I've had this problem for sometime, but just ignored it as I could use the modem on my PC. My laptop has an Agrere Systems AC 97 modem, you can hear it connect and sync with the far end, but that's it you can't send or receive any data. My PC has a US Robotics V.92 and no problem with any system I remote into. I've stared and compared setting and see no issue there. Bottom line my question is has anyone used the external USB modems and how do they work for you for remote programming?

It may just be that you aren't seeing what is being sent/received on your screen. Try adding ATE1 to the modem's initialization string to allow all information sent and received to be displayed.

I gave up years ago on trying to get an internal laptop modem to connect with anything except the internet. I bought a USR 3056 PCMIA modem and have used it on the past 3 laptops. It connects to anything, without problems.

If Ed's suggestion doesn't work, you can probably find one on Ebay for $20.

Thanks.

I use a Multi-tech MT5656ZDX external modem with my desktop to access systems remotely and it works fine.

I still do alot of modem stuff to Comdial DSUIIs, DX-80s & 120s and to some Mitel switches.

When we got our service from PAETEC (T-1 using an IAD to split out the lines)---my modem stuff really went to hell. I had to get a regular C.O. line from AT&T and then use an external modem. I tried other carriers (PAETEC for one) and many modems. I now have it set up pretty good. I always had good luck with USR modems, but I now have a very inexpensive TrendNet one that works good. I like it alot because it's loud. I like to hear whats going on with the AA and how the handshake sounds.

If I want to try something for kicks and giggles, I use my internal modem on my laptop or my desktop. It always takes mabye 10 to 20 times (if at all) to get a good connection and get a good handshake.

So...my experience says: 1. Use and external modem and 2. Get a regular copper line from your LEC.

I've got a sneaking suspicion that some of my customers might have lines coming from an IAD and they may be a bit quirky----but I can't prove anything, and I guess I won't pursue it---because it takes too long to test this crap. Good luck!!

Thanks for the input everyone, modems are fairly cheap so I think I'll give the external modem a try.