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56K modems are only useful for normal internet browsing from an ISP, and then only if all of the required conditions (there are many) are met. It's generally useless for video conferencing or internet phone calls, because it is 56k in one direction only, and when both parties are using such modems, it effectively becomes 33.6 in both directions. For now, where it is available, cable modems are the next step up, followed by ISDN, remaining solutions (T-1 lines etc.) generally not being practical for individuals. This may change next year, MS and Intel are going to jointly push ASDL, a type of digital phone line similar to ISDN in some ways but much less complex and expensive. How successful this effort is, however, remains to be seen. |
