A+: Analog Modem Installation

The method used for physical installation of the modem varies with the modem type. To install a PCI modem, follow these steps:

Step 1. Take ESD precautions. (See Chapter 17, “Safety and Environmental Issues,” for details.)
Step 2. Open the system and locate an empty slot of the appropriate type.
Step 3. Remove the screw holding the slot cover in place.
Step 4. Remove the slot cover.
Step 5. Install the modem into the slot and fasten it into place with the screw previously used to secure the slot cover.
Step 6. Connect an RJ-11 telephone cable running from the telephone jack in the wall to the line connection.
Step 7. If desired, plug a telephone into the telco jack.
Step 8. Close the system and restart it.
Step 9. Install drivers as required.

You can drive yourself crazy trying to make a connection with your modem if you plug the RJ-11 telephone cord into the wrong jack. There are actually three ways to make this mistake:

• Plugging the RJ-11 cord into the phone jack instead of the line or telco jack on the modem
• Plugging the RJ-11 cord into the slightly larger RJ-45 jack used for 10/100/1000 Ethernet networking
• Plugging the RJ-11 cord into a HomePNA network card (which also has two RJ-11 jacks) instead of the modem

If you use the HomePNA network, check the network documentation for the correct way to connect your network card and your modem to the telephone line.

To install a PC Card modem, use these steps:

Step 1. Slide the PC Card modem into an empty PC Card slot of the appropriate type (Type II or Type III).

Step 2. After the operating system indicates the modem has been detected, attach the dongle (if appropriate).

Step 3. If the dongle has an RJ-11 plug, connect it to the telephone wall jack.

Step 4. For modems with a pop-out RJ-11 jack, release the jack.

Step 5. Connect an RJ-11 telephone cable between the RJ-11 connector on the PC Card or dongle and the wall jack.

Step 6. Install drivers as required.

To install an external modem, follow these steps:

Step 1. Connect the modem to a USB or serial port as appropriate.

Step 2. Connect the modem to AC power and turn it on (if necessary).

Step 3. If the modem is not detected automatically, use the operating system’s modem dialog in the Control Panel to detect the modem and install its drivers.