Using communications programs

Some communications programs may interfere with each other when run at the same time (if, for example, you're browsing the Internet while receiving or sending a fax). An error message may appear, or one of the applications may freeze. Make sure that communications programs, such as a fax application, are not set to automatically answer incoming calls.

Using hardware handshaking

If your communications program has a hardware handshaking option, turn it on. In some communications programs, this is called flow control; in this case, select the Hardware option or enter the AT commands CTS & RTS (DTR).

Having your computer go to sleep

Many communications programs can be set up to check the modem port for incoming calls. If so, your computer will not go to sleep automatically (after the specified interval in the Energy Saver control panel). For more information, see the documentation that came with your communications program.

Setting the modem connect speed

Communications programs may ask you to set a maximum port speed as part of their setup procedure. The port speed indicates the speed at which the computer communicates with the modem. In most cases, you should set the maximum port speed to the highest speed available.

Resetting the modem to default factory settings

You can enter the modem initialization string "AT&F" to reset the modem to the default factory settings. You may be able to use this initialization string as the necessary setup information in a communications program that does not have a modem profile for your modem in its list of modems.

Note: This command string is part of a standard set of codes known as the AT command set. These commands are available in a Portable Document Format (PDF) file on your computer.

Related topic

Problems with remote connections