Acorp modems are the optimal solution for tasks of any complexity. Acorp WR300N router: connection and configuration Additionally: viewing IP-TV on a wireless network

Acorp Company for a long time was a leader in the supply of OEM devices to operators and providers in Russia. Wireless routers from this company are represented on our market by two 100-megabit models: WR300N and WR150N (from the first - they differ only in lower wi-fi speed). We will consider the “senior” model WR300N. In fact, WR-N series routers are equipped with everything necessary to create home network functions, and only setting up the Acorp router may seem somewhat “unusual” (perhaps this is the main and only drawback). Let's take a closer look.

Configuration is carried out via the web interface. Connect the router with a patch cord (included with the device) to the PC’s network card. In this case, any port except WAN is used. Then, turn on the power to the router.

Before configuration, the PC network card must be in “automatic” IP address and DNS mode:

To do this, you configure the local connection properties (as in the figure above).

Setting up an acorp router

Configure the PC card as described above. After turning on the power of the router, you need to wait 2-3 minutes. Then, open any browser. In the address line - you type: 192.168.1.1

You will be asked to enter your Login and Password (Admin and Admin are suitable). Any Acorp router, modem, that is, anything that has a web interface, allows entry using this password.

Setting up an Internet connection (DHCP protocol)

Go to the first tab (Operation Mode):

Check that AP-Gateway is selected (that is, “router” mode). If not, select it and click “Apply”. Go to “Internet Settings” (“WAN Setup” tab):

Configure as in the figure (type – DHCP, MTU – auto, Enable NAT – yes). Click Apply. Now, a connection to your provider is created automatically.

To save all settings, you go to the “Administration” section, on last tab(“Save and Reboot”):

If we skip this step, during the next boot, the router will “forget” the settings we made. At this point, setting up the router for a “DHCP” connection is complete.

Setting up an Internet connection (PPPoE with dynamic address)

Follow everything above (except for the last step to save your settings). Next, go to the "VPN Setup" tab (located in "Internet Settings"):

Inside the first (top) block, basic information about the connection is entered (Username, Password). Don’t forget to select “client PPPoE” in the first line, and WAN port in the second line.

Bottom block – configure as in the figure (all checkboxes are “on”, except the first two). This completes the setup. Click "Apply and Connect".

Don’t forget, when you exit the interface, save the settings made here (section “Administration”, last tab).

Note: setting up “under PPPoE + static IP” is similar, only on the “WAN Setup” tab, you select the “static” IP mode (and set the IP address).

We have fully covered how to configure the Acorp router to connect to your provider.

MAC address cloning

If you intend to change the hardware MAC address "visible" on the "WAN" port, you need to perform several steps.

Administration section

Go to the “Administration” section, then go to the tab system commands. The text of the commands (that is, the executable code) will be as follows:

• nvram_set 2860 CHECKMAC NO
• #this is in the first line, and then:
• nvram_set 2860 WAN_MAC_ADDR 00:AA:BB:CC:DD:EE
• #instead of 00:AA..., substitute “your” MAC
• Click Apply. Save your settings.

The Acorp WR300N universal wifi router includes an access point operating in 2x2 mode (2 antennas and 2 transmitters, up to 300 Mbit/s). Setting up wi-fi– absolutely “standard” (done on one tab), and the choice of transmitter power (provided here) can be very useful.

Go to the “Basic” tab, “Wireless Settings” section. The first checkbox is set to “Enabled” (that is, “turn on” the wi-fi network):

Create a name for your network (SSID). Set the mode (b/g or n, preferably “mixed”). The maximum connection speed is achievable in “n-only”. The rest can be left as default. Click Apply.

The “Operating Mode” -> “Greenfield” mode can be used only if there are no other access points nearby (or there are, but they also have “Greenfield” enabled).

Go to the "Advanced" tab.

Here, the required “power” is selected (as a percentage of the maximum). Set the value, click "Apply".

Settings wifi router acorp to operate the network “without encryption”, and this is complete. You can enable encryption (set the key and select the mode) - then, on the “Security” tab:

Before exiting the interface, save the settings (by going to the “Save and Reboot” tab, in the “Administration” section).

Additionally: watching IP-TV on a wireless network

There is a problem: as soon as you turn on the IP-TV player on one of the PCs in local network, other devices work slower. Each Akorp router (300N, 300NU and 150N) solves this problem in the following way: the traffic of IP-TV packets can be artificially reduced.

Go to the “Advanced” tab, to the “Wireless Settings” section. In the lower block, we see:

Here, you need to select “Multicast TX Rate”. Value – it is better to set it to “half” (or “two thirds”) of the average values bandwidth wi-fi connections. Click Apply. Save your settings.

Note: if you select “0”, “multicast” traffic is completely absent (watching IP-TV over wi-fi is not possible).

• For “720p” video – 2 Megabits/s or more;
• For Full-HD video – 6-7 Megabit/s.

Basic router setup

In the first part of our review, we introduced readers to two internal Acorp modems designed for use on PCI bus. In addition, issues related to software and support for these modems, but they were not fully disclosed. Now is the time to consider external models. In addition to technical specifications and design features modems, we will talk about alternative software and firmware update options, as well as finding additional information.

Acorp 56K EUS

The appearance of this modem caused sincere bewilderment, primarily associated with its overall dimensions and the shape of the case. From a distance it may seem that this is an ordinary mouse - the body is so similar in size and “streamliner”. This is its main advantage. Now you can easily put the external modem in your pocket or handbag, transfer it to any computer and connect it using just one cord to communicate with the USB controller. Agree it’s convenient. And if you consider that previously an external modem also required a power supply in addition to itself to be carried, then this is doubly convenient. There remains, however, one more item necessary for carrying - a disk with modem drivers. By the way, they take up little space, and therefore a regular floppy disk will be quite enough. As a result, the user received a mobile external modem.

