"The Efficient modem is advertised as an "USB ATM/ADSL DMT External
Modem". I didn't know that the ADI chipset was low powered enough to be
connected through the USB. When I talked to the Pairgain rep, he kept emphasizing
that the Falcon chip (.5 watts) was the only ADSL DMT chip efficient enough to be
connected through the USB port. He stated that "the X200 router must use an
Ethernet connection, because its chipset requires 5 watts" and Ethernet connections
are much more expensive than USB connections. "
I'd like to clarify a few things. To deploy ADSL solution,
1. You need ADSL Access Multiplexer at telcos.
2. You need an ADSL modem at users' premises.
3. A way to connect the ADSL modem to your PC.
ADSL chips are used in the ADSL modem, which comes with a power adapter or power supply. So power consumption between .5 watts and 5 watts is no issue. I do think heat will be one since you don't want to have a fan in the modem. AWARE ships run very cool, I believe.
There are three different ways to interface to your PC, i.e. Ethernet,
ATM and USB in the future.
Traditionally, PC's serial ports are low speed, up to 128Kbps, which is not fast enough for ADSL. To overcome that barrier, vendors have chosen ethernet and ATM interfaces.
In Ameritech's Michigan trail area, the ATM interface is used. An ATM adapter is plugged in the PC, and connect to the ADSL modem's ATM interface.
Yes, USB interface will be cheaper. |
