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    Why does DSL or high-speed internet require a modem?

    Question #68168. Asked by kyleisalive. (Jul 12 06 6:24 PM)


    zbeckabee

    		To receive and translate information.

    A modem (a portmanteau constructed from modulate and demodulate) is a device that modulates an analog carrier signal to encode digital information, and also demodulates such a carrier signal to decode the transmitted information. The goal is to produce a signal that can be transmitted easily and decoded to reproduce the original digital data. Modems can be used over any means of transmitting analog signals, from driven diodes to radio. Experiments have even been performed in the use of modems over the medium of two cans connected by a string.

    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modem

    Jul 12 06, 6:42 PM
    volshan

    		Actually, the term 'modem' for the devices that are 'between' your computer and the Internet for DSL and Cable broadband Internet access is a misnomer, for they don't modulate or demodulte anything. These devices are more properly be called 'interfaces' or 'adapters'.

    DSL and Cable broadband both have slightly different methods of transmission than 'Ethernet' (which is 'built into' most computers today) and the adapters understand the Etehrnet method and translate it to the transmission method used by the DSL or Cable broadband connection.

    Jul 13 06, 5:22 AM

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