First meeting

The retail delivery set is standard: the modem itself, a disk with drivers and related software, a cord for connecting to USB, a telephone cord, and brief instructions by connecting to computers equipped with a Windows operating system. All components of the kit comply with current RosTest standards and are certified.

There are no external controls as such. There is no need for a power switch because the USB connection is safe even when the computer is on. Indication LEDs do not indulge in redundancy. There are only two of them. One lights up when the modem is detected by the system and is ready for use, the second when the connection is established. By the way, the modem board provides the ability to connect two more LEDs, but the manufacturers apparently considered their installation unnecessary or a violation of the overall design. For experienced users, it is possible to change the purpose of each diode and program it for any event (“line”, “data transfer”, etc.).

Acorp56K EUS modems are highly selective in the choice of associated hardware and operating system. IN currently there are drivers for almost any system Windows type with USB support, although drivers for very ancient versions of NT4 and Windows 95 have fallen out of sight of developers. Using the modem in conjunction with other operating systems, such as Linux, is problematic, since drivers for them have not yet been created, although developments in this direction are underway .

Specifications

The technical characteristics of the modem are not very different from other similar HCF class ones, however, the innovation in the form of the use of USB has added an individual stamp. The modem is capable of operating on all modern communication protocols, including the newfangled V.92 and V.44. Applying compression using the V.44 protocol requires changing the speed of the COM port, which, in turn, is implemented as a virtual one. This means that there are no special restrictions inherent in hardware modems. It is important that your operating system can communicate with such a port. However, if we are talking about restrictions, then we should immediately identify them. The main thing is the type of processor used in the computer. At a minimum, it should be no worse than the Pentium II 300 MHz, but in practice it is desirable to have a faster one. Any HCF modems using USB are really critical to CPU and operating system load. Therefore, Conexant itself has introduced these application limits; otherwise, reliable operation of the modem cannot be guaranteed.

Compression protocols:

V.44, V.42bis, MNP5

Error correction protocols:

Modem circuitry

The modem uses a main RHP56D chip and an auxiliary 11247-11 chip.

The installation is compact, double-sided and neat, which is an indispensable condition for devices of this type. The board provides the ability to install either an optoelectronic dial-up relay or a reed switch. The required option is determined by the manufacturing company itself, and it may depend on the design of manufacturing processes, the availability of certain elements in the warehouse, internal policies, etc. The schematic diagram of the input circuits is shown below.

In it, as in the previously presented circuits, there are no special frills, but protection against overloads is provided for the maximum possible current and voltage. Despite the fact that the board has spaces for installing a paired RJ-11 connector, the modem has a single connector. This may create initial difficulties for those who want to connect a parallel telephone directly to the modem. A commercially available RJ-11 socket splitter can be a way out. Please note that the phone will not be switched off during the communication session. The input circuits are made according to a classical transformer isolation circuit. The transformer is filled with compound, and therefore one can only make assumptions about its true overall dimensions. However, tests using measuring equipment complexes from Analyst TC have shown that it is on these modems that the input circuits are designed most optimally and do not create additional loads on the telephone line.

Modem features

• Acorp 56K EUS modems are built using the technology of controllerless modems of the HCF type. This means that the modem depends on the driver used in the operating system. A DSP signal processor is installed in the modem itself, but the functions of a controller or supervisor are performed by the corresponding driver.
• Number of adjustments for setting up a specific line is very large, but they are hidden from the user’s eyes in Windows registry. The suggested registers and commands may not be enough, so those who want to achieve the most effective results will sooner or later have to worry about learning the regedit.exe program.
• On the modem there are no jacks for connecting an external headset for the purpose of using a speakerphone (telephone). This is the only limitation on the implementation of the modem's capabilities in voice mode. You can implement an answering machine or a software caller ID. You just need to pay attention to whether the driver you are using supports voice command mode.
• The modem has the ability display of statistical data after the communication session. The statistics issued by the AT#UG and AT#UD commands are large and allow you to analyze in detail the operation of the modem and the state of the communication line. And by a very high level, characteristic of higher-class modems. However, this standard feature, embedded by the chip manufacturer in any modems, regardless of their price category.
• Not included in the modem additional USB controller to communicate with other clients of this bus. But such an operation would inevitably lead to an increase overall dimensions. Therefore, in a line of serially connected USB devices, the modem should be connected last.
• Modem can be localized for use in Russian conditions , but for this you need to select the appropriate drivers. These are not included in the package, but at the end of the article we will tell you where they can be found.
• Issues of modem operation stability on specific lines are individual and we will not consider them. It is recommended to operate the modem on good lines. Application on lines Low quality will require additional settings, and one should not hope for any supernatural results in this case.
• Like all software modems, Acorp 56K EUS may slow down the system during initialization , and in addition, in Windows XP, when using the included drivers, the modem loads the CPU by 40-60%. Conexant is constantly working to eliminate these unpleasant moments. The first cannot be completely eliminated due to the organization of any virtual driver. The second has been reduced to an acceptable level: 5–15% in the latest versions.
• In early versions of drivers, there were cases of incompatibility with USB 2.0; this deficiency has been corrected in the latest versions of drivers.

Flaws

• The modem belongs to the controllerless class, despite its external design. Accordingly, this leads to the appearance of a whole range of disadvantages inherent in software modems;
• The USB bus itself, the imperfection of its controllers, as well as the updated specification introduces some features that can affect the development of the line of USB modems as a whole. Therefore, it is difficult to say how this area will develop in the future;
• Insufficiently informative display does not allow full control of the work process;
• One socket for connecting to a telephone line creates problems when there are parallel telephones.

conclusions

This modem is capable of performing mobile functions, since its weight and size indicators can be called minimal in the line external modems. When operating in stationary mode, although the modem performs basic functions, due to the software implementation of basic functions it is inferior in technical characteristics to hardware modems.

