WinNT_4me 0 Posted June 3, 2004 Hi. I have used dial-up ever since I connected to the internet in '99. Recently, the service has gone downhill and I'm looking for other options. Could someone tell me how ISDN is? (as far as modem price & service quality/speed). Thanks. Share this post Link to post
ross_aveling 0 Posted June 3, 2004 I would advise that you steer clear of ISDN if possible. ISDN is an older technology that is being superseded by newer broadband services like DSL and cable. Speed wise, ISDN offers a maximum connection of 128kbs, but if you’d like the ability to make voice phone calls at the same time, the speed is reduced to 64kbs (AFAIK, you will always be guaranteed to connect at these speeds). ADSL or cable commonly connect at around 512kbs. You would probably need to have an engineer visit your site to install additional telephony hardware and a special ISDN modem (more commonly called a 'Terminal Adapter') would need to be purchased for connection to your PC (these are normally internal). Cost wise (at least here in the UK) you need to pay for installation, the TA/modem and an additional monthly ISDN fee. You also still need to pay for the phone call to connect to the internet (voice call charges remain the same). IMHO, the extra cost, along with the reletively slow connection speed (a ‘normal’ modem connects at up to 56kbs after all) makes ISDN only suitable for businesses who can afford it, or for those who have no way of getting a broadband service in their area. Hope this helps you. Ross Share this post Link to post
