Easy to Use but is the Quality there?
Written: Nov 06 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Quality in almost all facets of the product
Cons: Flimsy Case makes it less than ideal for travel
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| OpalMan's Full Review: 3Com U.S. Robotics Faxmodem 56K Analog Modem (81-0... |
As usual, this is a product I have some experience with from my job. We use several of these modems both in the main building and when we send employees out for Car Sales and the like.
PRICE
First let's tackle the issue of price. Yes, they are a little more expensive than most of the other modems available today. However, it has been my experience and in this case it seems to be true, you definitely get what you pay for. Whether the difference is in the quality of the product or the quality of the Customer Service you do pay for it in the end.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Everyone who has read any of my reviews knows how I feel about Customer Service. It is one of the most important aspects of dealing with a company. 3Com has in no way let me down here. I have not had to call very often. Once for a bad cd and once for a cracked case. In both instances their customer service was impeccable. Both courteous and prompt, they far exceeded my expectations for a company of their size.
EASE OF USE
This is definitely one of the easiest modems to install and operate, it is a lot closer to plug and play than to plug and pray. I actually had one of my front end users set one up on their computer without any assistance at all. This goes a long way with me in supporting both their ease of use and their documentation.
QUALITY OF The TECHNOLOGY
I had to break this one up a little bit. I would have just done a section on quality but there is more than one aspect and they are worlds apart. The technological aspect and functionality of this product is without reproach. It functions flawlessly with minimal need for maintenance.
QUALITY OF PRODUCT
As I said, the quality aspect has two sides. The internal, which is flawless and the external, which leaves much to be desired. The case to these modems is extremely flimsy. It appears to be held together by a mere two screws. With very little effort, one can pry it apart with their bare hands. It is not very durable for travel either. When we send it out to the car sales, we have to send a spare just to be safe.
Overall, if you are looking to use your modem in an office environment or at home away from kids and want the best quality you can get, this is the modem for you. If you are travelling, have kids or are in a less than ideal environment, you may want to look elsewhere. I can definitely say that 3Com probably cost themselves a share of the market for the sake of saving the expense of two additional screws. We have gone to using Motorola for the Car Sales as the 3Coms break as they are much more durable and aren't afraid to use 4 screws on the case.
Recommended:
Yes
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