Platform: PC
Manufacturer: 3Com

INTRODUCTION:

I must admit I was a bit skeptical when I first heard of 3Com's Internet Gaming Modem. I figured since I had already tweaked my modem settings, that this modem would be for those folks who haven't done so. Boy was I wrong! The 3Com Internet Gaming Modem is a 56k internal PCI unit that has two connection options, Internet and Gaming mode. To switch from mode to mode you simply double click on the icon it places in your system tray. Inside the box was the modem of course, warranty cards, installation guide and 3 CD's. One CD is the software for the modem, the other 2 were Activision games, Civilization and Heavy Gear II. You also have a form to receive yet another game free by choosing from a list along with a discount card for Quake Arena.

INSTALLATION:

Not a lot to say here since the modem is plug and play and it worked flawlessly. I wont bore you with how to remove your computers cover to do the install, but the instructions included are done in such a simple format that anyone who can operate a screw driver will have no problems. The only thing at this point that stuck out at me was the lack of a manual. Call me silly but as a consumer I have come to expect a manual with everything I buy. I just don't like PDF files and all that nonsense, if I have a question I like good old fashion paper to read. Once the modem is installed you need to install the software. Again, very simple as the install wizard takes control.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

The first thing you notice once installed and ready to connect is the icon in your system tray, a small image of a circuit board. The board indicates you are in "Internet" mode. Double click the icon and it changes to a image of a joystick, this indicates "gaming" mode is now activated. One important thing to know is you need to choose what mode you want PRIOR to connecting to your ISP. If you change the mode after connection, they will not take effect until you re-log on with your provider. My first connection was done in "Internet" mode. I noticed I was connected at 48000 bps. I reconnected a few times and this varied from 48000 to 49000 bps, not to bad at all. Now I switched over to "gaming" mode and connected. Hey....no more 48000 bps...reconnect again with the same lower results in the 30000 to 37000 bps range.

It appears when in gaming mode there are some commands being sent to the modem which is lowering your connection speed. As many of you know this can be a good thing. As an example we have heard from Papyrus that a 19400 connection is all thats required to run NASCAR 3. Most of us have also learned that by turning the modem connection speed down we eliminate retrains and compression resulting in a more stable connection.

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