DSL ISPs    Cable Companies    Dialup Internet Service Providers

4. Buy a name brand modem

I recently bought an 'unnamed' internal data/fax/voice modem which is a K56Flex model using a Rockwell chipset. I have been reading that I now probably need a FLASH upgrade for it for my ISP (Easynet) as my firmware is Version 0.51 which is apparently out of date now.

The problem is I don't know the manufacturer of my modem. Here are all the Rockwell chip details and the ATI responses the modem gives me. Can I use ANY flash upgrade from another manufacturer???? Can you help in any way??

The answer to the next to the last question is no, you can't use a flash update from any manufacturer.

I now have a standard response to questions like this:

Run, don't walk, to the computer store and take back that modem! Get a name brand modem, preferably one of the ones listed in the buyer's guide that guarantess free upgrades to the final ITU standard.

A name brand modem costs a little more, but you'll get tech support, firmware and driver updates, and - if you shop wisely - a free upgrade to the final ITU standard.

I used to work on a technical support help desk for an Internet service provider. Believe me, there's nothing more frustrating than trying to help a customer who doesn't even know what brand of modem they own.

A name brand modem doesn't have to be a household name, and it doesn't have to be expensive. Here's what to check for:

• Make sure the box at least has the company's name on it. Seriously.
• Make sure the manual lists the phone number for the company's technical support line. Like Dave Barry says, I am not making this up.
• Find out if the company has a web site or FTP site for software updates, then visit the site to see if you can locate any updates. A good starting point is the Modem Maufacturer's Link Board.

Next rule: Read the 56K Primer to avoid any surprises

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