| How to Install a Cable, DSL and Dial Up Modem |
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If you want to connect to the Internet, your computer must have a modem of some sort. Modems come in several different varieties each with their own special needs. The most common types of modems are cable, DSL, and dial up modems. You can’t simple decide, “I think I’ll pick a cable modem.” Why not? Because if you don’t have cable Internet service available, it’ll be a useless exercise.
First, find out what type of Internet service is available in your area and let that be your guide. Almost everyone will have dial up access readily available as this type of connection takes place over standard telephone lines. The downside of dial up is that it is the slowest connection available. DSL and cable are both broadband services that dramatically improve connection speed. DSL takes place over a “digital subscriber” phone line. You’ll need to order this from your phone company if it’s available in your area. DSL isn’t available to all service areas. Cable Internet access is also extremely fast. If your cable company offers Internet access, this is a terrific way to go.
Since each type of Internet connection uses a different means of connecting to the Internet (phone lines, digital subscriber lines, and cable), each type needs a compatible modem.
In general, dial up modems are usually installed inside the computer while DSL and Cable modems are external. To install a dial up modem into a computer with a free expansion slot, you will first need to turn off your computer, unplug it, and disconnect all peripherals. Take off the case and remove the expansion slot’s metal plate. Insert your modem into the slot with a gentle yet firm touch. The connectors should fit into a slot on your motherboard. Do not touch any connectors. Put your computer back together and connect a phone cord into the modem’s “line” jack.
Dial up modems also come in external versions which is a matter of connecting them to your computer with the supplied USB or serial cable. Either way, you will need to install the modem’s device drivers in order for the modem to communicate with your operating system. Insert the disc into your drive and follow the “add new hardware” prompts.
Test the modem by going into the Control Panel and clicking Modems (or Phone and Modems). Find your modem in the list and click the Modem tab. Click the Properties button and then choose the Diagnostics tab. From here, you can Query the modem. To connect to the Internet, you will need to dial up the number provided to you by your Internet Service Provider. When you are connected, your phone line will be busy. You cannot make or receive phone calls during this time.
To install either a DSL or Cable modem, you must have a Network Interface Card, or NIC card, installed on your computer. Most new computers have these preinstalled. The DSL or Cable modem will have a CAT5 cable that connects the computer to the modem. This cable looks like an oversized phone cord.
In addition, the modem itself needs a connection to the Internet. You will be connected to the Internet at all times. DSL lines allow you to be connected to the Internet and make and receive phone calls at the same time. Cable access is completely separate from your phone line. In order to get this initial Internet connection to your modem, you will need to have your phone or cable company install a jack near your computer. Connect the modem to this jack using the cable the utility provides you.
In addition, device drivers and related software must be installed. You should be prompted by Windows to install the installation discs. After installing the device drivers by following the prompts, you may still have further installation tasks which should be documented by your Internet Service Provider.
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