External modems

[ablang]

Do all External modems use the serial port? I can't buy one of these because my mouse uses that port, and I also believe the modem that uses the serial port is inherantly slower than one that uses the PCI bus.

Opinions, comments?

[RobRich]

Generally, my serial port modems offer significantly better performance as compared to most PCI solution when comparing peak bandwidth utilization.

As for other options, several manufactures are now offering external USB modems. From other's accounts, I believe 3COM/USR offer one of the better solutions, however I have never used this type of modem before. Also, do not expect much support outside of Windows for this solution.

Could you not just change to a PS/2 mouse inorder to free up the serial port?

Good Luck,
Robert Richmond

[OuTpaTienT]

You'd be much happier with a ps/2 mouse anyways. How can you stand a serial mouse? 40hz refresh, egads!

[NDD]

Don't you have another COM port on your system ? Most mobos come with two COM ports, unless you got an Asus, but even then you have this external thingie ...
As for USB solution, my friend is using one, as a backup for his DSL connection, I can't remember the make/model, but it's not 3COM/USR, yet, he never complained, you might try.

Best Regards ...