Apple Macintosh 6500 - Manual (Page 86)

86 Chapter 6
Types of equipment
There are three types of equipment you can use to get online: a
modem, an ISDN line, and shared telecommunications equipment on
your network.
Modem: A modem may be the most common way to connect a
computer to a phone line, particularly if you are using your computer at
home. A modem works with standard analog telephone lines. To add a
modem to your computer, you can install a modem card in your
computer’s communication slot or connect an external modem. For
more information about modems, see the next section, “Choosing and
Connecting a Modem.”
ISDN line: An Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) line is a
special digital phone line that is about four times faster than the fastest
modem used over a standard analog telephone line. However, an ISDN
line typically costs more than regular phone service and may not be
available in your community. For more information about ISDN, see
“Connecting to an ISDN Line” later in this chapter.
Shared Telecommunications Equipment on Your Network: Many models of
your computer come with an Ethernet card, allowing you to connect to
a network. If your computer is part of a network, there may be shared
communications equipment available that will allow you (or anyone
else on your network) to get online. Contact your computer network
administrator for more information. You can also find general
information about networks in Chapter 7, “Connecting Your Computer
to a Network.”