How a Wireless Modem Works

Wireless modems help PC users connect wirelessly to the internet.

Computer users often connect their PCs to a network for added functionality, communication and a connection to the internet. This network connection may be established by means of a wireless modem.

Internet Connection

Wireless modems are typically manufactured as both modems and routers combined in one unit. A wireless modem may used to establish a wireless connection between a computer and the Internet. A router is a device responsible for forwarding packets, or groups, of information between networks, such as a home network and global network like the Internet. The wireless router sends signals out to transmit this information. The wireless modem receives this information and sends the signal to the PC user's ISP (Internet Service Provider) via satellite to gain permission to acess the internet.

Range

Wireless moden uses radio signals to establish a network connction, but may only do so within a specific range of the radio signals. This allows PC users to wirelessly operate their computers up to approximately 1300 feet away from the modem. Wirelessly operated computers may also establish WiFi, or Wireless Fidelity internet connections in other networks.

Interfaces

Wireless modems may interface, or communicate, with computers via Compact Flash, Serial Ports or USBs (Universal Serial Ports). Wireless modems may also attach directly to a computer device such as a PDA.

References

• TopBits.com: Wireless Modems
• "Home Networking: The Missing Manual"; Scott Lowe; 2005

Resources

• "The Modem Reference: The Complete Guide to PC Communications"; Michael A. Banks; 2000