V.90 modems
• Modem standard still evolving •
eagle.ca is the only local ISP offering the new V.90 (56k) modem standard for faster surfing! To take advantage of the higher speeds offered by K56flex and V.90 modems, you must be using a V.90 or K56flex compatible modem and connect to our 373-7260 circuits.

For the best results, we recommend the use of modems from 3Com®/ U.S.Robotics®, Zoom, Supra/Diamond. If possible, DO NOT purchase Winmodem models (also called "controllerless" or "soft" modems) from any manufacturer (it seems like they all make these types of modems) . These inexpensive modems rely on your computer processor and software to complete operations that are built-in to better quality modems.

Why should you purchase a better quality modem? The modem quickly becomes the weak link in your communication chain if it is not working optimally. Yes, the lower priced modems will usually work but they rob resources from your computer and do not process data as quickly as a hardware based modem does. Think of it like a car engine... a naturally aspirated car generally does not perform as well as a car with fuel-injection. A fuel-injected engine of the same size will usually deliver better performance and is more fuel efficient, however, fuel-injected technology is marginally more expensive than the technology used in naturally aspirated engines.

How much more will I pay for a hardware based modem? First, we have to understand why "soft" modems are  cheaper. The reason manufacturers started making "soft" modems was because they can save money by transferring some of the functionality to your computer's internal processor. By making your computer do some of the work, the modem needs fewer chips built into it. This makes economical sense but does make for an efficient modem.

Some of that cost savings is passed on to the distributor and then on to the retailer and then a smaller savings is passed on to the consumer. "Soft" modems generally wholesale for approximately 60% of the cost of a hardware based modem. At the retail level this can amount to approximately $100 to $150. When you consider the total cost of your computer, the amount of time you will be using it for Internet purposes and the length of time you will own the computer, the cost savings is negligible.

Will you really connect at 56k?
In a word... NO. 56k is a theoretical speed if all conditions are perfect. Line noise, wire gauge, distances, even weather can affect your speed. Common connect speeds range from 36333bps to 49000bps. Many users are just happy to finally be connecting at 28.8 or 33.6 on a regular basis. In general terms, the better your modem, the faster your connection will be.

The performance of 56k modems varies greatly. To be sure that your 56K or V.90 modem is working optimally, check with the modem manufacturer's website for updates to your modem firmware. Firmware is the instruction set embedded in the electronic chips on the modem. Even a brand new modem may have been manufactured six months ago and updates may now be available. You can find a lot of useful information about 56k modems at http://www.56k.com/.

Protect your modem and your computer by using an electrical surge protector that filters hydro and telephone connections. If you already have a surge protector without phone protection, you can buy surge protectors for just your phone line. Check with your local computer dealer or home electronics store.

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