An idle question !

As I have to make do with a 56K modem, I usually get a download speed of around 3.5 k/s. A few times recently, and just about all night tonight, I've noticed that when I have say 3 MP3 downloads going at the same time, the combined download speed rises to between 4.5 and 5 k/s. When 2 of the downloads finish and there's just 1 again, it drops down to around 3.5 again.

Just wondering.........

Your download speed is limited to the slowest link in the chain. That's why you will have different download speeds even though your equipment and phone line doesn't change.

I'm going to move this to the Open to All Topics forum for you.

Fawlty, you say the download speed is limited to the slowest link in the chain.

This still doesn't explain why if I have one download, I generally get around 3.5 k/s but if I have three concurrent downloads of say 1 k/s, 2 k/s and 1.5 k/s, this would appear to increase my download capabilities.

One reason, green_blade, could be that a maximum singular download speed has been set by the server but you're combined downloads go faster than this. One way you could tell is if other downloads are available at higher speeds.

Otherwise I would put it down to the way tcp/ip transfers in windows, not the most reliable.

HTH, T.

If you look at any download program like flashget they split the file up into several pieces as this makes for a quicker download (or so they say). I've never really looked into why but multiple connections always seem to increase the transfer rate.

maximum capacity of your modem is 56k/6seconds, which makes app. 9.3k per second. Don't get happy now, this is only possible under the farmost ideal conditions, which will NEVER appear in real life.

Therefore, it is possible to go over the usual 3.5k

By the way... 3.5k with your 56K modem??? GET A NEW PROVIDER!!!!
This is a disgrace... i had a 56K for years, downloading at app. 7K/sec. (using twin line ISDN now, registered downloading topspeed at 23K/sec!)

Anyway, this low rate has obviously to do with eighter your provider, or a poor conidtion of the line in your home. Make sure your PC is connected to a primairy telephone line, as close as possible to the wall connection. (so use a cable that is preferably as short as possible!)

I don't doubt what you're saying Merlin but everyone I know with a 56K gets around 3.5 k/s.

Maybe it's a sign of the times, they cram down the modem users to force them to go elsewhere. Unfortunately cable hasn't reached us yet !

3.5k is a bit low mate. A good speed for a 56k is about 5.5k, thats about the most you will ever see unless you are downloading something that can be compressed well. Perhaps its just a poor comms provider if everyone in the area is getting those sorts of speeds.