You should choose a "Hayes-compatible" modem. This is the industry standard and works with most software. The modem is a small computer that responds to "AT" commands, commands sent by your software beginning with "AT" for "Attention Modem". The most common are "ATDT 1 800 555 1212". This tells your modem
So make sure the modem you buy responds to AT commands. A 2400 baud Hayes-compatible modem will cost about $50 by mail-order. You should consider buying a FAX modem ($350), however. The more expensive modem is faster, has more features, and can turn your computer into a FAX machine. Your connection to the outside world will never be any better than your modem allows, so buy a good one.
The FAXes can be displayed on your computer screen. You only print them if you want to, on an ordinary laser printer. The other features of a top of the line FAX modem include:
(1) Up to 14,440 baud rate (7 times faster than 2400 baud)
(2) Data compression (V.32bis is the name of the standard)
(3) Error correction (V.42bis is the name of the standard)
HOOKING UP THE MODEM
The modem goes between your computers serial (one-bit-at-a-time) communications port and your telephone line. Your modem probably included the right kind of cable. If not, check the manual or call the dealer who sold you the modem.
The modem to phone connection will use standard telephone cable with modular jacks on either end. You unplug your phone from the wall socket and plug in your modem instead. If you want to leave your phone, answering machine, fax machine, and so on plugged in, you can use dual plugs that allow one or more cord to be plugged into the same socket. Look on the bottom of each piece of equipment (including the modem). There should be a little sticker that tells how many ringer equivalents the equipment is worth. Don't exceed eight on any one phone line.
You can also buy inexpensive boxes that will let you use a single phone line for faxes and for voice.