Re: Need Advice...

Stefan Hudson (hudson@mbay.net)
Wed, 27 Aug 1997 17:03:51 -0700 (PDT)

> Hello,
> Would like some advice on something if possible. We just started an ISP a
> few onths ago, and have completely filled a PM2-30e to keep our user/modem
> ratio ntact. We would like to ge another PM, but here is the tough decision
> part. ould it be better to get another PM2-30e to tide us over, or just
> take dvantage of the PM3's cost and get that now? Is there enough demand
> for 56k yet o go with a PM3? And, in winter, does the user signup increase
> or decrease? hanks for your time..
> Omni

The major issue is the cost of digital phone lines in your area. The
PM3 is a much better machine, and digital modems are far superior to analog
modems, even if you're not doing 56K. They are totally managable, which
means you can check the status remotely, and it is nearly impossible to
get a "bad modem" without knowing it; if the system detects a bad modem,
it will automatically busy it out. Also, you can tell your customers with
100% certainty that if they are having connection problems, it is on their
end; either thier phone line or their modem, since digital lines are
error-free (or if you do get errors, they will affect ALL channels).

If you decide not do go with digital equipment, look out for used equipment;
with Livingston's new pricing, a lot of ISPs will be selling off old analog
equipment.

-- 
     /// Stefan Hudson <hudson@mbay.net>  
__  /// Senior Network Administrator - Monterey Bay Internet
\\\/// http://www.mbay.net/  -  Email: info@mbay.net
 \XX/ Voice: 408-642-6100  Fax: 408-642-6101  Modem: 408-642-6102