That is a "standard' analog modem that can be connected to an analog (voice) telephone line.  It will function as "data modem" for internet connectivity to a dial-up internet service provider, it will function as a "fax modem" for sending and receiving faxes over the analog telephone line and finally it can be used as a voice telephone over an analog voice line (although a PC makes a very poor voice telephone).

Hello all.I have just purchased the Dell Inspirion 1501 laptop and according to this one I cannot get online at all.I know there is a wi-fi 1390 wireless modem,there is also a ethernet 10  100 broadcom or DSL modem.I have only a simple dial up internet through Worldnet ATT.This computer I am on now ,it has a pcmia modem that lets me connect my phone line to.Is there a way to put this pcmia modem into my dell inspirion 1501 ?I don't know what else to do.I guess that new laptop is about as much use as a big ole paper weight.Any help out there would be greatly appriciated.

                        Toasted in Tacoma,

                               Rodney