MO'-DEM: MOdulate - DEModulate. A modem converts your computer's digital signal to analog for transmission over phone lines where, at the receiving end, another modem converts these analog pulses back to digital so they may be used by the receiving computer. It's really a simplified description of what happens, but it's all I need to know about its inner workings.

There are two common types of modems for desktop systems: an ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) and a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect). While either is sufficient for general everyday uses, try to get a PCI if your system has a free PCI slot. The PCI card generally transfers data faster internally than does the ISA. The ISA goes in a slot that is Black in color while the PCI fits into a White slot. Each slot is "keyed" differently. Believe me - that is all you really need to remember for selecting the right general purpose modem.

Now, there are specially designed modems which recognize voice, caller-ID, and various other things too numerous to discuss here. The main point to remember is that all recent modems will receive and transmit data and fax information; which is mostly what we use our modems for anyway.

Adding a modem to a computer is really a fairly simple affair.

FIRST you need turn off the power. Then identify which type you need based on the available slot(s) you have in your system. You can usually open your case by removing 2 to 4 screws on the back edge and removing the case. DON'T TOUCH ANYTHING without A) wearing a grounding strap, or B) touching the power supply (the box located where your power cord plugs into your case). This simple act discharges any static electricity you may have. Remember - One jolt of static WILL ruin your system.

Most all modems today are "plug-and-play" - meaning they don't need 'jumpers' on the card to set them up. Don't buy a modem with jumpers unless you'd like to learn about them.

SECOND you need to remove the modem from its box and push it into the slot in the motherboard. Remember to hold the card along the edge versus on the card face as grease attracts dust which attracts heat which will eventually fry or otherwise ruin your modem. Make certain the key(s) (slots) in the pin edge of the modem line up with those in the motherboard slot. Now carefully align the card in the slot and push down firmly, rocking the card length-wise in the slot ever so slightly. You will feel when the card fully seats itself. No pins should be visible when inserted properly. Insert and tighten the screw at the back of the card to secure the card to the case.

THIRD you should replace the cover of your case. Insert your phone cord to the wall outlet and to the "LINE" connection on the outside of your modem. Take a deep breath and power up your system. You should be able to follow your modem manufacturer's instructions for loading modem driver software at this point. Drivers are small programs that allow your computer's operating system and other programs to communicate effectively with system hardware (such as a modem), allowing all the built-in features to function properly.

As with all hardware components, you should read the manufacturers instructions completely before beginning the installation to get an idea of the steps you'll need to perform and the tools you'll need (usually a number 2 Phillips-head screwdriver and a wrist strap).

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