Bruce writes:

> Today, with error-correcting modems and end-to-end digital connections,
> this behavior is no longer necessary. Expressions such as the one in
> Ted's example are a legacy of a bygone era of computing, a quaint and
> precious reminder of just how far we have come.

Speaking of which...

I read this morning that 3Com plans to spin off its modem business --
you know, from when they acquired U.S. Robotics -- into a new company
named, uh, U.S. Robotics.

When I read that, I felt sadness for the group.  It can't be a good
feeling working for a "new" modem company, when the trend is clearly
towards "broadband in every (metropolitan) home."

--Glenn