# Modems on The No Agenda Show

Modems comes up in 14 chapters across 14 episodes of The No Agenda Show, from September 2008 to August 2026.

- **Chapters:** 14
- **Episodes:** 14
- **Discussed:** September 2008 – August 2026
- **Related topics:** [Amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [At&t](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/at-t.md), [Dsl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dsl.md), [Amd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amd.md), [Aol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aol.md), [Bandwidth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bandwidth.md), [Bbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbs.md), [Compuserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/compuserve.md), [Connectivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connectivity.md), [Customer Service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/customer-service.md)

## Chapters 1–14 of 14

### History of Dial-Up Modems, Baud Rates and Tech Wars

- **Episode:** [1894: Fever Concerns](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1894-fever-concerns.md)
- **Published:** 2026-08-13
- **Time:** 1:43:05–1:47:58
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1894-fever-concerns/chapter/history-of-dial-up-modems-baud-rates-and-tech-wars.md

The hosts reminisce about the evolution of modem speeds, from 300 baud acoustic couplers to 56k V.90 technology. They discuss the "modem wars" between vendors like Hayes and US Robotics and the distinct sounds associated with different connection speeds. One host recalls using a TRS-100 laptop with an acoustic coupler to file news stories from the field.

Keywords: [dial-up](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dial-up.md), [modems](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/modems.md), baud rate, us robotics, hayes compatible, [trs-100](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/trs-100.md), acoustic coupler

### Retro Tech Nostalgia, Fidonet and 300 Baud Modems

- **Episode:** [1613: Fossil Fools](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1613-fossil-fools.md)
- **Published:** 2023-12-03
- **Time:** 2:24:32–2:26:47
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1613-fossil-fools/chapter/retro-tech-nostalgia-fidonet-and-300-baud-modems.md

The hosts reminisce about early networking technology, including Fidonet, bulletin board systems (BBS), and the evolution of modem speeds. They contrast the limitations of the 1980s with modern 5-gigabit fiber optic connections.

Keywords: fidonet, bulletin board systems, hays modems, 300 baud, [fiber optic](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fiber-optic.md)

### Voting Machines Online, Georgia Software Updates

- **Episode:** [1298: The Palmist](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1298-the-palmist.md)
- **Published:** 2020-11-28
- **Time:** 2:26:20–2:30:11
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1298-the-palmist/chapter/voting-machines-online-georgia-software-updates.md

Despite claims that voting machines are never connected to the internet, a report shows that thousands of ES&S machines use modems to transmit "unofficial" results. In Georgia, software researcher Hari Hursti observed "sloppy" security during a last-minute software update in Fulton County, comparing the risks of uncertified election software to the Boeing 737 Max technical failures.

Keywords: [es&s](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/es-s.md), [modems](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/modems.md), [internet connectivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/internet-connectivity.md), [fulton county](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fulton-county.md), [georgia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/georgia.md), hari hursti

### The Last Yard, Cable Modems, Napster Influence

- **Episode:** [1084: Complex Instrument](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1084-complex-instrument.md)
- **Published:** 2018-11-10
- **Time:** 1:53:49–1:57:49
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1084-complex-instrument/chapter/the-last-yard-cable-modems-napster-influence.md

The conceptual foundation of podcasting began in 1999 in Amsterdam, where always-on cable modems allowed for background data transfers. Inspired by Napster's peer-to-peer file sharing, the idea of "The Last Yard" was developed, proposing that computers should automatically download content in the background so it is ready for immediate playback. This shifted the user experience from active searching to passive reception of new media.

Keywords: cable modems, [napster](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/napster.md), the last yard, [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), [mp3](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mp3.md)

### Net Neutrality, Open Access Regulation History

- **Episode:** [1001: Sexual Terrorism](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1001-sexual-terrorism.md)
- **Published:** 2018-01-21
- **Time:** 2:50:03–2:53:37
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/1001-sexual-terrorism/chapter/net-neutrality-open-access-regulation-history.md

An analysis of net neutrality history suggests that the lack of regulation in the early 2000s allowed cable internet to flourish. The discussion argues that "common carrier" rules often stifle innovation and that the internet's growth was driven by unregulated market competition.

Keywords: [net neutrality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/net-neutrality.md), [fcc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fcc.md), [dsl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dsl.md), cable modem, [regulation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/regulation.md)

### Lieutenant Kim Davis and Nuclear Deterrence Shout-out

- **Episode:** [976: 10th Anniversary](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/976-10th-anniversary.md)
- **Published:** 2017-10-27
- **Time:** 5:10:37–5:12:33
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/976-10th-anniversary/chapter/lieutenant-kim-davis-and-nuclear-deterrence-shout-out.md

John Davis donates in honor of his daughter, Lieutenant Kim Davis, who manages ten nuclear missile sites in North Dakota. The hosts provide a "bully" shout-out, contrasting her high-stakes underground work with the "safe spaces" sought by other millennials. They play "pew-pew" jingles to celebrate her role in national security.

Keywords: [kim davis](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kim-davis.md), nuclear silo, [north dakota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/north-dakota.md), [deterrence](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deterrence.md), 56k modem

### Finger Numbness, Carpal Tunnel, and Modem Connectivity

- **Episode:** [827: ELBOOB](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/827-elboob.md)
- **Published:** 2016-05-22
- **Time:** 1:32
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/827-elboob/chapter/finger-numbness-carpal-tunnel-and-modem-connectivity.md

John C. Dvorak and Adam Curry open the program from Northern Silicon Valley with technical difficulties regarding a modem connection. Dvorak describes experiencing numbness in his fingertips while using a trackpad, leading to a brief discussion on potential causes such as carpal tunnel syndrome or high blood pressure.