Acorp M56-EMSF-2

External Acorp modems in classic hardware design are the oldest “tenants” in Russian conditions, and have changed their the lineup repeatedly. At the same time, technical characteristics were maintained at the proper level. At the same time, everything is done to stabilize the cost in a certain range, accessible and attractive to the consumer. And here it should be noted that this is a success, since for 8 years the demand for these modems has not fallen, and the price has remained virtually unchanged. Success, in our opinion, lies in the fact that the modem is convenient, has a basic set of service capabilities, is quite stable in the conditions of Russian telephone channels, and in the absence of special “bells and whistles” that inevitably entail an increase in cost, is attractive to the consumer. New model made according to the already tested principle of “rational sufficiency”, but has a number of characteristic features, which we’ll talk about.

Requirements for OS and HardWare of the computer

Like any full-fledged modem, Acorp 56K EMSF-2 is completely undemanding to the used operating systems. Any OS can be freely used as long as it allows modems to be connected to a serial COM port. With regard to HardWare computer, only the presence of this port is necessary, CPU performance does not have any effect on the operation of the modem at all, and the modem, in turn, does not affect the operation of the computer.

First meeting

The appearance of Acorp modems has not undergone any changes over the years, which, on the one hand, allows the user to immediately highlight it on the store counter, but on the other hand, introduces a certain amount of confusion. The fact is that modems with completely different technical characteristics and the chipset used are produced in the same case. You can find out this only by looking at the “belly” of the modem, and then, connecting it to the computer, analyzing the responses to commands from the ATI group.

The Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modem, like other modems from this company, is supplied in a retail version. The kit includes the modem itself, a power supply, a cord for connecting to the COM port of a computer, a telephone cord, a disk with accompanying software and brief installation instructions for the most common operating systems of the Windows group. The entire set complies with current RosTest standards and is certified.

Specifications

The modem has a set of technical characteristics typical of any modems built on chips from Conexant, and in this sense there are no deviations from the reference design recommended by the manufacturer. But here we should immediately make a reservation that this is only true if preinstalled factory firmware is used. If you use new firmware that is undergoing special testing as part of all-Russian beta testing, functionality modem are expanding. True, everything has its time, and we are going to devote separate lines of review to this moment.

The modem supports the following data transfer protocols:

V.92, V.90, V.34, V.32bis, V.32, V.22bis, V.22, V.23, V.21, Bell 212A and Bell 103

Compression protocols:

V.44, V.42bis, MNP5

Error correction protocols:

In terms of service capabilities, the modem has an additional class 2 fax transmission protocol and a voice mode of operation with the ITU-T V.253 command format

As you can see, Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modems can operate on all modern data reception/transmission protocols (including the latest V.92) with a maximum bit rate for reception of 56000 bps, and 48000 bps for transmission. The latter is performed if the remote server modem supports the PCM Upstream function. To implement the ability to work on this protocol, the manufacturer had to abandon the two-chip version previously used in EMSF on RP56D/SP and L2800-38 and switch to a new chip from Conexant - CX06827-11.

The feasibility of such a transition has been discussed more than once, since on the one hand, nothing seemed to prevent the implementation of this protocol in the old version, but on the other hand, the chip manufacturer itself stopped its firmware support. Therefore, the fact remains that it turned out to be a different modem with new capabilities and technical characteristics.

Let's look at the circuit design of the analog part of the modem. In general, it differs little from the previously described circuits of the PIM2 and IRW2 modems. The nodes are the same, we covered the principles of operation and their purpose earlier. Therefore, we will focus only on the characteristic features.

• The analog circuit diagram is built on a classic transformer isolation, which is an undeniable advantage in modern lines of modems. The end user will not need to think about the mandatory grounding of the computer and carry the modem in warranty repair after the first voltage overload in the telephone line.
• As can be seen in the diagram above, the input sections have the same protection against current and potential overloads, and the voltage protection is enhanced due to the introduction of a three-point point on the varistors RV1-RV3, but the protection filter telephone network protection from high-frequency modem interference is simplified by eliminating the use of chokes. Probably the developers considered that this function could be fully provided by the inductance of the communication line itself. We have no right to assess the appropriateness of such a decision. The fact remains that on old EMSF modems and new EMSF-2 modems, instead of chokes, ordinary jumpers are soldered in.
• Despite the fact that the modem board provides for the connection of an optoelectronic dial-up relay, as in PIM2, EMSF-2, currently supplied to Russia, uses a reed relay (K3) of the SUN HOLD MD5 type. The logic of such a decision can only be found in the fact that the company is forced to fight to maintain a price niche, and this direction is fraught with the search for savings on every element. However, everyone knows examples of more radical measures, for example, the introduction of transformerless isolations, or a conscious refusal to use additional circuit solutions that increase the cost of the product along with expanding functionality.
• It is the above reason that can explain the two-transistor circuit for constructing an electronic choke.

