The Modem[]
By Sophia Steckler[]
The Modem is a device that connects the computer to the Internet. Modems are essentially translators, turning digital information into analog signals, then back again to digital info after entering the telephone line. This device is essential for bridging the gap between digital and telephone language, an element that is crucial to access the Internet.
Because computer technology is mainly digital (storing, processing, and transmitting through 1s and 0s - a binary system in which computers operate), and telephone technology is generally analog (storing, processing, and transmitting through waves - a signal represented by the vibrations of one's voice), it is imperative that an apparatus is must to connect the two and provide a satisfactory outcome. Traditional Modems rely on dial-up networks to convert data between analog and digital forms, using a speaker that produces distinctive sounds to "alert" and then connect to the receiver, which is usually the computer.
To use a modem, it must follow a specific, universal step-by-step procedure to connect to the other modem, specifically when using a dialup modem. Both modems must agree on a wave speed to converse with one another - allowing data to be sent or received. This uniform way of reaching the other modem is called a Handshake.
Modulation is something that essentially changes the information’s waveform into something analog form. Therefore, demodulation is turning these analog signals back into digital form. Inside the Modem, two kinds of translators are used depending on what the correct procedure is needed to access the Internet. There is the modulator, and the demodulator, which is where the word modem developed from. These different ways of converting waveform are especially used to connect one’s computer to their Internet Service Provider.
There are also two kinds of modems: hardware and software modems. Hardware modems work by electronic components and chips in the external modem. One example of a hardware modem is a dialup modem - the universally used home phone. Software modems are popular with devices that have a smaller, limited storage space. They are downloaded softwares that are conveniently low-cost and simple to use.
Modems are not always needed, however, and the Internet can be simple accessed by an ethernet cable or wi-fi. The computer sends and receives information all digitally, so a modem is not needed to translate between the two waves. Most modern computers have an built-in modem that receives power from the motherboard, therefore a standalone modem is not always needed to connect.
Sources[]
https://www.explainthatstuff.com/modems.html
https://www.lifewire.com/what-is-a-modem-817861
https://www.scienceabc.com/innovation/what-is-a-modem-what-does-it-do-router-working.html