Jamie,
Thursday, December 7, 2006, 10:37:14 AM, you wrote:
JW> On Thu, Dec 07, 2006 at 09:19:29AM +0000, David Anderson wrote:
>> It is generally thought that an ADSL modem is not up to the task of
>> running on the ADSL Max service, and that a router is a better
>> option.
>>
>> Zen offer the Speedtouch 536 at £39+VAT and the 546 at £45+VAT. They
>> will also configure them so they work straight out of the box.
>>
>> Bear in mind that a modem will switch off the connection whenever
>> the PC is rebooted or turned off, and the way that Max works can
>> cause a lessening of the sync rate for a few days. With a router
>> left on continuously the rate will settle down after 10 days.
>>
>> Unless cost is a major factor, don't even consider a modem.
JW> Do you have a source for this? It sounds like FUD.
I have switched my router off twice whilst on holidays - 5 days each
time. Looking at my BT line stats before and after shows a retrain
at a lower rate on return, slowly building up over the course of a
few days.
Good enough source for you?
JW> The connection training period is done at BT's end. It's only done
JW> once. Reboots after that should not be a problem, for either a modem
JW> or a router.
The doubts about an ADSL USB modem are more to do with the USB not
handling the datarate efficiently.
Most ISPs were recommending a router rather than USB modem around
the Max launch.
Seems to me that if you are thinking of a new modem it is silly not
to go for the added flexibility of a router instead, particularly as
most nowadays come with a built in firewall.
--
Best regards,
David mailto:dma@pern.co.uk
