Avantage/disadvantage PCI modem

[David]

Most PCI modems are win modems (as I know). So, isn't this a disadvantage even though it is on a PCI bus due to the processor usage. Also data transfer is not enough to take advantage of the PCI bus?

Thanks,
David

[cpt puget]

1)processor usage
2)windows sometimes has trouble detecting w/m
3)more dropped connects
4)lower connect speeds
just a few of the problems i had with w/m's i had. usr and diamond SE hardware modems would be preferable

[Keeper1]

Don't forget:

5. No compatibility w/other OSs like Linux and DOS.
6. Less compatibility w/Windoze like BSOD, and lock ups.
7. Besides, you gotta do something with those ISA slots! http://www.sysopt.com/forum/wink.gif

[alan]

in the uk most pci modems with rockwell chipsets dont (for some reason) like free isp servers but isa they work fine but those with motarolla c/sets work fine, from what i can see no probs between isa and pci

[This message has been edited by alan (edited 04-14-99).]

[OZ]

My PCI Rockwell HCF modem is as fast as my external Rockwell ACF II modem. The internal modem usually connect at DCE speed of 50000 while the external usually connect at DCE speed of 48000. The only disadvantage of PCI modem is it disconnects me a lot of time while the external never disconnects me.

[GIMOER]

I tried to confgiure two diffrent PCI/Win modems and without any luck.One was a Cirus Logic and the other was Rockwell and I could'nt get them to work without serious problems.I then went to a Rockwell with jumpers made for ISA.No problems since,though I did put Motorola in my friends and this did configure correctly could be some are better than others.

[ANTONIO E GUERRA]

Pci technology will release the processor from certain activity. Pci also creates a better interface between the motherboard and the device. In addition, pci is easier in terms of plug 'n play (plug and pray). But, as you know, what works for me, probably won't work for you! I guess that is a rule on modems. I use Motorola pci modems without troubles. It is great to configure and will connect at 50k. However, you know that connection speed depends of many external factors such as your Isp, phone line, etc. Some people complain about Lucent Technologies, but they are great in my systems. According to the specs, Pci modems are better than isa but the difference is not noticeable. In the real world, the big difference is when you create that interface with the internet service provider. In my area, I can't log on to Aol but mindspring and bellsouth.net work fine. Some Rockwell modems work fine with certain isp and others won't. Make sure you call your ISP before you invest in a modem. Good luck!

[This message has been edited by ANTONIO E GUERRA (edited 04-16-99).]

[Rickee]

Hi,

I think that the reason for most PCI's being a "Winmodem only" all boils down to cost (goes hand in hand). However, there are WIN/DOS modems out there.

If you are concerned about speed, then look at whether the faxmodem is a hardware or software modem. The latter relies on the CPU to do some of it's functionality (which is one of the concerns you have posted).

I've had internal modems (both ISA and PCI) for most of my experiences and I've had no problems with it. However, as I found out in this discussion, I understand why my PCI modem sometimes gets disconnected from my ISP. Is there a way around this (ie. bios setting)?

As for connect speed, I've had no difference in connect speeds. The only one I do find is the connect speeds at V.90 versus X2/Kflex. I think it is more the quality of my lines than anything.

BTW, I had/have a USR 33.6 Voice/Fax, USR 56 V.90 Winmodem, Diamond Supra Max 56...

[RyanVM]

Well, my Diamond SupraMAX PCI modem has served me very well. Even with the POS phone lines/ISP I have, I connect as high as 46666bps! At my grandparents, I hit 49kbps! BTW - Diamond's drivers have DOS support included.

Ryan VanderMeulen
rvand@sirus.com