Need modem replacement for old controls system... model DT56010

[othersteve]

Hey guys,

Excuse my ignorance here, but I am looking to help a client who needs to replace some PCI modems in old control systems. I've asked plenty of questions but I haven't gotten any really helpful information about what type of OS the systems are running (presumably DOS).

The model number for the modems is DT56010 (originally brand ATech). There are lots of results searching for this on the 'net but I can't seem to find any to purchase. This leads me to believe that the model has almost certainly been discontinued, but I am concerned that purchasing a newer model model will not work due to driver limitations on these old systems. Plus, the modems apparently have to have certain features, such as IRQ jumper settings.

I guess what I'm asking is am I safe looking for modems with the same chipset for replacement? And if so, can anyone point me in the right direction?

Thanks!

[KompuKare]

PCI and IRQ jumpers is unlikely. Doing an image search shows up old ISA modems which makes a lot more sense. I cannot see how you can do anything without knowing the OS. If it's DOS it may be possible to use a PCI modem but it would have to be a proper one (not a WinModem) and I assume it would have to have DOS drivers too to initialize PCI and assign a COM port.

[othersteve]

I'll pry for more info then--I asked the guy to call me back with info on what the systems are running. Thank you for the advice!

[YeOldeStonecat]

The part number you listed shows at an ISA bus modem.
You can still get USR hardware controlled ISA modems....and Multitech ones.

I preferred to use external modems via serial port, the USB Couriers are solid for business use. 5686 a popular cheaper model. Multitech brand also did some good biz grade ones.

[strollin]

I second the use of external modems whenever possible. As long as the system has a working serial port, no drivers are needed. Many internal modems are what are called "Win Modems" because they only work with Windows so if you decide to go with another internal modem, make sure it's not dependent on Windows.

[othersteve]

Great idea. I'll recommend the use of an external modem then and we'll see where that gets us. I really just don't know all that much about this sort of hardware and configuration... primarily because I'm new-school and haven't dealt much with it.

Thanks again guys!

[crashtech]

Another nice thing about externals is there is no guesswork about whether or not the modem has its own DSP; by necessity they must, therefore they can't be a burden on an old machine's CPU.

[YeOldeStonecat]

Originally Posted by crashtech

Another nice thing about externals is there is no guesswork about whether or not the modem has its own DSP; by necessity they must, therefore they can't be a burden on an old machine's CPU.

"Most"....assuming 9 pin serial port. I've seen external USB "Winmodems".

"Winmodem" was a name coined by 3COM/USR. Sorta like "Xerox" for copy machines. "Soft modems", "software based modem"...is the more proper term.

[crashtech]

Got me there, I've never seen one of those critters.