Practical Peripherals PM2400SA Modem
                       Copyright 1989 David W. Batterson


     Practical Peripherals has been manufacturing high-quality modems for a
number of years.  I own the PM1200SA model, and have gotten good use of it.
     The term "Hayes-compatible" refers to a modem's responses to the "AT"
command set.  Unlike some modems which claim "100% Hayes-compatible," Practical
Peripherals guarantees it.  In fact, the PM2400SA, unlike many other modems on
the market, uses the same Rockwell chip (the 2424DP, if you're interested) as
the Hayes Smartmodem 2400.
     The PM2400SA--the SA refers to "Stand Alone"-- has an Intel 8031
microprocessor for modem control.  Don't look for DIP switches because it uses
an EEPROM instead to store the configuration settings in memory.
     This modem looks the same as the PM1200SA model.  There are the same LEDs:
MR (Modem Ready), TX (Transmit Data), RX (Receive Data), CD (Carrier Detect),
OH (Off-Hook), AA (Auto Answer), and HS (High Speed).
     The PM2400SA has no frills and extras; it's just a basic modem which does
exactly what it's supposed to do.  It does have a volume control for the
speaker, something I like.  And it has automatic adaptive equalization to
assure error-free data transfers.
     My manual for the older PM1200SA was poorly written and organized.  This
one is much better, but still wins no kudos as manuals go.  All the essential
information is contained in the pages.  But it could still be confusing for
first-time modem users, especially the use of AT commands.
     The manual incorrectly refers to SideKick as "Sidekick," Crosstalk as
"CrossTalk" and Smartcom III as "SmartComm III."  No big deal I suppose, but
software names should be written correctly if you're going to mention them.
     This may seem kind of a yawner review, but there's not too much more to
tell about this modem.  It worked just fine during my evaluation period.  You
might say Practical Peripherals are the Toyotas of modems--reliable, decent in
appearance, and you always get your money's worth.
     This modem also comes with a generous five year warranty.  Suggested list
is $239 but virtually no dealer sells it for that much.  The 2400 SA is also
available with MNP error-correction, data-compression protocol.
     For more information, contact Practical Peripherals, 31245 La Baya Dr.,
Westlake Village, CA  91362; 800-442-4774, 818-706-0333, FAX: 818-706-2474.
                                       #
     David Batterson specializes in online communication articles and reviews. 
Contact him online via MCI MAIL: DBATTERSON.