Re: Modems

[pubpc1@library.ucla.edu]

<JCA31@MAINE.MAINE.EDU> wrote:
>Did Apple modems typically (or ever) have built in firmware?
>I recently came by a 2400bps modem, stuck it in slot 2, and did
>a PR#2, but didn't get any response. I'm just wondering if i
>have to find some terminal software to get the beastie running,
>or not. also, i haven't gone over this card looking for 'feature'
>connectors, but how likely would it be that a modem might be
>usable as a straight rs-232 serial port?
>
>-j

Some did come with built in firmware (the Prometheus 1200 and 2400
cards, for example), but many did not.  In any case, many of those
early cards were not Hayes AT compatible, which means that most of
the commercial or freeware/shareware/PD terminal programs will
not recognize them.  Such cards are not likely usable was RS232
serial ports without some major hacking.  You are better off getting
a real serial card from Alltech Electronics (http://www.allelec.com/)
or Sequential Systems (http://www.sequential.com/).  Then you can
connect any 14.4K Hayes compatible (ie. V32bis) modem or a modem
of another speed to the port (if using a 14.4, set the serial card's
speed to 19,200...unless you have the Turbo ASB modification in which
case you might want to use 38,400).

Good terminal software are Proterm (http://www.intrec.com/) for
the 8-bit Apple IIe and IIc.  For the GS, some may prefer Spectrum,
which offers an upcoming web browser addon (http://www.sevenhills.com/).

-Scott G.