An answer-only modem can answer incoming calls but cannot originate them. The term describes how the modem handles call setup—not whether it can send data once a connection is established.
What does “answer-only modem” mean?
The Microsoft Computer Dictionary, Fifth Edition defines it as “A modem that can receive but not originate calls.” The restriction is about placing a call: an answer-only modem can accept an incoming connection, but it cannot call another modem itself. Microsoft Computer Dictionary, Fifth Edition, excerpt hosted by O’Reilly Resources.
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How does it differ from an answer/originate modem?
| Modem role | Answer incoming calls? | Originate calls? |
|---|---|---|
| Answer-only | Yes | No |
| Answer/originate | Yes | Yes |
The dictionary calls the answer/originate modem the most common type in its definition. That wording describes the reference’s terminology; it is not a current estimate of the modem market.
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Does “answer-only” mean it cannot send data?
No. “Answer-only” refers to call origination, not the direction in which data can travel after a connection is made. The definition does not establish that an answer-only modem is limited to receiving data. Historical technical descriptions distinguish modem roles by their connection signaling; they do not make call direction and data direction the same thing. Radio-Electronics, October 1981.
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- DIAL-UP & FAX SUPPORT: Hardware-based USB 2.0 Fax modem adds data and fax functionality to your computer / laptop via USB without putting additional load on your CPU; For faxing, rural internet access, security systems, POS credit authorization
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Where was the term used?
Answer-only modems are associated with systems that waited for a remote terminal to call in. Webopedia notes historical use beginning in the 1960s and mentions bulletin board systems as an example. This is historical context from its entry, last updated May 24, 2021—not evidence that answer-only modem is a current product category. Webopedia’s definition of answer-only modem.
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- Plug and Play. It is suitable for Win 98/2000/ME/XP/Vista/CE5.0/10/8.1/8/7. No need for any external driver.
- For GRIS fax cats can dial the Internet, send and receive faxes, but do not support voice calls.
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