Resolve Modem, Fax, and Internet Connection Problems

NOTICE: Connect the modem to an analog line only. Connecting your modem to a nonanalog line, such as a digital or private branch exchange (PBX) line, will cause damage.

NOTE: If you can connect to your Internet service provider (ISP) and send or receive a fax, your modem is functioning properly. If you are sure that your modem is working properly and you still experience problems connecting to your ISP, contact the ISP technical support department for assistance.

Ensure that you have touchtone telephone service.

If you have call-waiting service, disable call-waiting. Refer to your local telephone directory or call your telephone service provider for information on temporarily disabling call-waiting.

If you have voice mail service, you may hear an irregular dial tone when you have messages. Contact your telephone service provider for information on restoring a normal dial tone.

If you have any other telephone devices plugged into this line, such as answering machines, dedicated fax machines, or line splitters, bypass them and plug the modem cable directly into the telephone connector on the wall.

Reseat the cable connections.

Try a different cable; if you are using a cable that is 10 feet or more in length, try a shorter one.

Disconnect the cable from the modem and plug it directly into a telephone. Listen for a dial tone.

Line noise can cause low connection speeds. If you have persistent problems, try connecting the modem to a different telephone connector. You may also wish to contact your telephone company to report the problem.

If you still have problems with a Dell-provided modem, call Dell for technical assis- tance. See Chapter 4, “Getting Help,” for instructions. If you have problems with a non-Dell-provided modem, call the modem manufacturer.

Resolve PC Card Problems

Ensure that the PC Card is properly inserted into the connector.

Ensure that the card is recognized by the Windows operating system:

1.Click the Start button, point to Settings, and then click Control Panel.

2.Double-click the PC Card (PCMCIA) icon.

3.Ensure that the card is listed in the PC Card (PCMCIA) Properties window.

If you still have problems with a Dell-provided PC Card, call Dell for technical assis- tance. See Chapter 4, “Getting Help,” for instructions. If you have problems with a non-Dell-provided PC Card, call the card manufacturer.

2-18 Dell Inspiron 5000 Reference and Troubleshooting Guide

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Dell 5000 manual Resolve Modem, Fax, and Internet Connection Problems, Resolve PC Card Problems