On Wednesday Apple refreshed its iMac G5 product line with sleeker, faster models that include built-in iSight webcams and remote controls for accessing video, music and photo content. They also quietly removed the 56K modem from these systems.
So what are users stuck with dialup connectivity or who require the ability to send or receive faxes from their Macs expected to do? Apple is offering a solution in the form of the US$49 USB modem, available for purchase through the Apple Store.
The one-piece external modem connects to the Macintosh using an available USB port. Once connected, you select the Network preference panel in System Preferences and enter the connection information for your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
The USB Modem works at data speeds up to 56Kbps and fax speeds up to 14.4Kbps and supports caller ID, wake on ring, telephone answering and modem on hold features. It also supports v.92 software.