New Modem (help me!)

[Majik]

Ok I'm not huge on the networking/internet thing.

I'm currently on Pipex 2MB(upgraded from 512k) ADSL. I have been using the same green flat fish looking alcatel speedtouch modem in all the time I have had it (about 3 years)

I get the impression although there wouldn't be a significant improvements I might be better off buying a better modem.

I recently read the following.

"PCI ADSL Modem
The cheapest way to get online with prices below £40. Requires knowledge of how to install into your computer, and is frequently referred to as an "internal" device. PCI modems deliver the best response times (gamers take note!) but also consume CPU cycles to operate."

That was over at ADSL guide our friendly website

Now I'm a bit of a online gamer I'm sure many on here are. Do a lot of you use PCI? and would you recomend it over a router/better cable modem?

If you could make suggestions that would help a lot.

Thanks,

Majik

 

[tolien]

If you're on Pipex ADSL, there's no cable modem involved.

You use PCI the same as you use any other PCI card. Windows sees it in the same way as the USB modem.
Debatable how much of an improvement it makes to latency or CPU load over a router, plus there's the same risk of dodgy drivers as USB.

Router on the other hand, is completely OS-agnostic, and not that expensive compared to a decent PCI modem.

 

[Zefan]

I would say it's really not worth it. Most (If not all) modems since 512 came in were designed to support 8mpbs iirc. If unsure, try to find out from box or someone else who has one.

 

[Majik]

Thanks guys, yeah it is designed to take up to 8mb internet but I'm just thinking surely there has been modem improvements in the 3 years time. The internet has come a long way.