Appendix B: How to get On-Line

APPENDIX B: How to get On-Line - More information

More about modems

A modem (modulator/demodulator) is the device which transfers computer (digital) signals into telephone (analogue) signals so that the information can pass over the phone line. At the other end it does the opposite - transfers phone signals back into computer signals.

Many new computers now come complete with an internal modem fitted inside. You can also buy an internal modem which can be installed in your existing computer. The phone line can then be connected directly into the back of your computer. An external modem is a small box which can be connected to your computer by a modem cable. This external modem is also connected to the phone line. A faxmodem can be used as an ordinary modem, but is also capable of sending and receiving fax messages on your computer.

In a school situation, an external modem is probably the better option as it can be used on different machines, or even at home by teachers with their own machines. Also, with the flashing status display lights on the front panel, children can actually see that there is something going on while data is being transferred.

Modem speeds are measured in bits per second (bps). The two most common types of modem in use are the V.32bis which has a speed of 14,400 bps (14.4 kbps), and the V.34 with a speed of 28,800 bps (28.8 kbps). While the 14.4 kbps modem will work fine, the 28.8 kbps modem will do the job quicker. Fortunately, the prices of 28.8 kbps modems have been coming down, and it is now possible to buy one in the £150 - £200 price range. 14.4 kbps modems can be bought for under £100.

More about phone lines

To connect to the Internet, you need a telephone line. For schools, if you intend using the Internet frequently, you will have to consider installing a separate phone line specifically for Internet use. This will incur an initial installation fee along with the monthly line rental.

If you wish to use the Internet on many machines simultaneously, you will have to consider a dedicated digital connection. An ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) line will give you speeds of 128,800 bps and will allow up to 100 machines to access the Internet at the same time. There is no need for a modem as the signals do not need to be changed. The high capacity of ISDN can accommodate video conferencing, if you have the necessary equipment and software. ISDN lines are available from Telecom Éireann. Unfortunately, they are still quite expensive and beyond the reach of many schools.

Phone costs

Unfortunately, schools have to use the Internet during the standard call rate period (8 am to 6 pm). Assuming that you have Internet access at local call rates, the unit fee is now 11.5p including VAT for each three minutes on-line. This works out at £2.30 per hour including VAT, (after 6 pm the cost is only 46p per hour). If you do not have local access, and have to pay the A rate, the cost is £6.21 per hour including VAT (£4.14 after 6 pm and 69p during the weekend). If you are using a separate telephone line for Internet access, the monthly rental works out at £12.10.

If you are careful, and use the Internet wisely, the phone costs can be kept quite low. Some days, you may only go on-line for a one unit period to check your mail and send messages that you have written off-line.

More about Internet Service Providers

To access the Internet, you need an account with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). They provide you with a dial-up account with E-mail, WWW, FTP, and other on-line services. They should also provide you with disk storage space on their server to host your Web pages. For schools in country areas, it is very important that the ISP can provide access within the local telephone area.

Fortunately for schools, some Irish ISPs are now offering free Internet access for schools. Normally, there is a charge of around £10 plus VAT per month for regular dial-up access.

Below is a list of the main Irish Internet Service Providers:

EUnet Ireland

http://www.eunet.ie

Tel: 01-6790832

Ireland On-Line

http://www.iol.ie

Tel: 01-8551739

Tel: 091-592727

Free unlimited access for schools and libraries.

Indigo

http://www.indigo.ie

Tel: 01-6046901