Keywords: [silicon valley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/silicon-valley.md), modem, carpal tunnel, trackpad, numbness

### Telecommunications History, BBS Era to Modern Storage

- **Episode:** [516: 9/11 Generation](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/516-9-11-generation.md)
- **Published:** 2013-05-26
- **Time:** 47:13–52:10
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/516-9-11-generation/chapter/telecommunications-history-bbs-era-to-modern-storage.md

John C. Dvorak reflects on his history in the telecommunications industry, including his best-selling guides from the 1980s and the era of CompuServe's CB Simulator. The hosts marvel at the technological leap from 5-megabyte external SCSI drives to modern 4-terabyte hard drives available at retail stores. They contrast the early days of local BBS exchanges with the current ability to broadcast to a global audience from separate states.

Keywords: [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [compuserve](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/compuserve.md), [bbs](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbs.md), [modems](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/modems.md), 4 terabyte drive

### Dial-up Modem Technology, 56k Networking, and Underground Internet

- **Episode:** [424: Internet Governance](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/424-internet-governance.md)
- **Published:** 2012-07-08
- **Time:** 52:18–57:48
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/424-internet-governance/chapter/dial-up-modem-technology-56k-networking-and-underground-internet.md

The hosts discuss the potential return to 56k dial-up modems as a way to maintain a truly free and unregulated internet. They reminisce about early ISPs like Panix and the evolution of baud rates from 300 to 9600. Concerns are raised about modern hardware lacking RS232 ports and modem jacks, suggesting that ham radio operators and an underground market for refurbished analog equipment may be necessary for future privacy.

Keywords: 56k modem, panix, rs232, [aol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/aol.md), [networking](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/networking.md), analog phone lines

### Hot Pockets Tour Logistics and Virginia Meetup

- **Episode:** [321: Internet in a Suitcase](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/321-internet-in-a-suitcase.md)
- **Published:** 2011-07-14
- **Time:** 35:49–38:19
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/321-internet-in-a-suitcase/chapter/hot-pockets-tour-logistics-and-virginia-meetup.md

Adam Curry details the start of the Hot Pockets tour, beginning with a flight to Virginia to meet Baroness Maggie Vincent. A listener-organized meetup is planned in Virginia, and the show will be broadcast from an RV parked in Vincent's driveway using a USB 3G modem. The hosts discuss the high fuel costs of the mobile studio and the "value for value" model that keeps the show commercial-free.

Keywords: [maggie vincent](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maggie-vincent.md), [virginia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/virginia.md), [meetup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/meetup.md), hot pockets mobile, 3g modem

### Time Warner Cable Connectivity Issues, Adam Curry's Modem Upgrade

- **Episode:** [270: Call of Doody](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/270-call-of-doody.md)
- **Published:** 2011-01-16
- **Time:** 15:12–17:46
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/270-call-of-doody/chapter/time-warner-cable-connectivity-issues-adam-curry-s-modem-upgrade.md

Adam Curry recounts his recent struggles with internet connectivity and his interactions with Time Warner Cable technicians. After several days of outages, a technician who was a fan of the show provided a free modem upgrade and personal contact information to ensure service stability.

Keywords: [time warner cable](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/time-warner-cable.md), [at&t](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/at-t.md), [dsl](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dsl.md), modem, [connectivity](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/connectivity.md), [customer service](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/customer-service.md)

### WiMAX Mobile Internet Service in Amsterdam

- **Episode:** [112: The Doomsday Box](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/112-the-doomsday-box.md)
- **Published:** 2009-07-12
- **Time:** 1:58–4:37
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/112-the-doomsday-box/chapter/wimax-mobile-internet-service-in-amsterdam.md

A new WiMAX service in Amsterdam allows users to purchase a USB stick modem for 90 euros and sign up for prepaid high-speed internet. The service offers five megabits down and one megabit up for approximately $10 per week, providing a reliable alternative to hotel Wi-Fi and failing cable connections.

Keywords: [wimax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wimax.md), [amsterdam](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amsterdam.md), usb modem, [bandwidth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bandwidth.md), prepaid internet, [mobile data](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mobile-data.md)

### Fundraising Dinners, TSA Security, Outro

- **Episode:** [108: Waxman Is A Dick](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/108-waxman-is-a-dick.md)
- **Published:** 2009-06-28
- **Time:** 59:51–1:02:01
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/108-waxman-is-a-dick/chapter/fundraising-dinners-tsa-security-outro.md

The hosts discuss potential future fundraising initiatives, such as exclusive $500-a-plate dinners. A host shares a story about passing through TSA security multiple times without being checked, despite the strict rules for other passengers. The show concludes with a technical note about using an AT&T USB modem for the broadcast and a sign-off from San Francisco.

Keywords: [fundraising](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fundraising.md), [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [at&t](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/at-t.md), usb modem, [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md)

### Expert Witness Experiences in Silicon Valley Litigation

- **Episode:** [49: Everybody Wants to Rule the World](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/49-everybody-wants-to-rule-the-world.md)
- **Published:** 2008-09-27
- **Time:** 48:27–51:50
- **Transcript:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/49-everybody-wants-to-rule-the-world/chapter/expert-witness-experiences-in-silicon-valley-litigation.md

Personal experiences serving as an expert witness in high-stakes Silicon Valley technology lawsuits are shared. The discussion covers the tactical use of document stalling in cases like Intel vs. AMD and the process of providing depositions for companies like Microsoft and Lindows.

Keywords: [expert witness](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/expert-witness.md), [intel](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/intel.md), [amd](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amd.md), hayes modem, [litigation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/litigation.md), [discovery](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/discovery.md)

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