USR equips 56-kbps providers
U.S. Robotics is now shipping 56-kbps technology from its MP I-Modem and NetServer line for online service providers and corporate networks.
U.S. Robotics (USR) says that the NetServer modem pools and remote access servers can now accept calls from modems using the company's x2 technology, which offers increased download speeds over 28.8-kbps modems, as well as analog and ISDN modems.
The company claims that the NetServer products allow small- to medium-sized service providers to inexpensively upgrade to 56-kbps technology. This is because the NetServer products can be connected to an ISDN Basic Rate Interface line, which can be a more cost-effective option for a service provider than Primary Rate Interface lines or T1 lines, according to USR.
Increasing the use of its back-end equipment is important to USR as 56-kbps technology from Rockwell or Lucent Technologies doesn't interoperate with x2. Users must connect to a service provider using compatible technology in order get the faster speeds, so gaining the support from all shapes and sizes of service providers will be as necessary as selling x2 modems to customers.
USR says the NetServer I-Modems are remote access servers that come in 8- or 16-port versions; the MP I-Modems also come in 8- or 16-port versions. The x2 technology is being included at no extra charge.
Customers who purchased NetServer I-Modems or MP I-Modems after October 1 can download a free software upgrade to x2, while those who purchased their products prior to October 1 can get the upgrade for $495 for an 8-port product and $990 for a 16-port product.