• For a long time it was believed that the non-disconnectable PHONE jack on a modem was a definite minus. Indeed, when one of your relatives wants to call and picks up the phone while the modem is working, this can lead to a disconnection, or, at best, to retraining in the form of a retrain. Connected old telephone sets may also degrade communication. However, it's not all bad. Firstly, there are either no such devices left, or their number has been reduced to a minimum. And secondly, with the introduction of new telephone exchanges, another problem appeared - “good audibility”. Of course, because the remote modem can be heard well, the connection should become better, but there are reasonable limits to everything and sometimes the input signal is higher than normal (-16...-25 dB). This causes your modem to stall, which can negatively affect the quality of communication. This is where the device, which on old PBXs only got in the way, can help. Very often, devices powered by the telephone network help reduce the input level. And sometimes situations arise when the modem speed has dropped as a result of some temporary interference on the line, and in this case you don’t have to wait for the modem itself to start raising the speed to the desired value, but quickly pick up and hang up on the parallel phone, which will cause a retrain and will most likely return the quality of communication to the initial level. So sometimes combined nests are even useful.
• This is not shown in the circuit diagram above, but we will also note that connecting a headset will not automatically turn off the built-in speaker - now this is only done with commands when switching to voice mode.
• Analog and digital ground layout, compared to previously discussed circuit diagrams also has a difference, since a galvanic connection is introduced between them using capacitor C113. We have no right to discuss the expediency of such an introduction; it is likely that the developers wanted to strengthen protection against various types of common-mode interference in this way; other reasons are possible, such as ensuring the modem operates without the computer being grounded, or something else.
• If you carefully examine the modem board, you can note that in addition to the possibility of technological replacements (for example, a two-transistor electronic choke circuit with a three-transistor one, or a reed switch relay with an optoelectronic one), there are also completely missing blocks. Thus, in the input circuits of the analog part there are seats for elements of a hardware sensor for monitoring the state of the line. The absence of one is easy to explain - since there is no relay to turn off the PHONE jack, then the sensor becomes redundant. But on the other hand, this is also a margin of safety, i.e., if the company decides on the need for similar implementations in the future, rebuild technological process There will be no need to produce boards.

Summarizing the review of circuitry, we note that we specifically emphasized some flaws, but they do not at all mean that they are fatal in nature. Operating experience shows that they can be tolerated.

We will not now consider the design features of the modem. Its case has been produced unchanged for many years, and, apparently, it generally suits end users. The modem is quite stable due to two rubber-coated legs, which provide friction between the body and the table surface in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. All communication connectors are located on the rear panel.

The modem is equipped convenient panel, consisting of nine status LEDs that reflect all changes that occur during work and “rest”.

The use of such a panel allows you to assess the status of the modem even without the sound turned on, which is undoubtedly convenient.

Modem features

In this section we will try not only to list the features of the modem, but also to give a little analysis.

• V.44 modem compression protocol . On the one hand, the introduction of this protocol does not affect the speed of data transfer in archived form, since modern archivers have a compression ratio much higher than 1:6 (for V.44) or 1:4 (for the old V.42bis)*. On the other hand, Internet users do not take anything while surfing the pages. compressed files formats.htm, html, php, etc. And here, increasing the compression ratio by the modem itself significantly increases the page loading speed. In addition, there is a flexible opportunity to influence the compression mode, controlling it using special commands.

• In order for modem compression to work effectively and ports I/O not overloaded, it is necessary to increase their own throughput. This is achieved in Acorp 56 K EMSF-2 modems increasing the port speed to 230400 bps . In fact, this issue is not so trivial, since in addition to transferring the port to this speed, it is also required to provide it on the return section connecting DCE with DTE. IN Windows system This will require installing specialized drivers, as well as making changes to the modem drivers and registry. This is a step towards improving productivity, but its implementation is currently under development.

• Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modems have a wide range of adjustments for a specific line . Alas, not all users can use them in full, and only the basic ones are important for them, such as adjusting the output signal level, the ability to change the sensitivity of the transceiver, and adjusting the aggressiveness of the connection. Of the above adjustments, when using the ACF3_V1.088-V90_P21_FSH firmware loaded into the modem at the factory, registers S91 and S92 are available, allowing you to change the output signal level in data and fax transmission modes. There are other adjustments, and they will be discussed in a special section of the article, but for this the user will have to install one of the firmware, which is currently undergoing full-scale beta testing and has already gained popularity among users.

• A review of the documentation for Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modems shows that in addition to the standard Hayes-compatible commands inherent in any modems, there are additional set of commands , fully compliant with ITU-T standards V.250 and V.253. The advanced capabilities of these sets allow you to easily change the country code, compression and correction parameters, flexibly select data reception/transmission protocols and make additional adjustments.

• In addition to the main functional responsibilities for receiving/transmitting data, the Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modem allows you to take advantage of service functions, such as receiving/transmitting fax messages, organizing an answering machine, using a modem as a speakerphone. There is no built-in hardware Caller ID, but the use of software Caller ID is possible, and the likelihood of their normal operation has increased compared to earlier two-chip Acorp 56K EMSF models. The emergence of AON-Caller ID gateways allows you to organize something similar to a hardware AON-a. The only thing that is required is to find a suitable country code for the normal indication of received Caller ID signals in the CID format. Considering that the list of supported countries consists of three dozen, and work is underway to ensure such coordination, it can be assumed that in the near future the introduction of hardware Caller ID directly into the firmware will become an unacceptable excess.

• Modems come with built-in flash memory , which allows you to change the built-in firmware over time, i.e. update it. The presence of this function is very important, since it makes it possible to improve the properties of the modem by selecting the most suitable firmware. It should be noted that the use of this function is advisable and convenient in cases where there is a necessary and sufficient supply of such firmware. Otherwise, this function is simply useless, but you don’t have to look far for examples where the modem has flash memory, but either there is no firmware, or they appear once every 3-5 years. The process of updating (updating) modems is quite reliably organized, and you can bring the modem into a non-working state only by “trying hard” and not observing basic security measures, which we will talk about below.

• As already mentioned in the introduction, we will not conduct any tests and wishful thinking. The quality of the modem can only be checked on its own telephone line, then try to adjust it to the parameters of this line and only after that talk about the quality of work, connection stability, record and outsider bit rates and CPS. The only thing that can be noted is that, in comparison with the “old” models, the new ones work no worse, and under certain conditions they even outperform them. In addition, there are a number of additional settings provided by the manufacturer, but that’s not all. There is a very important advantage that distinguishes this modem from similar ones on the same chipset, namely the ability to introduce additional qualities and localization for Russian conditions .

