Rod, at 07:55 on Apr 23 1996, you wrote to Bill Grimsley...

RS> You really want to try graphing the ATY11 data, is a HELL of an eye
RS> opener and there is a VERY clear correlation between thruput and the
RS> shape of the curve and the S/N data if you understand the principles.

BG> I understand the principles just fine thanks,

RS> Nope, or you wouldnt have made that comment about the 1-2db being crucial.

No, I said (or implied) that reducing the signal by 6dB is effectively
halving it, and that with my poor lines, as little as 1-2dB can mean the
difference between a successful 28800 connect and not.  I'm well aware that
the S/N ratio is also a critical factor, but can't comment on mine because
the Sportster's ROM doesn't tell me what it is.

RS> Thats NOT the problem with your line, the problem is the pronounced slope. 

Poor bandwidth at high frequencies.  Yeah, I know that already.

RS> AND you db level clearly cant have anything to do with the atrocious 
RS> handshaking problems you had if a rom change in the Sportster can fix them 
RS> completely.

Dunno, USR maintain that the code in the latest EPROM had been improved to
the point that most people who weren't already seeing full-speed connects
would be noting an increase of between 2400-4800 bps for those calls, and
this is precisely what I found here once I'd fitted it.

BG> but the Sportster doesn't give a reading for
BG> the S/N ratio, which is a bit of a shame really.

RS> Yeah, particularly when its such a crucial factor with
RS> V34, particularly when the bandwidth isnt very good.

Exactly, and I never suggested otherwise.

RS> Odd that Easter affected the fundys so badly. You do
RS> realise that Dave Hatch is some form of fundy dont you ?

BG> Oh really?  Tell me more...

RS> I think he might actually a sort of minister, but works as
RS> well. One of his BBSs was Ministry Support Group or close.

Of course, I remember that name now!  I never really thought about it though.

RS> Presumably the bible basher/Jovey end of fundy but I dont know that.

I'm glad you didn't say "harmless evangelist", or similar. 
People who need an emotional crutch or a reason to justify their brief
existence have always worried me a little.  The Mormons are a real worry
too, and if you've ever spoken at length to one of these crazies, or read
any of their books, you'll understand why.  Dead set fucking weird, with a
capital W.

Regards, Bill

--- Msgedsq/2 3.20