[comp.dcom.modems] multi-line modem wanted for Unix workstation

pbickers@groucho (10/31/90)

I'm running a Unix workstation (specifically a Mips Magnum 3000, RISCos 4.51)
as a small departmental server and am seeking a modem that would allow users
to dial-in from home. I'm also seeking (lots of) advice.

It is desirable that more than one person at a time be able to communicate
with the server; 2 should be adequate, 4 would be ample. Is this possible?
Does it require a special phone line or are there intelligent modems that can
handle this? Is a fan modem what I'm after? Are there other kinds of solution
that I should be considering?

We have a serial port with modem control and expect incoming rather than
outgoing calls to be the pattern of usage since we are on Internet. Typically
I anticipate a user at home initiating an interactive session on the Magnum
or using the Magnum to telnet into the Cray at San Diego (and thereby avoiding
the toll call from home).

What compatibility issues should I be concerned with? PEP? V.32? Do I want 
both? One user currently has a 2400 baud modem at home. What are the chances
that his modem won't be able to comunicate with this one? Ideally I assume
that I'd like to have a modem that would be capable of at least 9600 baud.

Answers to the above, and any further advice, would be much appreciated. 
(Please keep it simple; I'm a mere academic lumbered with the job of sys adm.)

***Also I'd like names, addresses and phone nos of suppliers, their prices and
warranties plus any comments on the quality of their products. ***

Please e-mail, I'll summarize if there's interest.

-- 
Paul Bickerstaff                 Internet: pbickers@neon.chem.uidaho.edu
Physics Dept., Univ. of Idaho    Phone:    (208) 885 6809
Moscow ID 83843, USA             FAX:      (208) 885 6173