Basic Business Setup 177
CD-RWs can also serve a very important function for your computer system. You can use them to back up your data. (CD-RWs can be reused, similar to the old floppy discs.) The most important thing is to remember to back up your data.
Modems A modem is a technological device that links with the Internet and other computers or fax machines via telephone lines. A modem allows you to gain access to the Internet and send or receive a fax. Modem quality is a function of speed. Other technologies include cable, digital subscriber lines (DSL), or T1 lines. These usually create faster connections than do most modems. While DSL is faster than access through a regular dial modem, it still uses the telephone lines. Cable is becoming more widely available and is often more affordable than DSL. This is particularly true if you already subscribe to cable television. T1 lines are the fastest type of connection. They are ideal for selling over the Internet. They are also the most expensive. Unless your business is dependent on Internet sales, it may be unnecessary. One other important distinction between the various types of connections is whether you need to dial up to establish the connection each time you want to go online or whether the connection is constant. With a regular modem and DSL, you must dial up and establish a connection before you can transmit information. Although brief, you encounter a delay while the connection is established. With cable and T1 lines, the connection is constant so there is no need to dial up. You can transmit immediately.
Monitors Much like keyboards, monitors often come bundled in a computer package. Monitor quality is consistent enough to make it difficult to comparison shop based on quality alone. The size of the screen is often the most important variable. While a 15-inch monitor may be usable, you will appreciate a 17-inch monitor if you sit at your computer for long periods during your business day. Flat screen and LCD monitors are becoming more affordable and popular. In addition, a flat screen monitor takes up significantly less space on the top of your desk.