Accordingly, distributor Drive Control Corporation (DCC) has expanded its range of Microcom networking solutions to include ADSL modems.

Says Pierre Holtzhausen, networking specialist at DCC: "It made sense to expand our existing range of Microcom solutions, as its line of ADSL and ISDN modems allows us to bolster our SME business. As with any new technology, ADSL pricing was initially a prohibiting factor. As the technology has become more widely adopted, Microcom has actively led the price decrease. Its entry level modem/router now costs the end-user approximately R350, a significant drop from the approximately R1 500 that a similar ADSL modem/router might have cost two years ago."

The entry level model, the AD2622, does not feature Ethernet connectivity but includes USB connectivity, he adds. This modem is designed to makes downloading games and movies easier and to feature ease of connectivity with its plug ‘n play installation. The installation wizard software further simplifies installation.

In addition, flash memory aims to allow for simple firmware updates.

The AD2636 model is a single port Ethernet router and is a universal solution to connect either one PC or an entire LAN to broadband Internet through ADSL, DCC says. The AD2656 is a four-port Ethernet router that features simple set-up and simplified management through a Web browser, the company adds.

The Microcom range of ADSL modems/routers also includes USB connectivity with its one- and four-port versions, in addition to the obligatory Ethernet connectivity and a firewall to bolster security, Holtzhausen continues. The AD2636 and AD2656 models feature switchable functionality to Annex A and Annex B (Annex A is used in SA) and 'bridge mode and VPN support'.

To conclude this range, Microcom offers a four-port wireless ADSL modem/router with USB connectivity and a firewall, aiming to allow users to connect the entire Local Area Network (LAN) to broadband Internet with the ADSL 2/2+ technology and transmission speeds of up to 54Mbps with Wi-Fi.