Re: IIGS + PowerMac via AppleTalk

[jd-wong@ta1.cs.uiuc.edu (Jim Wong)]

snelson@news.uiowa.edu (Steven Nelson) writes:
>Please explain.  We are using the Express modem with the Geoport Telecomm
>adpater.  The modem plugs into the modem/serial port just like any external
>modem.  The modem is connected to the phone jack just like any external
>modem.  The modem contains a jack for a telephone just like any external
>modem.  The modem responds to the AT command set just like any external
>modem.  The modem draws its power from the serial port _unlike_ a 
>How is the Geoport Express modem so different than a 'modem'.

The Telecom Adapter, combined with the Express Modem software, makes
use of the main processor to provide the functionality of a modem.
The idea was that the pod and associated software would provide
and inexpensive and easy to upgrade (since all the work is done in
software) alternative to conventional modems.  Unfortunately, two things
happened.  First, the price of hardware modems plummeted dramatically,
completely eradicating any price advantage the pod might have had.  Second,
Apple has yet to follow through on the upgradeability bit -- Express
Modem software supporting transmission rates higher than 14.4Kbps has
yet to make an appearance.

The only remaining advantage of the pod is better-integrated telephony.
--
Jim Wong (jd-wong@uiuc.edu)