Q&A: Anybody know where I can get an external broadband modem?
Question by aleksanderloesch: Anybody know where I can get an external broadband modem?
Hi all, ive just bought a laptop, and it lacks a modem socket. Does anybody know of an external modem unit, in which I can plug in the modem cord, and then connect it to my laptop via USB?
It is a broadband internet connection that I have, so it needs to be compatible with that!
Cheers!
Best answer:
Answer by kd8bvw@sbcglobal.net
It sounds like you need an NIC, not a modem. Or look for a PCMIA network card that you can use. You can find those at most computer stores. I take it that this is an older laptop.
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Unless it is an old laptop, it may already have wireles option built in (but you may need to turn this on via a physical switch or some function key combination).
As for connecting it to your laptop, then while it is possible to connect two machines by USB, you might find it cheaper and easier to use ethernet (RJ45) cables especially if your internet connection kit (eg router) has 4 ethernet sockets on the back.
It might be better to mention your ISP and what router model you have, since “broadband” includes Virgin (cable) and ADSL (phone line to your ISP eg BT/ Tiscali/ TalkTalk/ etc)
You say you lack a modem socket. There is no such thing.
I suspect you mean it lacks a wired network adapter that would permit you to connect a CAT5 cable from laptop to the wired network. If this is the case, check and see if the laptop has a pcmcia slot as it most likely does. If so, then purchase a pcmcia network adapter card; it goes in the slot and after drivers are loaded it enables you to log onto the network. There are also USB – network adapters but use the pcmcia style if you have a pcmcia slot as they tend to be much more reliable.
If you need or want a wireless adapter instead, see about a wireless pcmcia or wireless USB adapter. After loading driver and configuring the wireless for your use you can link onto your wireless network (if you have a wireless network).
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp?skuId=8339274&st=pcmia+card&lp=2&type=product&cp=1&id=1177112313331