4 Troubleshooting
Common Problems
You may encounter the following problems:
•The modem does not respond to commands.
•The modem dials but is unable to make a connection.
•The modem disconnects while online.
•The modem cannot connect when answering.
•File transfer appears slower than it should be.
•Data is being lost.
•There are garbage characters on the monitor.
•Fax and communications software won’t run at the same time.
If you experience problems, please check the following possibilities before calling Technical Support (see Chapter 5).
The modem does not respond to commands
•Make sure you are in terminal mode in your data communications program; then type AT and press ENTER. If you get an OK response, your connections are good. The problem likely is in the connection description in your communications software.
•Reset your modem by sending it an ATZ or AT&F command in terminal mode. If using legacy software (software designed for an older operating system), make sure the initialization string includes &F as the first command to cancel any leftover commands that could interfere with the modem’s operation.
•If you don’t get an OK, the problem may still be in the communications software. Make sure you have done whatever necessary in your software to make a port connection. Most legacy (prior to Windows 95) communications programs connect to the COM port when the software loads and remain connected until the program terminates. Some can disconnect without exiting the program. If this is the case, try issuing the software’s connection command. Also, if more than one communications program is open, they can conflict with each other. Make sure all other communications programs are closed and then try again.
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