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Introduction The International Telecommunications Union (ITU) has approved a draft recommendation 56K modem technology. The ITU standard is expected to be ratified in September of 1998. Previously known as V.pcm for "pulse code modulation," the implementation of this standard will be known as V.90. V.90 will signify interoperability among the various 56K technology modems. Modems based on different types of technologies will now be able to communicate and exchange data. Frequently Asked Questions Q1: What can a consumer expect now that a preliminary standard has been approved? ANS: An alliance from the modem industry to achieve interoperability among PCM modems. In an effort to satisfy consumers needs, Lucent has been conducting interoperability tests in anticipation of this new standard. Q2: Is "V.90" a further refinement of K56flex? ANS: Yes. K56flex "V.90" compliant modems will continue to deliver all the advantages of faster web browsing plus the ability to interoperate among various other 56K technology modems. Q3: Will "V.90" modems interoperate with analog modems like V.34? ANS: Yes. Since K56flex "V.90" compliant modems maintain the basis of K56flex it will interoperate with V.34, K56flex, and V.90 compliant analog modems. (Lucent/3com V.90 Press Release) Q4: Will an upgrade to "V.90" be available for previously purchased K56flex modems? ANS: Yes. Lucent is currently working on developing software to enable consumers to participate in the advantages of "V.90" if they so desire. Please check with your modem manufacturer to make certain. Q5: Will K56flex modem still work after my ISP upgrades to V.90 ? ANS: Yes. The majority of Internet head-end equipment manufacturers will continue to support the ISPs with K56flex technology as well as with V.90. Most ISPs will continue to support K56flex to ensure that their customers that want to continue to connect to the Internet with K56flex may due so without interruption. Q6: If I buy a K56flex modem today, what will it cost to upgrade it to V.90 when it is available? ANS: Nothing. Most modem manufacturers have announced that they will supply the V.90 software upgrade to their customers that buy K56flex modems free of charge (K56flex Press Releases). Please check with the modem manufacturer before you buy it to be sure. Q7: Will my K56flex modem connect to an X2 ISP after I upgrade it to V.90? ANS: Yes if the ISP also supports V.90. Lucent based K56flex/V.90 modems will be able to connect to the 3Com/USR Internet head-end modem equipment that has been upgraded with V.90. Q8: How do I get V.90 service? ANS: First, either buy a V.90 compliant modem (Lucent Based V.90 Modem Manufacturers) or upgrade your existing K56flex modem by contacting your modem manufacturer or visit Upgrade Central. Next, you need to check that your ISP is currently offering V.90 service. You can use the K56flex ISP Search Engine to locate your ISP or search for a new ISP that offers V.90 service. The ISP will supply you with a phone number to call that supports V.90. In most cases, the V.90 phone number will be the same as the K56flex phone number. Q9: Where can I buy a V.90 modem?
ANS: Retail and on-line stores. The majority of K56flex modem manufacturers are already or soon
will be selling V.90 modems. The Lucent based V.90 modems will continue to support K56flex and V.34 as well
V.90 to give you the best connectivity possible. Check to make certain that your modem has this
capability to insure that you can connect to the ISP of your choice
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