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modems for use in the hinterlands

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by tracarts 1 view

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I am in the unenviable position of living 17 miles from the nearest phone switch, so dsl and cable modems are totally out. I am not ready to jump on the satelite bandwagon, but can anyone out there recommend a really good brand and/or manufacturer of modems that can handle poor quality phone lines, some noise that filters through and in general a not super great connection. I currently have a Zoom 56K and it is not meeting the challenge. The really great thing about where I live is that the nearest neighbor is 3/4's of a mile away.

Thanks to all who have ideas.

5 replies

by fossil

Have you considered ISDN? Once set up, the packet nature of ISDN is less touchy than the analog signal required by tradition analog modems. If your telco CO switch is equipped (as most in the US are) you should be able to get ISDN service. You can read more about ISDN at http://www.nationalisdncouncil.com/ and then call your telco. The setup used to be a trying experience, but given your position, it might be the best long-term solution.

by tracarts

I checked into this, it isn't available through my phone company unless I wish to set up for a small business starting at $799.00 per month, for that I could get into the satelite systems. Thanks for the idea though

by whoopi cushion

The unfortunate thing about dial-up connections is that you will always be limited by the quality of the telephone lines. What does your phone company have to say on that front? If the issue you're trying to correct is one of speed, then the phonecompany should be able to let you know what speed of data transmission they believe you should be able to get. If your present modem is performing significantly below that, try new drivers for it before investing money in a new modem. If the problem you're confronting is dropped connections, then I would suspect that any modem you might try would be vulnerable. I have heard good things about Zoom and about 3Com, so if you are determined to try a new modem, then you might try a 3Com. Good luck with this very frustrating problem.

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