The topic of the day for our first show is modems. We'll be talking about 56k vs. cable modems, giving you some links to get more info, helping you stay connected on the road in the Mobile Minute, and giving some advice to those with "less abled" modems in T-Wrecks Tips.

Let's dive right in:

First, 56K. We've seen these as low as $49 with various rebates. One possible hitch: there's no agreed-upon protocol standard yet. That's not expected until mid-'98. Right now there are two competing technologies: "x2" and "K56flex."

Manufacturers of both say theirs will be upgradable to any new standard when it comes, so it may not matter too much which one you pick in the long run. In the short run, you need to make sure your Internet Service Provider, or ISP, has dial-in lines supporting the modem type you plan to buy. So your internet access costs won't change, but at some point you may want to add another phone line if you're currently tying up your voice line while surfing. For more info on 56k, check out Yahoo's 56K area

Next: Cable modems. For this to be an option, you must subscribe to a cable company that offers this service. The modem will probably cost you about $99 installed, and $45 a month for unlimited access. Be sure to watch the show for a split screen comparison of the speed difference. Another benefit of cable modems is that with most of them you don't tie up your phone line. For more info on cable modems, go to the cable modem areas at:

Southwestern's Roadrunner

Cox's @Home