COM 3 and COM 4 not available?!?

[Typhon]

I am trying to install a Creative Labs Internal PCI Modem Blaster 56K. The install CD does not contain any drivers for the modem (however it does contain 4 different software bundles and a nice uninstall for a Rockwell modem.) Using the Win 98 “add new hardware” feature, it steps through the process nicely says that it has found the Creative Labs Modem and installs it. The problem is that it will only let me install the modem to COM 1, COM 2, or Printer Port, which of course the modem is not located. I am not sure how to allow Win 98 to give me the option of COM 3 or 4. I’m stuck here. Any ideas? Thanks.

[Jenni]

Unless you use a serial mouse or some other serial port device, what is wrong with installing it to COM1 or COM2?

[Typhon]

It is an internal modem. COM 1 and COM 2 are for exteranl modems. Trust me, I have tried it it all three options that was given only to get a "modem not detected error" Every other internal modem I have installed came with install drivers that placed the modem on COM 3 or 4. I just don't have that option by going through windows.

[Jenni]

My SupraExpress internal modem works just fine on COM2. You install the modem to COM1 or COM2, then remove the port from the device manager and disable it in BIOS. Other than that, if you have to have it on COM3 or COM4, you may have to add the port through the Add New Hardware. I've seen a couple of modems that had to have the port listed in the Device Manager before they would install to it.

[glc]

This is not one of those modems that need the port installed first. This is a software controlled modem and it uses a "virtual" com port. If you can't find the driver on the CD, go to http://www.digicomsys.com/support/support_downloads.asp to get it AND the installation instructions..

You are strongly advised to remove Com 2 from device manager and disable it in the BIOS before installing that modem. The best place for that modem is indeed on Com 2. You do NOT use the "add new hardware" wizard to install this modem - it will be found by "plug and play" when you start it up.

[LawyerRon]

Typhon,
I just installed 2 of those modems and they were the EASIEST modems I ever installed. The drivers should be on the Creative CD. I'm not at home right now, but later if you're still having problems, I'll get the CD out and try to help you further.

Also, glc's advice is correct, follow it to get the ports right.

[Typhon]

Thanks Gang! The "add new hardware" wizard is evil, don't know why it could not find the drivers neccessary from the CD-ROM. On reboot "plug and play" found the device and the drivers off the CD-ROM. (go figure) Everything seems to be A-Ok now. Final Comment, I did not have to remove the COM 2 port to get the modem to work.

:)
Ty

[LawyerRon]

Ty,
Good job, glad to see you got it working. You can literally spend DAYS trying to get a modem working unless you know a couple of simple tricks. Now you know.