January 2002 Value Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 7

Communications Device

For our Value Gaming PC, you're going to have to make the tough choice between adding a modem or NIC, since the budget simply doesn't allow for both.

Creative Labs Modem Blaster 56K: $28

For the choice of modem, the basic goal is to select a name brand part with hardware support for V.90/56K access. The Creative Labs Modem Blaster 56K more than fits the bill and with all the consolidation in the modem market, about the only better bet for support is to ante up and go with 3COM/USR. Taking the PCI route is also important; both because it saves a bit of coin over an external unit and the majority of new motherboards do not even include an ISA slot. We recommend staying away from Winmodem models, not simply because of the extra CPU load, but also due to driver dependency that may limit future migrations to new operating systems (like Windows XP) or alternative products such as Linux. Stay on the hardware-Hayes compatible list and play safe.

Or...

NIC-3Com EtherLink 10/100 3C905C-TX-M- $28

If you're looking for some high-speed DSL or Cable Internet lovin', then buying an NIC will be a requirement. 3COM is the name in home networking equipment, and produces some of the very best and most compatible network cards you can find. The 3C905C-TX-M is an excellent NIC pick, as its price is equitable to other brands, but you get the 3COM performance and compatibility basically for free. As with our modem choice, PCI is really the only way to go, since it is best to not get saddled with an older ISA network card and then discovering your new motherboard no longer supports it.