Flaws

• Repeated from year to year, the main drawback is the non-disconnectable additional socket. Whether this is a plus or a minus is up to the end user to decide, but making this feature adjustable should not have been difficult for the manufacturer.
• Connecting a headset to the modem jacks does not disable the built-in speaker. It is difficult to guess who made the decision to develop such a scheme, but this is not a very good option, because The speaker is loud enough. In the first official release of firmware for this modem, it is possible to turn off the speaker with the M0 command, and turn on audio indication of events on the line. This partially corrects the situation.
• Software for working with V.92 is in beta testing. At the time of writing, all protocol functions are working, with the exception of Modem-On-Hold, because Filters are configured for most PBXs.

conclusions

In this part of the article, the authors usually share their impressions of the tested product, or make predictions about the future product. It just so happened that the authors of this article had to not only test, but also work for more than 1.5 years on this product, using it for various purposes. We will say simply - of the entire line of Acorp modems, the EMSF2 model can be safely put in first place, because Not only the work of the developers was invested in the development of this product, but also the work of dozens of users participating in beta testing, which means that the firmware developers are familiar with Russian lines and their problems first-hand.

Alternative software

In the article on PIM2 and IRW2 modems, we looked at the software included with the modems. It cannot be called the main one, since it does not perform many of the tasks that the user faces when operating modems. Therefore, here we decided to review alternative programs that can be successfully used.

Acorp Modem Booster (ex. HSFbooster)

This area of ​​programs designed to configure software modems began to develop relatively recently - about 3 years ago. The emergence of such programs is due to the fact that the general technical training of modern modem users is falling every year. And if a few years ago no one needed to explain what AT commands are and what they are needed for, now this trivial question causes serious difficulties for many users. There is another aspect that contributed to the emergence of this program. The fact is that software HCF/HSF modems have flexible adjustment capabilities, but they are hidden from the eyes of an inexperienced user in the Windows registry, and if we take into account the aforementioned low qualification level of the average user, direct operations with the registry can be disastrous.

The AMB program allows you to:

• Change the default protocols on which the modem connects;
• Change and limit bit rates by entering the received data into an additional Windows initialization line;
• Adjust the modem output signal level;
• Take and analyze statistics after communication sessions;
• Change the country code;
• Adjust temporarily s e settings for identifying BUSY signals;
• Adjust the aggressiveness of the connection;
• Change initial settings V.92 protocol;
• Change compression parameters.

This is a list of the main features. More detailed information on how the program works can be found in the built-in help file. Working with the program will not cause any difficulties even for an inexperienced user.

Acorp External Modem Tuner

Literally during the preparation of this review, a very long-awaited program for tuning hardware modems Acorp External Modem Tuner appeared. Modems can be configured to operate via s-registers and specialized commands, but in the age Windows simple The user is experiencing some difficulties. In forums and conferences you can often hear the request: “Give me a universal initialization string!” How can one suggest it if it does not and cannot exist as such? We have to send the user to accomplish the feat of reading the documentation. Alas, many people cannot do this kind of work. In this regard, it was decided to develop a program that would facilitate interaction with the modem.

The program allows you to:

• Adjust the output signal level;
• Change bit rate;
• Read existing modem settings and change them;
• Generate an additional initialization line;
• Adaptively make settings depending on the model of the modem being used;
• Determine the modem to make corrections.

For owners of modems c latest versions The following settings become available in the firmware:

• Additional "Russian registers";
• “Aggressiveness” of the modem;
• DualPCM detector mode;
• Setting the line busy signal.

For the first time, setting is carried out not only by entering values, but also graphically: the user selects intervals and listens to the resulting signal, comparing it with the one that can be heard in the telephone handset.

Considering that the program has appeared recently and is just beginning to develop, one can hope that in the future it will allow you to work with a much larger number of customizable modem parameters.

M_Tweak

This has long been known interesting feature individual users, such as reluctance to read documentation. If this feature had not existed, then this program would not have been born, although its more precise definition is a utility. What is the point here? If you correctly configure a modem for a specific line, then you need to spend a sufficient amount of time and have a reserve of knowledge. All received settings must be written to the modem profile using some terminal program, and then these recorded settings must be called up with an initialization command such as ATZ. Unfortunately, this path turned out to be unacceptable for most users, and therefore many initialize the modem with factory settings (for example, AT&F), and then, through an additional initialization line in the same Windows, make adjustments to configure the modem in specific conditions. We won’t judge whether this is good or bad, but the statement of this fact forced us to add special coarse settings to the modem documentation in the form of limiting bit rates via AT+MS commands. And to make life easier for a user who stubbornly does not want to understand the documentation, this utility was created.

The program writes initialization lines depending on the quality of the selected line:

MS=V22B;+A8E=,0 communication is practically impossible

MS=V32;+A8E=,0 very poor quality

MS=V32B;+A8E=.0 poor quality

MS=V.34,1,300,21600,300,21600 below average

MS=V.34,1,300,24000,300,24000 average

MS=V.34,1,300,28800,300,28800 slightly above average

MS=V90,1,300,31200,300,38667 unstable line

MS=V90,1,300,31200,300,44000 good line

MS=V.92.1 excellent line

As you can see, the gradation by line quality is very arbitrary, but at the first stage it can be a great help. The user only needs to move the slider.

The required command will be written in the additional modem initialization line in Windows. You can use this utility when using any Acorp modem from the new line.

The latest versions of the M_Tweak and AMB programs can always be found on the website.

