems are typically called Winmodems and despite the fancy name, they are not as good and are always cheaper.

      If you only use your modem for web browsing and email and you have a fast processor (>400Mhz) you can probably get away with a HSP/Winmodem and save yourself the $50 or whatever. But if you use your modem for games I would not recommend it.

      My advice would be to spend the extra money and get the better modem. Almost always, the modem is the slowest link in your chain for using the internet, might as well make it as fast as you can.

      • #3864179

        Modem differences

        by mike ·

        In reply to Modem differences

        Thank you, I figured as much but it’s good to have confirmation.

    • #3864178

      Modem differences

      by mike ·

      In reply to Modem differences

      This question was closed by the author

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