one major reason the units are pricey is that it includes that FCC
certified interface with the phone lines.  Lots of just modem chips are
there, but to legally interfaced, it must be certified at least in the
states.

> ----------
> From:         Rob[SMTP:robzs@HICOM.NET]
> Sent:         Thursday, September 25, 1997 9:46 AM
> To:   PICLIST@MITVMA.MIT.EDU
> Subject:      Modem ICs
>
> Hi,
>
> I am trying to consolidate a design I have by eliminating an external
> modem and replacing it with a Modem IC on the PCB.  I have used
> Cermetek
> modem ICs and they are very easy to work with and very little support
> circuitry is needed.  However they are costly (at least $100) for a
> 14400.
> Does anyone here know of some Modem IC manufacturers or have used
> modem
> ICs in their projects?  A recommendation of where to look or parts to
> research would be great.  I tried a web search and found only one
> place
> who had something but it required a lot of support circuitry.
>
> Secondly, I have heard some mention of using a PIC as a modem.  If
> that is
> true, how easy is this to implement?  Where could I find some code?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Rob
>