Common DSL Modem Information
Some DSL providers will include your modem free with service contract signup. Others will charge you seperately for this equipment. Sometimes it pays to shop around and purchase your own router dsl and dsl modem independently from the provider if you are doing your own internet setup.
Can you use the same modem for DSL as you do for cable from your cable tv company?
No, to add to that, each cable provider might recommend their own cable modem and router, just as each DSl company may do the same. Check first before you attempt to do your own installation, especially if you are switching from one type of service to another.
A cable modem will usally require a splitter, which splits the signal to each of the tv and your computer(s).
Are there different types of cable modems?
Yes, there are three types - external, internal and interactive set top box. Therefore, there are a number of ways to configure cable modems.
Can you use the same modem for any DSL service you might get?
No, there are different types of DSL and the modem capabilities may differ for each.
Diferent types of DSL service include
- SDSL (symmetric digital subscriber line - has a bit speed of about 1.5 mbps
- IDSL (ISDN digital subscriber line) - has a bit speed of about 128kbps
- HDSL (high-bit rate digital subscriber line) - has a bit speed of about 1.5 mbps
- VDSL (very high-bit-rate digital subscriber line) - has very highdownload speeds of about 20 mbps
- RADSL (rate-active digital subscriber line
Each type of dsl modem has it's own advantages and pricing points.
