1-2 CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

The 3Com Impact ISDN External Digital Modem (referred to as the 3Com Impact digital modem throughout this guide) is an external, stand-alone ISDN Basic Rate digital modem for connection with digital telephone services from local telephone companies in North America. It is designed for users who require high-speed access to the Internet, on-line information services, or their corporate local area network (LAN). A typical 3Com Impact digital modem application is shown in Figure 1-1.

3Com Impact

ISDN External

Digital Modem

3ComImpact

ISDN line

Public telephone

network

Analog or ISDN line

Internet

or

on-line service

Analog or ISDN line

Corporate

LAN

Figure 1-1 Analog and Digital Network Access with the 3Com Impact Digital Modem

Four models of the 3Com Impact digital modem are sold in the U.S. and Canada:

3C871 is the IBMâ or IBM-compatible PC external digital modem product.

3C872 is the IBM or IBM-compatible PC external digital modem product with an internal 14.4 Kbps analog fax modem.

3C876 is the Appleâ Macintoshâ external digital modem product.

3C877 is the Apple Macintosh external digital modem product with an internal 14.4 Kbps analog fax modem.

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3Com DIGITAL MODEM manual Introduction

DIGITAL MODEM specifications

The 3Com Digital Modem represents a significant advancement in communication technology, designed to enhance data transmission over telephone lines. This modem is a part of a lineage of 3Com products that focus on delivering robust networking solutions, tailored for both personal and professional use.

One of the main features of the 3Com Digital Modem is its high-speed data transfer capabilities. With speeds reaching up to 56 Kbps, it allows users to send and receive large amounts of data quickly, which is essential for applications that require efficient data exchange. This speed ensures smoother internet browsing, quicker downloads, and more reliable connections for applications such as video conferencing and online gaming.

The modem is equipped with advanced error correction technologies, including V.42 and V.42bis protocols. These protocols help to maintain data integrity by detecting and correcting errors during transmission. This results in a more reliable connection, reducing the likelihood of dropped calls or corrupted data transfers, which can be particularly frustrating for users engaged in critical business communications.

Another notable characteristic of the 3Com Digital Modem is its compatibility with various operating systems, making it versatile for different users. It supports Windows, Mac, and various other platforms, ensuring that it can be integrated seamlessly into existing systems without the need for extensive configuration. This plug-and-play capability simplifies installation for users, allowing them to get connected quickly and efficiently.

The modem also incorporates an innovative design that facilitates improved heat dissipation, ensuring optimal performance during prolonged use. Its compact form factor makes it suitable for both home and office environments, allowing for easy setup without consuming excessive desk space.

In addition to these features, the 3Com Digital Modem boasts strong security protocols, ensuring that users' data is protected against unauthorized access while being transmitted. This is particularly important in today’s digital landscape, where data breaches and cyber threats are prevalent.

Overall, the 3Com Digital Modem combines speed, reliability, and security, making it a valuable asset for anyone looking to enhance their connectivity experience. Its robust feature set and user-friendly design cater to a broad audience, from casual users to business professionals, reflecting the evolution of modem technology in a digital-first world.