Re-experience '90s internet with this new 56K dial-up modem
Planex Communications' new PL-US56K2(A) USB modem just hit the market.
The opposite of cutting-edge: It's the era of 5G and gigabit-speed internet, and dial-up connections are dead in most places. However, that hasn't stopped a Japanese company from rolling out a brand-new 56K modem for anyone still relying on ancient copper phone lines to surf the web.
Planex Communications' new PL-US56K2(A) USB modem just hit the market. For around $40 on Amazon, this retro device connects to your PC via USB, allowing you to access analog phone lines for internet connectivity, data transfers, and even fax capabilities.
Sure, the speeds are laughably slow by modern standards, with a theoretical maximum of 56 Kbps for downloads. But hey, they should still allow you to browse Gmail – though you'd likely have been better off switching to the basic HTML version if Google hadn't killed it off earlier this year.
Planex states that the modem complies with the 56K ITU-T standard recommendations and supports the V.90 and V.92 protocols. It's also designed to be plug-and-play with the latest versions of Windows, meaning you can simply connect it to your USB port without needing to install drivers. Its compact size (25mm x 75mm x 18mm) and lightweight design (just 28 grams) make it easy to stow away, too.
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What is Planex Communications
Planex Communications was a US-based company that was founded in 1993 by a group of entrepreneurs who saw an opportunity to create innovative computer peripherals and networking equipment. Here's a more detailed look at the company's history:
Early Years (1993-1996)
Planex Communications was founded in 1993 by a group of entrepreneurs who had a passion for technology and a vision for creating innovative computer peripherals and networking equipment. The company's early focus was on developing and marketing peripheral products such as speakers, microphones, and webcams. Planex's products were designed to be compact, affordable, and easy to use, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers and small businesses.
During its early years, Planex Communications faced significant competition from established players in the computer peripheral market. However, the company's commitment to innovation and quality helped it to differentiate itself from its competitors and establish a loyal customer base.
Expansion into Networking Equipment (1996-2000)
In the mid-1990s, Planex Communications began to expand its product line to include networking equipment, including routers, switches, and modems. The company's networking products were designed to be compact, affordable, and easy to use, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers and small businesses.
Planex's networking equipment was particularly notable for its innovative design and features. For example, the company's first router, the Planex PTE-1000, was one of the first routers to feature a built-in web server, allowing users to access their router's configuration page via a web browser.
Innovative Products (2000-2004)
During the late 1990s and early 2000s, Planex Communications continued to innovate and expand its product line. The company developed a range of other peripherals, including speakers, microphones, and printers.
One of Planex's most notable products was the Planex PTE-1000 USB webcam, which was one of the first webcams to use a USB connection. The webcam was designed to be compact, easy to use, and affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of consumers.
Merger with Diamond Multimedia (2004)
In 2004, Planex Communications merged with Diamond Multimedia to form Diamond Multimedia, Inc. As part of the Merger, Planex's product line was integrated into Diamond's existing product portfolio.
The merger provided Planex Communications with access to Diamond's extensive resources and expertise, allowing the company to expand its product line and reach new customers. However, it also marked the end of Planex Communications as an independent company.
Legacy (2005-Present)
Although Planex Communications is no longer an independent company, its legacy lives on in the form of its innovative products and technology. Many of Planex's products are still widely available and used by consumers and businesses today.
Planex's innovative products and technology have had a lasting impact on the computer peripheral and networking equipment markets. The company's commitment to innovation and quality helped it to establish a loyal customer base and differentiate itself from its competitors.
Today, Planex Communications is a subsidiary of Diamond Multimedia, Inc., and its products are no longer manufactured or sold under the Planex brand. However, the company's history and contributions to the development of computer peripherals and networking equipment continue to be remembered and celebrated by many in the industry.