Newly manufactured card modems are all standard unit V.90 or V.92 — or modems that allow for speeds of 56 Kbps using an analog phone line through Internet service providers. You have to have a modem if you're trying to connect through a phone line because it transmits encoded, digital information and reproduces it into original data for your PC or laptop. There are many options for how your modem card can connect to your computer — it could be through a USB port or a serial port — but a new card modem should be relatively low-cost and provide a strong connection.

First consider which type of computer modem card will be right for you:

1. Internal computer modem cards

2. An external modem card

3. Modem cards for desktop or notebook computers

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find an internal computer modem card company with solid customer service

If you're looking for an internal modem card, you'll have to be knowledgeable enough about your system to install it directly onto your computer's motherboard unless you pay a service to do it for you. And, if you're using Windows 95 or any newer operating system, your computer should automatically detect the newly installed modem. A reputable provider will offer customer service to help install internal card modems.

I recommend: Provantage offers fast order processing and direct links to manufacturer pages for installation and troubleshooting assistance. Alan CompuTech International sells both individual and bulk internal modem cards.

Get connected quickly with an external modem card

External card modems could be what you need if you want to avoid the hassle of installation. With one line running from the computer to the modem and the other running from the modem to the phone 'jack' or line, set up is simple.

I recommend: A discount computer super store, Directron.com offers wholesale products and the ability to order securely and track shipments online. ICT company also sells external card modems and secure ordering as well as a 30-day guarantee on all products.

Find information about the PC card modem you need online

You can find a PC card modem as easily as internal or external modem cards -- they have the same basic function. You can also go a step further and buy a wireless modem card for your notebook or desktop to send and receive data via a wireless network. A notebook modem card will let you access the Internet, update business documents and check email wirelessly.

I recommend: Try Syncrotech.com for basic PC card modems. AT&T offers high-end pc card modems for on-the-go lifestyles. Find out about more about the convenience of their wireless mobility options.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Before you buy any kind of card modem hardware, make sure there is an Internet service provider in your area. Though many ISPs boast large coverage areas, there are still rural areas that offer no connectivity at all.