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If Something Goes Wrong

Develop good computing habits

 

 

 

Check the port settings to make sure the hardware and software are referring to the same COM port (look in Device Manager under Modems for the built-in modem).

Check the communications parameters (baud rate, parity, data length and stop bits) specified in the communications program. It should be set up to transmit at 300, 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 14400, 28800, 33600 bps (bits per second) or higher. Refer to the program’s documentation and the modem manual for information on how to change these settings.

The modem is on, set up properly and still will not transmit or receive data.

Make sure the line has a dial tone. Connect a telephone handset to the line to check this.

The other system may be busy or off line. Try making a test transmission to someone else.

Develop good computing habits

Make sure you are prepared.

Save your work frequently.

You can never predict when your computer will lock, forcing you to close a program and lose unsaved changes. Many software programs build in an automatic backup, but you should not rely solely on this feature. Save your work! See “Computing tips” on page 69 for instructions.