Japan is often considered a global leader in advanced technology, known for its innovations in robotics, electronics and high-speed trains. However, the country is also known for its tendency to retain older technology long after it has been abandoned elsewhere. .
Only recently has Japan started phasing out floppy disks in government offices, and too many of its laptops and devices are still equipped with legacy features like VGA connectors. Most recently, we covered a PCI Express adapter that adds a parallel port to modern PCs, allowing buyers to connect long-forgotten devices like HP LaserJet or dot-matrix printers. For bonus nostalgia points, the corresponding driver comes on a CD and it’s compatible with Windows XP and later.
But now Planex Communications has understood Japan’s reluctance to move forward with the release of its PL-US56K2(A) USB-connected 56K modem, ideal for anyone who still needs to connect to the Internet like it was 1999 .
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For around 5,980 yen (around $40) on Amazon, this device is designed for PCs without a built-in modem, allowing access to analog public telephone lines for Internet connectivity, data transmission, and even faxing, all without need to install drivers.
The modem supports ITU-T V.90 and V.92 protocols, providing a theoretical maximum data reception speed of 56 Kbps and transmission speed of up to 33.6 Kbps. At these speeds, you won’t stream HD video, but you can at least check email or send a fax while thinking about how far technology has come — or not, depending on your point of view.
Powered via USB 2.0, the PL-US56K2(A) is small and lightweight, weighing just 28 grams and measuring 25mm x 75mm x 18mm, making it easy to store alongside your other late-century relics. 90s like your floppy disk. discs, PalmPilot and that stack of free trial CDs from AOL.
The PL-US56K2(A) isn’t likely to take over the world, but it’s a practical solution for anyone still navigating the world of dial-up or who needs to send occasional faxes.