Programs for statistical analysis

Fine-tuning the modem to the parameters of a specific line requires detailed analysis and analysis of statistical data after the connections have been made. All modems we reviewed have this capability. Statistics can be obtained by commands AT&V1 for EMSF-2, and AT#UG for PIM-2 IRW-2 EUS in unencrypted form, and by command AT&V2 for EMSF-2 and AT#UD for PIM-2 IRW-2 EUS in encrypted form form. The latter format fully complies with the Unimodem Diagnostic specification from Microsoft. Parsing and reading statistics in unencrypted form does not cause any difficulties, but in encrypted form it sometimes poses unsolvable tasks to the user. It’s good if the modem drivers provide statistics output log file"Network connection". And if not? Then Stanislav Mekhanoshin’s Rockwell Diagnostic and Unimodem Diagnostic programs can come to the rescue. They are quite easy to use. You need to either get a file with statistics or copy it to the clipboard. The programs themselves will display it on the screen, and further actions are up to the user. He can either save the decrypted data to a file or copy it to the clipboard for later pasting into his documents. The programs are so easy to use that there is no point in further describing them; it’s better to just pick it up and try it right away. Before use, we strongly recommend that you read the description files, where you can find detailed information by all means. You can get these programs at.

ModemSpd

Analysis and analysis of statistics after communication is a vital thing, but what to do if you want or need to analyze work on-line? You can, of course, use the ESC sequence “+++” in the terminal to switch the modem to command mode, give commands to read statistics, and then, using the ATO command, switch the modem back to data reception/transmission mode. Unfortunately, this method is currently only suitable for first and trial experiments in communicating with remote modems. Moreover, given that modems are now basically used for the Internet, communication in the terminal without authorization and even with it will be short-lived and will be terminated by a timeout in ppp. Fine tuning and analysis require longer communication sessions. This is where the program of a wonderful Russian programmer, known online under the nickname Temperton, comes to the rescue. This program is multifunctional, and besides analyzing statistics, it allows you to do a lot.

Let's quote the main points directly from the readme:

• Plotting the speed of an active RAS connection through the specified modem;
• The ability to display a digital window displaying the current data reception speed via the RAS interface (cps);
• Has an initstroke manager. It is possible to memorize several lines and quick selection one of them;

Note: under Windows 2000/XP the manager works only if the user has rights to write to the modem settings key.

• Can be used in conjunction with the TClockEx program. The %ModemSpd% element contains the value of the current data reception speed through the RAS interface (cps) or an empty string if the connection is not established;
• Collect modem connection statistics manually or automatically after the connection is disconnected (via TAPI). The statistics collection string is specified by the user. It is possible to connect statistics decoders Rockwell Diagnostics and Unimodem Diagnostics Stanislav Mekhanoshin. Maybe automatic detection collection lines and the need to connect decoders. View initial connection statistics for Rockwell modems (&V2) in Windows XP;
• Maintaining a connection report. Statistics are saved in the report if you wish. remote access and communication parameters, statistics and user modem initialization string, speed graph. The program can display brief summary information on connections;
• The modem session analyzer allows you to calculate the maximum possible data transmission and reception speed (cps) based on the collected modem statistics. Calculation is possible for a specific session or a series of sessions;
• Manual Speed ​​Calculator allows you to calculate the maximum possible data transfer speed (cps) based on data entered manually;
• Rescan Hardware function for Windows 2000/XP. If your modem is disabled while the OS is loading, then after turning it on, click right click on the ModemSpd icon in the notification area and select Rescan Hardware the modem will be detected.

We hope that there is no point in commenting on all these points, since it is clear that this program can greatly make life easier for the user. Look for her on

Modem Xpert

This program was originally developed specifically for modems on chips from Conexant. Alas, she was not included in the composition installation disk, although we hope that this is a temporary phenomenon. At its core, it performs almost the same functions as ModemSpd and in real time allows you to monitor the operation of the modem, evaluating it, and drawing conclusions about the need for further adjustment.

The program is in English and is recommended for use directly by the chip developer itself. You can find a description of it in PDF format on the website www.conexant.com. It should be noted that few manufacturing companies have received the right to distribute it. We recommend that you visit the official support site where you can download it. For the program to function normally, additional installation efforts and even additional libraries will most likely be required. Look for them on the website

Net Waiting

The modern V.92 protocol allows you to implement one of its convenient features, such as the Modem On Hold function. Its essence is that while working on the Internet, you will not feel completely cut off from the world on the phone, due to the fact that it is busy. Your friend or relative's call will not go unanswered because they will hear busy signals. Before the advent of the V.92 protocol, this was possible thanks to such a function as Call Wating. In order for it to work, such a service must be connected to you by your telecom operator. Let us immediately note that, as a rule, this is not free, and in some cases it is completely impossible. You can consult about this directly with your telecom operator. If Call Wating is connected, then incoming call while your phone is busy, it will not go unnoticed, and if the line is occupied by the modem, it will break the connection. If, in addition to everything else, the V.92 protocol is used, then, after talking with the subscriber, the modem will restore its interrupted connection without your intervention, which is really convenient.

The Net Waiting program provides the user with a friendly interface. It is also recommended by Conexant for use, and just like Modem Xpert, it requires additional settings when installing, which you can find on the website in the article “Configuring CallWaiting”. You can also download the latest version of the program there.

Manufacturer support

Up to now we have talked about technical specifications and software of modems of the Acorp line, which the buyer will encounter when choosing a particular model. It's time to consider the issues technical support user. On Russian market and not only that, the principle of its minimum sufficiency has long existed. It consists of the following:

1. A complete lack of any kind of support the company sells equipment, but is not at all concerned about its further fate.
2. Support with posting news on the website and once posted firmware, drivers, documentation and other attributes.

