Modems

[WAK]

System = Windows 98SE with ample RAM and Hard disk space.
I have an internally fitted HSP56 Micromodem (made by PCtel Inc.) which works perfectly with my ISP and the Internet but which cannot seem to connect properly with an ordinary phone line.
It dials out OK (as heard over the speakers) and naturally gives the engaged tone if the line is busy.
However, if the line is not busy, it still dials out OK and rings the telephone bell at the other end of the line but disconnects the modem as soon as the receiver is picked up.
The modem text log records BUSY if the line is engaged (as would be expected) but records NO CARRIER if the line is not engaged.
The problem is this. I subscribe to cable television run by ntl which also includes the telephone system and I wondered if the "NO CARRIER" referred to the telephone line or my modem?
Has anyone come across this problem before?
Any help or suggestion would be appreciated.
Regards,
WAK.

[morriswindgate]

Are you sure that it is hooked up for this purpose. For use this way, if memory serves me it should have a cable going from the Modem to the sound card.

[glc]

It would help if you could tell us why you are trying to dial a telephone with a modem - are you using PC Anywhere or something like that?

[WAK]

In reply to morriswingate: The modem is a voice/fax modem as supplied and should be connected ok inorder to use the telephone dial programs or fax also supplied.
In reply to glc: I'm trying to ring a toll-free number in order to register for ntlworld, a free internet ISP.
Thanks for your replies but I'm sure the telephone lines are somehow different when used with cable TV.

[azscary]

I have an internally fitted HSP56 Micromodem (made by PCtel Inc.)

Some of these modems are "virtual" modems which mean a lot of the functions are performed by the OS and not hardware. Also be sure that "Client for Microsoft Networks" and "TCP/IP" are both installed AND configured correctly.

[azscary]

Here is the link to the page where you can find a driver for that modem if you need it. If it is a .V90 modem and your ISP is NOT running .V90 then you need the init string to disable .V90.


http://www.pctel.com/downloads/drivers_agreement.htm

[glc]

Let me rephrase my questions - what is supposed to be at that toll-free number? Voice? BBS? Website? What software are you using to dial the modem? Hyperterminal? Dialup networking? Phone dialer?

[WAK]

In reply to azscary:- As far as I can ascertain, the TCP & MS networks are installed OK and I will try the new drivers later if all else fails. Thanks for that lead.
I have since read that NO CARRIER means that a carrier signal is missing which allows the transfer of a data signal? Any ideas what generates the carrier signal please?
In reply to glc:- I installed a CD rom disc from ntlworld (a free ISP through the digital TV and telephone system) in order to register. After following all instructions on screen, you click on NEXT to dial a toll-free number (which is not listed) presumably in order to sort out your Username and Password etc. The number dials out OK and if engaged, you get the busy tone and a redial, but if it isn't engaged, the number rings out then.....nothing. After 2 or 3 redials you get error messages to check phone line etc. The modem text log simply states NO CARRIER.
Apologies for the late reply. I sent one last night which obviously didn't get through as it's not listed.

[SARGE]

If the software has an option to use ISP connection to register, use that. Any I've ever registered always has a window for you to choose an option.

[azscary]

If the server you are trying to reach does not support v.90 or if there is line noise, or more than 1 or 2 A/D (Analog to Digital) converters between you and the other end you may have to use Modem Init Strings to disable v.90 in your modem.

[WAK]

Thanks Sarge and Azscary for the info. I've downloaded the new drivers and will try those and the other suggestions out tomorrow and report back.
Thanks again.
WAK.

[WAK]

Hello folks, Loaded the new drivers, no difference. Just been on the phone to NTL about the internet service and guess what, they sent out all the registration discs and haven't switched the system on yet in my area so it's no wonder I couldn't get through to them on the modem. I'll try again in a couple of days but in the meantime, thanks for all your help and interest. I'll sign off this forum for now but I may be back!!!!. Thanks again for the info on modems.

[azscary]

I am glad I am not the only one that gets caught with my pants down when I find it is the SIMPLE things I overlooked. I overtech this computer and overlook the simple stuff. Go figure!!