AOL MaxDSL limited speed if using a USB modem?

Draeger · 11 Jun 2006 at 19:44

Using a BT Voyager 105 USB modem under AOL MaxDSL.

According to various speedtests, like the ADSLGuide one, it never manages to get above 5Mb d/l speed.

So, quick question......is my auld 105 USB modem holding me back as far as speed goes?.

What should I buy if it is and want to up the speed?.

Duke · 11 Jun 2006 at 20:00

In theory USB2 would be more than fast enough (it's 480mbit) but actual speed is much lower than that. USB does use CPU power compared to a dedicated NIC which has it's own 'processor', therefore using NIC is preferred.
I would always recommend using a router anyway.. the equipment BT give you isn't going to be great, plus a router would have built in firewall and you don't need to install any software or 'connect' to DSL as it keeps you connected itself all the time.

tolien · 11 Jun 2006 at 20:33

Plus USB modems aren't USB2.
If you're synching at >5Mbps, and only getting 5Mbps, it's quite possible it's the modem. But as ever, without more detail it's impossible to say conclusively either way.

Draeger · 11 Jun 2006 at 20:45

What details from me would you reckon you would need m8?.

I have, in the taskbar, the green upload/download arrows which say:-

Tx:448 kbps
Rx: 8128 kbps

Here is an ADSL Guide speedtest I've just ran:-

http://www.adslguide.org.uk/tools/speedchart.asp?id=11500550719199151609

How do I find out what I'm synching at?.

derbyjake · 11 Jun 2006 at 20:49

Tx:448 kbps
Rx: 8128 kbps

Duke · 12 Jun 2006 at 07:23

tolien said:
Plus USB modems aren't USB2.

Didn't know that :eek:

CurlyWhirly · 12 Jun 2006 at 11:17

Duke said:
Didn't know that

AFAIK most USB modems are USB 1.1 (12 Mbps) :confused:

Duke · 12 Jun 2006 at 18:47

Since I've used Telewest cable for the last 5-6yrs, I didn't know

I assumed they would always be USB2.