Be aware that the modem drivers and FAX software are continually being updated for better compatibility and to fix bugs. Modem name brands to look for areGlobal Village, Supra and US Robotics. All have models ranging from affordable to expensive. Motorola makes high speed, expensive modems for critical uses. Avoid these brands unless you know that you will never need software upgrades or support.
Every modem has some programming inside it to make it work.
The best modems have this program code in a Flash ROM chip which can be updated just by sending the new code to the modem from your computer. Modems without a Flash ROM can only have their ROM code updated by physically removing and replacing the ROM chip in the modem. If it isn'tyou may not get a reliable connection, and you certainly won't reach the speed potential of the modem. When it's a GeoPort,Apple's multi-purpose communications connector on Quadra AV models and PowerMacs. The GeoPort doesn't have a modemcommunications chip in it, instead it relies on the processing power of the Quadra's AV DSP chip or the PowerMac'sPowerPC chip to do the grunt work.