Can I use dial-up with broadband modem

cyberstar

I’m planning to customize and buy a PC from Dell. I have the option to pay extra for a 56k modem which I assume is for dial-up use only. However, I am getting broadband so there is no need. But I was wondering if I did wanted to go back to dial up can I use my broadband modem for dial up use.

superscaper

As far as I know, no you can't, they're completely different systems, not sure how you'd even physically connect a broadband modem directly to the phone side of the phoneline.

espresso

A dial up modem is useful as a backup if your BB ISP goes down and it can also be used for fax's. A BB modem cannot connect to a dial up service.

nickmack

No, it won't work.

I can't think of many reasons why you'd want an analog modem unless it's for using as a fax.

superscaper

Completely agree with espresso, it's been ages since I used my modem but when we lost our broadband connection (won't get into how incompetant my isp was) the modem was absolutely invaluable and well worth having. In the same way I wouldn't feel comfortable not having a floppy drive but how often do most of us use those?

mcwarre

espresso wrote:

A dial up modem is useful as a backup if your BB ISP goes down and it can also be used for fax's. A BB modem cannot connect to a dial up service.

I must be the lucky one as I have never had BB go down. IMHO it is better to buy (and cheaper) an external modem rather than paying Dell to customize it. Once you've had BB you'll never go back.

DonnyDave

I would always have a dial-up modem for the following reasons:

• It is a back-up should broadband not work (whilst at home)
• It can be used whilst not at home (for a laptop)
• It acts as a fax machine.

superscaper

DonnyDave wrote:

I would always have a dial-up modem for the following reasons:

• It is a back-up should broadband not work (whilst at home)
• It can be used whilst not at home (for a laptop)
• It acts as a fax machine.

I'll add a point as well.
I've frequently moved to rented accomodation where there was no broadband for short term, so useful for temporary desktop measure as well. It's one of those things that seem pointless until you need it and then it's really critical.