IBM 2193, 6345, 2194 Setting up communications, Connecting your modem to the telephone network

Setting up communications

If your computer has a fax/data modem, it can communicate with other computers and fax machines.

Some IBM personal computers have a modem already installed. However, if your computer package comes with a modem but it is not installed, open the system and install the modem first. Refer to sections “Opening the system unit” on page 7-5 and “Adding and removing adapter cards” on page 8-4 for instructions.

Before your computer can use its modem, you must complete the procedures in the following sections:

•“Connecting your modem to the telephone network”

•“Configuring your communications software”

Connecting your modem to the telephone network

Modems are designed to operate over the public switched telephone network (PSTN or PSN). This is an analog network commonly used by most households. Connect the modem to an analog network only. If you are not sure about your telephone line, contact your local telephone company.

Before you connect your modem to a telephone network, read the safety notices in “Safety information” on page xiii.

Attention!

•Excessive voltages can occur on telephone lines, especially during lightning storms. To avoid any possible damage to sensitive electronic parts, unplug the computer and the telephone cords during such storms.

•Some businesses, schools, and buildings have digital telephone systems, known as digital private branch exchange (PBX) systems. These systems do not work with the modem. Connecting your modem to a digital telephone system might damage the modem.

4-10IBM Personal Computer User Guide