Entry-level modem speeds Historically, the least expensive dial-up modems transmitted data at which of the following rates?

Introduction / Context:
Dial-up modem technology progressed through a well-known sequence of standardized speeds: 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600 bit/s, and beyond. Early, low-cost acoustic-coupler and direct-connect modems commonly operated at the slowest rates due to analog line quality and electronics limitations.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are referencing historical consumer modem markets.
• “Cheapest” implies earliest, simplest models with minimal processing.
• Speeds are nominal bit rates over POTS lines.

Concept / Approach:
The earliest common standard was around 300 bit/s (Bell 103). Later standards such as V.22 (1200 bit/s) and V.22bis (2400 bit/s) improved speed but initially cost more. Therefore, entry-level and least expensive models in early eras were typically 300 bit/s units.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify historical baseline: 300 bit/s was the first widely adopted speed.Recognize later standards increased cost and complexity.Match “cheapest” with the earliest common standard.Select “300 bits per second.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Contemporary references and museum catalogs of computing hardware list 300 bit/s acoustic coupler modems as widely available and inexpensive compared to later, faster models when first released.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
1,200 / 2,400 / 4,800 bit/s: later standards; initially more expensive on release.

Common Pitfalls:

• Assuming present-day pricing applies to historical technology.
• Confusing nominal symbol rates with effective throughput (error correction/compression not considered here).
• Overlooking regional standard naming (Bell vs. CCITT/ITU-T).

Final Answer:
300 bits per second