Not every company can boast of frequent content updates, much less dialogue with the user. As a result, such support is of a protracted static nature. Or, in other words, the user was remembered at the stage of forming the modem supplies, and then forgotten. If you take a look at the recent past, you can easily note that Acorp modems were sold with minimal technical support. But quite recently, dramatic changes have occurred in this direction. To intelligently resolve this issue, Acorp proposed a new solution that contains a “zest” and captivates with its obvious simplicity and foresight.

The basic premise is that there is no perfect computer hardware, including modems. Since such equipment does not exist, it must be improved, and this process is unthinkable without dialogue with the user. Things seem to be obvious, and manufacturers are trying to resolve them different ways, and the closer the contact, the higher the likelihood of fruitful work. It is for such contact that two independent directions were created - one resolves issues further development modems, other official support.

By participating in the first direction, the user can evaluate the update process, take part in beta testing, and solve their private problems related to the operation and identified errors in the operation of the modem. This solution is revolutionary in essence, since not everyone will decide to make known errors public, not everyone will decide to attract generally inexperienced users to their side, not everyone will decide to give “damp” products into their hands. But the benefits of such actions are undoubted, since it is unlikely that more acceptable way collection of statistics and organization feedback. For this purpose, a beta tester service has been formed. The declaration of service can be found on the website.

The second direction is the dissemination of proven solutions. For these purposes, the Russian representative office of Acorp has created a website.

It publishes materials that have passed preliminary testing and therefore they should not cause any complaints from users. The site contains a certain amount of advertising, but the creators do not hide behind its screen, but provide the end user with the opportunity to organize a dialogue. Support works via e-mail and daily solves dozens of both simple and quite non-standard problems, helping our clients find the right solution. This site publishes the latest news, interesting articles, FAQ, maintains and expands the list of official dealers, and identifies current problems with a view to their further resolution.

What is the focus of attention in both chosen areas of support? Let's look at the points.

Documentation

As already noted at the beginning of the review, none of the supplied modems today has complete Russian-language documentation. And the English version contains only the main points for installing the modem. What should you do if the modem is installed, but you can’t even create the simplest initialization line, much less adjust the modem to a specific line? It is extremely difficult to find a complete list of registers and commands on the Internet. In order to fill this gap, manuals from the direct manufacturers of Conexant chips are posted on the beta testers website. For those who do not speak English, another unprecedented gift was made - a book on Acorp modems - “User Manual”. We made no mistake in the name, this document can really be called a book, because... in addition to writing the modem and commands, readers will be able to find basic information about modem and fax communications, setting up software AOHs, initial settings for the communication line, and much more.

This is just the first step. As can be seen from the title pages, this document will be improved and supplemented. There is one more point - software modems are also not bypassed. A similar book has also been published for each of them, and it is now almost impossible to find a software modem with detailed Russian-language documentation on the modern Russian market.

E-mail systems/forum/FAQ

No matter how many good and complete documents there are, the end user will still have questions, either due to inattentive reading, or due to the difficulty of understanding the material. Therefore, there are several ways to resolve this situation. This includes individual support via e-mail, live communication in forums, organization and development of the FAQ system. The support service strives to give its own specific attention to each of these issues.

Firmware and Drivers

Reviewing the current line of Acorp modems, from hardware to software, we have repeatedly noted one or another drawback and promised to introduce us to the progress of its elimination. This is precisely the main task assigned to the services and each of them is consistently solved. What has already been done in this direction?

A whole range of firmware has been released for Acorp 56K EMSF-2 modems, each of which is a continuation of the achievements made in the previous version and solves certain problems. The main thing is that for all modems the process of adaptation to Russian conditions is in full swing with the provision of flexible mechanisms for this adaptation. Now, for any user who has updated the firmware, the default country code will be set to “Russia”, with the appropriate settings to align with ATC signals. Functions such as adjusting aggressiveness, allowing and disabling changes in transmitter power upon request of a remote modem (Power Drop), enabling/disabling the indication of retrains and speed renegotiations have also become available. The list of measures is not limited to this, but it is difficult to cover them in their entirety in one review. If you would like to take a look full list changes they can be found in the Russian documentation for the firmware. In addition, minor errors made by the manufacturer are constantly being corrected, measures are being introduced to improve the quality of communication and adjustment to a specific line.

The most modern drivers for the Acorp 56K EUS series modems are provided on the beta tester website, which have already completely solved the problem of high loading central processor under Windows XP, as well as stability of modems. On the official support website, in addition to the factory ones (supplied with the modem), reliable and beta-tested drivers are also published. Acorp EUS became one of the first HCF-USB modem in Russia that works on most motherboards in OS Windows XP. True, for this you need to put latest version drivers from the site.

For modems of the Acorp 56K PIM2 series, several versions of drivers are provided, which solve the problem of changing the algorithm when choosing a bit rate. As we have already noted, the most unpleasant thing today is the gradual drop in bit rates while the modem is operating. In new versions of drivers, this bug has been fixed and the modem now simply does additional renegotiation, but the speed remains the same.

For modems of the Acorp 56K IRW2 series, among other things, thanks to the work of the support service, the issue of the possibility of operating the modem in voice mode has been resolved. Even without the presence of special jacks for connecting a speakerphone, its implementation was carried out using sound card. Similar attempts were made on modems from other manufacturers, but they either refused to further develop the idea, or the mode was introduced forcibly, i.e. the user could not choose between the internal speaker and the sound card.

Related Software

We have already described all types of related software, but is it worth stopping there? Of course not, since since the software in modems changes, the programs that work with it must be updated. Will development be limited only to the Acorp Modem Booster and M_Tweak programs? No, of course, everything here is in the hands of the end user, and it is he who sets his tasks in developing related software.

