TELECOM Moderator <telecom@eecs.nwu.edu> (06/02/91)
The Digest is now being produced each day using a new Telebit T-1600 modem. This 9600 baud model has a number of nice features, including callback security, error checking, v.32 compatibility and other things. Since most of the time the modem will be in interactive use; i.e. me at the terminal, typing in messages, editing other messages, etc, some aspects of the unit are not needed, such as Data Compression. But the big thing -- the most important from my point of view -- is the fourfold increase in speed where screen refreshes are concerned. I use Emacs to edit the Digest, and mmdf for the mail. The constant redrawing of the screen by the editor took a lot of time in the past. Now the redrawing is instant, as is the listing of messages in the queue. Previously, a list of several dozen messages to be reviewed took several seconds each time it was presented. This is no longer the case. It is just like being in the terminal room at NWU. The modem interfaces with my terminals (Wyse 50's) at 38,400 baud, so everything is now moving very fast and smooth. Baud rate selection is automatic, so the modem fits right in when calling other places at a slower speed. No baud rate adjustment by me is required. Also, an S-register allows automatic dialing of a preselected number whenever DTR goes high, or by pushing a single button on the front panel which is a nice convenience also. The modem was loaned to me for use with the Digest by two regular readers who suggested I leave their name out of print, and I am honoring their request ... but I want to publicly say thanks; and they will know who they are! PAT