how is a DSL modem different from a DSL modem router?

joy · June 30th, 2009, 10:24 PM

So I am confused. I have a Qwest Actiontec M1000 DSL modem on my 2008 Dell computer. What I really want to do is find a CHEAP way of getting another computer to connect to a TV (as the moniter) it a completely different room in my house. My bright idea was to buy an inexpensive computer or laptop, wireless keyboard/mouse, and then another DSL modem. . I find these items at thrift stores,craig's list, and ebay; but that's when the confusion takes over; how is a DSL modem different from a DSL modem router? Which do I need? Is what I want even possible? Sorry about the length of this question, I am disabled and I'm just trying to find a more comfortable way to work and use my cool computer. Thanks, joy

Ol'Tunzafun · June 30th, 2009, 11:14 PM

Hi Joy, welcome to TechIMO.
A modem basically just converts a digital signal for your computer, whereas a router will dispatch these signals to as many as 254 different machines. Your modem is a combo modem/router. All you really need to send a wireless connection to a laptop in another room is this item:
Walmart.com: Qwest W1000 DSL Wireless Expansion Module by Actiontec: Computers
How to install the W1000 wireless module for the the M1000 Qwest DSL Modem | eHow.com
A laptop is a good choice as it will almost certainly already have a wireless adapter built in.
All the instruction you need is found here:
Internet Help | Modems | Actiontec M1000 | Landing Page
That said, we are always here if you need us.
There are many ways to connect a laptop to a TV. S-Video connections work well enough and are rather common, though you may need a 1/8" stereo jack to dual RCA jacks for sound. These are also quite cheap and easily found at Radio Shack, but wait until you have the laptop in hand before buying adapters or cables.
If you already have the TV, you should consider what ports are available before buying a laptop.

joy · July 11th, 2009, 02:38 PM

Thank you so much 'Ol'Tunzafun'; I went right out and got a wireless module, slapped it on and was good to go in no time at all! I am still struggling with how to use my TV as a moniter with this laptop, if there is a way to do it, I just can't figure it out. The laptop is a new Dell XPS with no S-cable port. My TV is old (like me :-) 1989 Sony Trinatron, it has A/V jacks and a S-cable port, but nothing that resembles what's on the laptop. Connected to the TV is a Goldstar VCR/DVD player and an older (2004) Tivo. The Tivo has 2 USB ports, no idea what for..... I would really like to be able to use my TV as the moniter, my eyes are bad, and now they are sad, so if anyone can help I would be ever so grateful. Thanks a ton.
Joy

Imperion1 · July 11th, 2009, 05:10 PM

You would need something like this then.
Amazon.com: EFORCITY VGA to S-Video / RCA Adaptor: Electronics
Walmart doesn't sell it. Its a VGA (plug into laptop) to s-video & rca plug (tv side).
This only allows the video from the laptop to the tv. Only place I know of where this can be found is online. Best Buy would cost alot more than ordering one online. Unless you have a Fry's electronics or CompUSA near you. These would still cost more than online though.
You would also need to make sure the laptop will allow tv output.

With the audio, you would have to use the headphone rca plug on the laptop for sound. You could get a cable with the 1/8 rca plug on one end and the rca plugs on the other (plug the rca plugs into the audio input on the tv).
This can usually be found @ Walmart or Radio Shack.

Ol'Tunzafun · July 13th, 2009, 10:37 AM

The device that Imperion1 has suggested is certainly worth a try @ $8. The sound in an XPS is generally quite good so you will not likely need anything for that. The graphics in an XPS will support TV out on the digital stream; hopefully that applies to analog as well. The ideal situation now, would be to have a TV with HDMI which gives a much clearer image and manages the sound as well without additional hookups as are required with VGA and DVI.
Every XPS that I have seen has an S-Video port. Yours must be a newer, smaller unit like an M1330?

joy · July 13th, 2009, 05:12 PM

Hi Guys,
Thanks for the help. This has become a real adventure. The laptop is my daughters and yes, it's a new XPS M1330, I only get to play with it over the summer, if I decide I like having a laptop in addition to my 3 yr old Dell 6454 then I will probably look for a used/reconditioned laptop. The laptop is nice because it gives me the ability to move around in my house, thanks to your help with the wi-fi module! The Amazon.com: EFORCITY VGA to S-Video / RCA Adaptor: Electronics
you suggested looks like it will work I am concerned about the overwhelmingly negative feedback however. What do you gentlemen think about this: Amazon.com: NEW VGA to TV CONVERTER S-VIDEO+RCA OUT CABLE ADAPTER (only for graphic card have TV Out function): Electronics? It cost's a little more ($30) but it seems like it is more reliable, I might even be able to find a used one. Thanks again for all your help, I've learned alot from this experience so far.
ps: mr. Imperion 1, your avitar is SCARY! :-)