World Beta Testing

At the end of the conversation about technical support, I would like to note one point that went almost unnoticed by our compatriots. Opened in autumn 2003 new section beta testing for foreign citizens - . And it doesn’t matter what kind of modem a person has installed, drivers are supplied by series of chips. The main goal of opening such a section is to reach new level development. Of course, there are no guarantees of operation or technical support for this section. It seems to us that the user himself must decide what is best for him: buy “Noname”, modify the drivers “manually” and look for answers to his questions, or choose a proven brand for which everything is debugged and working, and most problems can be solved by contacting to technical support.

Note

In the process of creating this great overview The abbreviation in the name of the modems has changed; now the letter “M” appears there. For example, M-PIM2 or M-EMSF2. However, in this regard, there were no differences in the equipment of the modems, either those discussed in the review or those announced on the pages of the official website.

Conclusion

Concluding this review, I would like to note that despite a decent amount of material, one way or another some issues fell out of sight. We did not set ourselves the task of writing an article in an advertising presentation, so we did not hesitate to identify the shortcomings of each of the modems under consideration. Not forgetting that any technical device has both positive and negative qualities. The final conclusion must be made by the reader himself, choosing a modem for his individual needs. We sincerely hope that the information provided will help make this choice meaningful.

The authors express their sincere gratitude to everyone who helped and is helping in the development of the entire line of Acorp modems, and this includes the preparation of articles, website development, participation in beta testing of programs, firmware and drivers, answers in specialized forums and conferences, constructive comments and additions regarding all aspects of activity . It is thanks to this selfless support from advanced and novice users that the Acorp line of modems have every right to bear the title of “people's”.

Article on setting up the Acorp router models W422G and WAP-G.

The instructions are given using the Acorp router from Rostelecom as an example, but it is also suitable for other models and firmware.

Router connection diagram

There are several ports on the back of the W422G or WAP-G router.

If in the future computers will be connected to it using a LAN cable, there are 4 connectors here.

The fifth port, located separately from the other four, is intended for connecting an Internet cable (the one installed by Rostelecom or Megaline employees from the entrance). If your computer doesn't have WiFi antennas, insert the cord that was in the box on one side into the device, and on the other into a similar input network card on the rear panel of the system unit.

Setting up the router's connection to the Internet

After this, turn on the Acorp W422G or WAP-G router, and on your computer open any browser - a program for browsing the Internet.

In the address bar, type 192.168.1.254 or 192.168.1.1 and press Enter.

Let us emphasize, not in the search bar, but in the address bar.

Usually, by default, these are the words “Admin” and “Admin”.

It is also produced here full customization router. To do this, click on the “Setup” tab and then click “New Connection”. Next, fill out all the fields that appear correctly:

• Name - connection name (any);
• Type - connection type (PPPoE);
• Username - user name (provided by your Internet service provider);
• Password - password (provided by your Internet service provider);

If everything is done correctly, save the changes - click on “Apply” and wait for the modem to connect to the Internet, then check its operation using any browser. For a computer, the router acts as a modem.

Setting up a WiFi access point on the router

Wi-Fi is configured on the “Wireless” tab. On the left, select Serup. Check "Enable AP" - it should be enabled. Next, go to “Security” and select the WPA2 encryption method, and in the PSK String field enter a combination of at least 8 characters (this code will be needed to connect wirelessly WiFi networks modem).

Instructions for setting up the Acorp LAN 122 modem (new)

ATTENTION! For users with old logins like ats...

• For Internet VPI / VCI = 8 / 35
• For television VPI / VCI = 0 / 35

• For Internet VPI / VCI = 0 / 35
• For television VPI / VCI = 1 / 36

Well, you finally purchased this modem from your nearest store. Now I will tell you how to configure this modem in router mode. Of course, you have already connected to the Webstream service, and you are absolutely sure of it.

This modem has four lights on the front:

• PWR(lights up as soon as you turn on the modem to the network)
• Lan(constantly lights up when a connection is established between the computer and the modem, if it just blinks, this means that the modem is trying to establish a connection)
• USB(lit only if you connected the modem via USB. I HIGHLY DO NOT RECOMMEND)
• ADSL(there are four operating modes: off - no ADSL connection; constantly on - ADSL connection is established and maintained; blinking slowly - the modem is trying to initialize the connection; on quickly and synchronously with Lan - data is being transferred)

On the left side of the modem there is a switch Power- extremely useful thing, will be discussed in detail below. In the meantime, we need to move it to position ON
On the back of the modem there are interface connectors where you must plug in the appropriate cables. Between connector Power And Lan- there is a small hole with an inscription RESET, use only in extreme cases..
So you connected the modem, the lights on your modem came on PWR, Lan And ADSL. And the first thing you need to do is set up the connection between the computer and the modem. You can find out more about this. I only recommend that at first you check the option “Obtain an IP address automatically”

Go to your browser and type 192.168.1.1 A window like this should appear

Type as Username&Password - Admin/Admin (Important! Please respect case of letters)
If you did everything correctly, then the modem home page should appear in front of you

Your speed, connection status, firmware version, and how much time has passed since you turned on the computer are highlighted in red.
Then follow the steps indicated in the pictures. Explanations will appear when you hover your mouse over the image.

You can check the connection status in Status/Connection Status. There you will find out your IP address.

The setup is complete.
After you have finished setting up, I highly recommend turning off and then turning on the modem after 30-60 seconds. Thus, you will reboot it and the final application of the settings that you have specified will occur. It is also recommended to do such a reboot if you are unable to enter the modem settings and there is a yellow connection icon in the tray Exclamation point(which indicates a connection with limited access) By the way, if your sites suddenly do not load, but all the lights are on, then first check the status of your connection. Suddenly there is a break. You can restore the connection if you go into the modem settings again: Setup/Webstream/Connect