These days Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and IT companies alike are able to offer a combined unit containing both a modem and router. The concept seems like a simple and cheap solution to those who have trouble networking (i.e. attaching devices together by cords), or who simply don't want to deal with the headache of it all and would rather plug something in and surf away as soon as possible. On the flipside, for those who understand the way Internet and computers work, the idea of a combined unit poses trouble.
The problems with putting a modem and router into one box can be many. Generally these types of devices are built and sold to consumers who want a 'quick fix' at the lowest price. It can be concluded, and it certainly has been proven, that going with the lowest bidder is not always the most advantageous investment in the long run. To begin, when something goes down, it will be hard to find out what, or where the exact issue is; is it the router acting strange or is the modem at fault? A technical guru might have to tear the case, if not the box itself, apart to find out the story. In that case, it might be more beneficial to just buy a whole new device. When running a network, you can also reset one device when they are separated and not have the entire system go down. Or, in cases where one device decides to go down on its own, you can be sure the other component is still keeping your connections intact.
Upgrades are a common part of our computer-driven world today, so one should expect that parts here and there will have to be replaced as their life cycle begins to wane. It may be that router standards and wireless features within it will move a step ahead while modems could be moving in another direction, or at a standstill as far as anyone can predict. Keeping your devices separate will allow a lot of flexibility in upgrades and meeting up to industry standards. You'll also be able to maintain the highest speed levels without incurring the loss of replacing an entire unit.
When it comes time to switch ISPs or Internet connections all together (say, from DSL to cable) your combined unit will again not be of much use to you. If you own your own separate modem and router you'll be able to get them to communicate much more easily with your new ISP and, since set-up with a new service always involves surprises, troubleshooting will be a breeze if the 'help-me' rep from the company knows exactly where the problem lies.
If you run streaming video, or use your machines extensively, you'll also always have to beware of overheating in a combined unit. Since you have the box carrying out so much more 'work', it is more likely to go down faster when temperatures rise. It some cases, it might only be the low-capacity modem within the combo unit that is causing the problem. If it were separate from the router you would not only decrease the chances of overheating, but you would also be able to replace the modem with a better version more easily. Not only that, but the 'sharing' of power and resources (such as RAM memory) in the box will be more likely to create longer wait times for pages to load as you surf.
Sure, having a combined unit is easier on the unlearned, and perhaps more tidy than running a bunch of wires through devices here and there, but the costs and implications may not be worth it. If you have to, pay the extra fees to have someone set up the network on your behalf.
Power Tool Router
Special Price!!! DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets
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DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Feature
- 2-1/4 maximum hp, 12-amp electronic variable-speed motor provides power to rout smoothly through toughest hardwoods
- Electronic variable-speed with full feedback control for constant speed under load from 8,000-24,000 rpm
- Micro-fine depth-adjustment ring provides precise depth adjustments in 1/64-inch increments
- Adjustable, tool-free steel motor cam lock makes depth adjustment and base changes quick and solid-locking
- Integral, through-the-column dust collection collects 95 percent of dust and provides superior bit visibility
DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Overview
Featuring a 12.0 Amp motor that delivers variable speed performance from 8,000 to 24,000 RPM, the DeWalt DW618PK 2-1/4 HP Router with a fixed base and a plunge base offers all the power and versatility that professionals demand. Soft start provides an extra-smooth finish and helps ensure that this tool even performs well when working with the toughest hardwoods. With a micro-fine depth adjus ent ring, you can count on accurate adjus ent in 1/64-inch increments, while a clear, Lexan sub-base ensures durability and visibility. The included sub-base concentricity gauge enhances accuracy even further by helping you maintain bit concentricity, and long, eight-slot collets that are self-releasing provide excellent bit retention for dependability. A steel motor cam lock and quick-release motor latches make adjus ents and base changes tool-free, fast and easy when you need to switch tasks, and a unique, detachable cordset helps keep this tool easy to service.DEWALT DW618PK 12 AMP 2-1/4 HP Plunge- and Fixed-Base Variable-Speed Router Kit with 1/4-Inch and 1/2-Inch Collets Specifications
Featuring a 12 amp variable-speed, soft-start motor, the DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch Fixed-Base/Plunge-Base Router Combo Kit is packed with smart design features that make routing easy. Depth adjustment and base changes are tool free, and integrated dust control keeps work spaces clean and improves cut line visibility.
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The 2-1/4-horsepower, 12 amp motor allows the router to cut through the toughest hardwoods. The router's electronic variable-speed trigger lets you select from between 8,000 and 24,000 rpm for specific applications. And because this system employs full electronic feedback, you can trust the router to provide constant speed under load. In addition, the motor's soft start reduces start-up torque for optimum control.
The router's fixed base features a micro-fine depth-adjustment ring that provides precise bit adjustments in 1/64-inch increments. Because the ring--not the motor can--turns to adjust bit depth, a constant switch/cordset location is maintained when you are using the router in a table. This minimizes difficulty in turning the unit on and off and keeps operation consistent.
The plunge base features an adjustable five-position turret stop for use when making repeated plunge cuts. The easy-to-reach plunge-release lever and switch keep control at your fingertips during routing.
Quick, Secure Base and Bit Changes
The clear, LEXAN sub-base offers optimum bit visibility and base durability, and it accepts standard template-guide bushings to make application-specific setups easy. Also, a sub-base concentricity gauge is included. If you insert this into the collet prior to bit installation, it will help you center the sub-base relative to bit location when making your cut line off of the side of the base.
Moreover, the sub-base and other included bases are designed to make both base and bit changes easy. Quick-release motor latches allow for fast and easy motor-pack removal, while a spindle-lock button allows for single-wrench bit changes. The fixed base also offers a flat top, so the router can be set upside down for easy bit and depth changes. Additionally, long, self-releasing, eight-slotted collets provide improved bit retention and prevent bits from jamming.
Built for Consistency and Durability
Routing applications produce a lot of dust, which can result in extra wear and tear on electronic parts. That's why this system features a dust-sealed switch that protects against dust ingestion for longer tool life. Other components that contribute to the tool's overall consistency and durability include heavy-duty metal housings, precision-machined brass bushings, and case-hardened steel guide rods on the plunge base.
Comfortable Operation with Integrated Dust Control
Each base features comfortable rubber over-molded handles and a low center of gravity for improved balance and control and reduced user fatigue. The base also has a patented through-the-column dust-collection system. This allows a vacuum to be attached to the router without blocking your line of sight.
In addition, this router kit offers you the ability to work with the switch and cordset on either your left or right side. Also contributing to this setup's usability is a detachable cordset that can be easily serviced. A shorty cord motor pack is not required if you opt to place the motor can in a D-Handle base.
The DW618PK DEWALT 2-1/4-Inch EVS Fixed Base/ Plunge Base Router Combo Kit with Soft Start is backed by a three-year limited warranty.
What's in the Box
DW618M motor pack, DW6184 fixed base, DW6182 plunge base, 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch collets, wrench, sub-base concentricity gauge, large-hole sub-base, vacuum adapter, and kit box.
 Everything stays safe and secure in the durable kit box. |
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