What does the term "modem" stand for in communications equipment?

The term "modem" stands for "Modulator-Demodulator." This definition reflects the primary function of a modem in communications systems. A modem serves two key roles: it modulates digital signals from a computer into analog signals that can be transmitted over telephone lines or other transmission mediums, and it demodulates incoming analog signals back into digital signals that the computer can process.

This dual capability allows for effective communication over various forms of media, making modems crucial for enabling data transfer across networks. Understanding the functions of modulation and demodulation is essential for anyone working with communications equipment, as it underpins how data is transmitted and received between devices.