The Diamond modem supplied came in a tasty ice blue transparent plastic, with appropriate status LED's, eat you heart out iMac! The version we received is now Diamond's flagship USB version. Based on a Rockwell chipset the modem was easy to setup connect the cables to your modem, and then connect the modem to your computer. Once you attach the cable to your computer, Windows will recognize the modem and request for a driver. Far cry from the old days when you had to set your own IRQ's and cross your fingers no conflicts occurred, and if they did then bang went the night out with your partner!

The Diamond modem is provided with a brief installation guide, and brief it is, do not hope for anymore than instructions on how to connect up. I suppose with USB you do not really need a bible to guide you through.

The software bundle supplied with the modem is Trio DataFax Voice with voice, fax and data is a powerful and sophisticated communications software package. It comes with an easy-to-use interface. Not only does Trio DataFax Voice allow you to send and receive faxes via your personal computer, but also answers your voice line and provides asynchronous access for data file transfer. And you can customise most features to suit your personal requirements. The software has an online guide to enable you to master the functionality of the software.

Average connection speed achieved was 47,333 bps, which is just above average for a 56k modem. The quality of the sound via the modem and its recorded message was about average, but good enough to receive and relay messages back to you. The unit cost is so little, considering the facilities available; it would be worth investing in one if you do not own one. Remember a modem is not only for the Internet, it can double up easy as your message recorder, and fax administrator.

The Diamond quality mark is one worth having when investing in a modem, as far as value for money goes, it is difficult not to recommend it, the Trio software is comprehensive and the price of the modem is tops at around £39.00 plus VAT. The Diamond ice blue maiden strolls away with our Value award.

Congratulations to Diamond on winning our One2surf Value Award!!

Prev