Today's internet framework is supported by an ecosystem of various networking devices. While many types of hardware enable a network to function, one of the most important is the modem. As nearly every household and business with an internet connection has a modem, it is beneficial to have a basic understanding of how a modem works. In this blog, we will discuss the history, design, and applications of modern modems.
A modem, which is a portmanteau of modulator-demodulator, is a networking device that facilitates back and forth communication between an internet service provider and a customer. The original use of a modem dates back to the 1940s when they were used to send and receive digital data through telephone lines. In 1958, the U.S. Department of Defense became the first enterprise to use modems to connect various terminals, implementing the technology as part of the SAGE airspace defense system. The following decades brought about better technology which enabled the modem to be used in dial-up connections.
For their standard operations, modems first receive electrical signals from internet service providers through cables and phone lines. Then, the modem demodulates the signal, changing it from an analog form to digital, which can be interpreted by a computer. Alternatively, when sending data the other way, a modem must modulate the digital signal to an analog form, which can be transmitted through cables. Modulation and demodulation involve changing the waveform of a signal, either in amplitude or frequency, commonly abbreviated as AM and FM, respectively. Modems are almost always used alongside a router to deliver internet to devices throughout a building.
While all modems perform a similar function, they are generally classified according to their hardware specifications or special capabilities. For example, the external modem includes the hardware found outside of a computer. Conversely, an internal modem is a component integrated with the computer's framework that functions the same as an external modem. Furthermore, line connection classification describes the number of wires that a modem dedicates to receiving and transmitting data. Nearly every model uses a 2 or 4 wire configuration. Additionally, modems can be classified by their directional capacity. For example, full-duplex modems have the ability to transmit data in both directions, while half-duplex models can only allow for one-directional flow at a time.
There are also specialized modems with unique capabilities that can be used in a variety of applications. For example, fax modems can receive and send fax documents through telephone lines. They can either be found as internal devices in a computer or as external equipment. Short-haul modems are used for local communication or private networks to facilitate high-speed data connections. Finally, wireless modems eliminate the need for a wired connection to send data to devices. Instead of cables, these contemporary devices use radio or infrared waves to transmit data.
There are several factors that determine the performance of a modem and its subsequent ability to provide high-speed internet. The most significant of these factors is the data over cable service interface (DOCSIS). The standard DOCSIS rating for most of the modems available is 3.0, which allows for speeds up to 1Gbps. However, there is a newer option called DOCSIS 3.1, which supports speeds up to 10 Gbps. The other factor in a modem's capabilities is the number of downstream and upstream channels it contains, with more channels supporting a greater maximum download speed.
Regardless of the type of modem you are looking for, Just IT Hardware has you covered. We are a leading distributor of networking devices and other electronic components with an inventory of over two billion ready-to-ship items. Additionally, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation, which means you can rely on the quality of our products. As you explore our expansive part inventories, we invite you to fill out and submit an RFQ form as provided on our website to request quotes for your comparisons. If you have questions about any of the services we provide, give our team an email or call today.
All Orders are Fulfilled in the U.S.A.
All shipments must comply with U.S.A export laws.
No exceptions.
The only independent distributor
with a NO CHINA SOURCING Pledge
If You Would Like to Get High Quality IT Hardware Parts, Just Click on The "Request For Quote" Button Below.
Request for Quote