Once DirecPC knows what sites and newsgroups I frequent, it will update subscriptions on a daily and sometimes hourly basis.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag

However, DirecPC tries to deliver the next best thing to a persistent connection by offering a service called an Electronic Program Guide.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag

Because DirecPC is still tethered to phone-line modems for Web page and e-mail requests, I must dial into my regular Internet service provider to get started online.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag

In theory, if I leave my computer on, DirecPC will automatically blast down to my computer any one of 26 predefined Web sites and any of 30, 000 newsgroups.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag

Worse, I found that if DirecPC failed to update the site on my hard disk because of a glitch in its service, or I didn't leave my computer on, the news would be a day old.

CNN: Satellite access a mixed bag