modem Hear it!

modem Definition

mo·dem (mō′dəm, -dem)

noun

a device that converts data to a form that can be transmitted, as by telephone, to data-processing equipment where a similar device reconverts it

Etymology: mo(dulator) + dem(odulator)

Modem Hacker Definition
Acronym for Modulator Demodulator, which changes information from analog form (such as that used on telephone lines) to digital form (such as that used on computers) for computer-to-computer communications. Though modems can transmit information at maximum rates of 56,000 bits per second (bps) or 56 kbps, limitations in the telephone system realistically produce modem speeds at 33.6 kbps or lower in practice. Today, modems for cable and DSL service are called digital modems, whereas those used for dial-up service are called analog modems. This terminology is somewhat misleading because all modems actually involve analog signaling. “Digital” relates to enhanced digital processing in the service provider’s systems and not within the modem per se. Cable modems and DSL modems utilize broadband signaling methods to obtain dramatically higher network speeds than traditional modems were able to obtain.

See Also: Cable Modem; DSL; Modem.

About, Inc. Modem. [Online, 2004.] About, Inc. Website. http:// compnetworking.about.com/library/glossary/bldef-modem.htm.
modem (modulator/demodulator) Telecom Definition
  1. A device that comprises both a modulator that changes a signal in some way in the forward direction and a demodulator that changes the signal back to its original form in the backward direction, essentially reversing the modulation process. Modems operate in balanced and symmetrical pairs, with one at each end of the communications circuit and with both having the same capabilities, at least at a minimum level.There are many types of devices characterized as modems, including cable modems, conventional modems, ADSL modems, ISDN modems (terminal adapters, or TAs), line drivers, and short haul modems. See also ADSL, cable modem, line driver, short haul modem, and TA.
  2. A conventional modem is a signal conversion device that interfaces a digital device to an analog circuit or channel. On the transmit side of the connection, a modem accepts an incoming digital signal and modulates (i.e., changes or varies) the characteristics of an electromagnetic waveform in some way to represent that signal over an analog carrier. The modulation technique generally involves amplitude modulation (AM), frequency modulation (FM), phase modulation (PM), or some combination. On the receive side of the connection, a modem with matching capabilities accepts the modulated signal over the analog carrier and demodulates the signal to extract the information and recreate the original digital signal. Many modems are capable of operating in full duplex, simultaneously modulating signals as they transmit them and demodulating signals as they receive them. See also AM, FM, and PM.
modem Usage Examples

Converse of object

  • configure: Written to assist the Linux user in configuring a cable modem for internet access using a cable network.
  • unplug: If broadband: Either unplug the dial-up modem or uninstall the modem software.
  • initialize: Software is quite stable but its a bit slow for the interactive or anytime it needs to initialize the modem.
  • connect: With a straight-thru or modem cable, connect the modem to an unused serial port on the PC.

Adjective modifier

  • dial-up: Free * Internet Access - You can still get free internet access for your dial-up modem.
  • 28k: Listen to Realaudio Clip for 28k modem / for 56k modem Solo violin or violin and strings.
  • 56kb: The following map files are very large and could take over one hour to download on file on a 56kb modem.
  • analog: The Duo can call an analog modem, fax machine or faxmodem using your ISDN line.
  • built-in: The built-in modem is a chip on the motherboard used primarily in laptops.
  • v.92: V.92 modems are suffering similar problems with an extra twist.

Modifies a noun

  • router: Managed broadband comes with a supplied SDSL modem router which will be configured with your supplied network settings.
  • connection: To be honest, I have no idea how fast my modem connections are actually running.
  • dialup: Protocols TAP - All UK SMS Message Centers use this protocol via modem dialup.
  • cable: They will look like a large phone or modem cable.

Noun used with modifier

  • 56k: Download time 11 seconds based on a 56k modem.
  • adsl: ADSL modems can therefore tolerate impulses of arbitrary magnitude whose effect on the data stream lasts no longer than 500 ms.
  • cable: Cable modem goes into the computer through a Network Card.
  • dialup: They are available in three bandwidths, for dialup modem and broadband users.
  • broadband: Many broadband modems now come with a wireless router built in.
  • dsl: Firewalls and Networks: OK, I have a question regarding internal dsl modems and setting up a wireless network for my house.