Re: Debian compatibility with US Robotics USR5637 external USB modem

[Mark Allums <mark@allums.com>]

On 2/27/2010 1:34 AM, Stan Hoeppner wrote:
> Mark Allums put forth on 2/26/2010 1:06 AM:
> > On 2/25/2010 11:09 PM, Peter Tenenbaum wrote:
>
> > >   -- partially as an emergency backup for the network,
> > > but mainly so that I can run a fax and answering machine app on the
> > > computer and get rid of my extremely low-quality answering machine.
>
> > I would like to suggest another option.  A router that can accept 3G
> > cellular internet air cards.  I use a Cradlepoint router and a Pantech
> > USB modem UM175.  Works astonishingly well, and you don't have to teach
> > Debian anything.  You just need a web browser with javascript.
> > Iceweasel/Firefox, Epiphany, Konquerer, and Google Chrome all work.
>
> Can he send and receive faxes via PSTN over this 3G connection?  He clearly
> states his main goal for the modem is fax and answering machine duty, with
> internet dial backup as a secondary function.

Uh, no, I think.  The aircards provide just internet.  OP could use an 
internet-based fax service over the modem.  Or, he might use a 
smartphone for the same purpose, many of the aircard routers like the 
Cradlepoint know about lots of phones, like Blackberries.  If he had a 
phone that could do fax/efax, he might get away with it.

Of course, my suggestion of an HP All-in-one machine is my personal 
preference.  Printer/scanner/copier/fax in one.  These are available for 
less than US$200.00.


Mark Allums