Modem FAQs

Frequently asked questions about your connection

• I have a 56k modem but I only connect at 33.6k or slower
• How do I calculate my true transfer speed?
• I keep getting disconnected from InterComm

Answers:

I have a 56k modem but I only connect at 33.6k or slower  

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Here are a few of the variables that determine whether or not you will be able to connect at high speeds.

1. Your system configuration
2. The type of modem you use
3. Your modem driver
4. Com port settings
5. The quality of your phone lines

Your system needs to be configured with certain settings in order for your connection to work properly. These include settings within Dial-Up Networking and the Network section in the Control Panel. See our Online Setup Instructions page for details on setting up your system.

If you verified that your settings are correct and you are dialing the correct number, you might want to take a look at the modem driver. Many times the driver is outdated or not installed properly. The modem may seem to work properly, but installing a new, updated driver can solve a lot of problems. Below are the steps to check your driver for Windows 95/98.

1. On your main desktop right-click My Computer
2. Left-click Properties
3. Left-click the Device Manager tab at the top
4. Double left-click on Modem
5. Select the modem that appears below and left-click Properties
6. At the top of the box, left-click the Driver tab

You should see a provider name and the date the driver was installed. If the date is older than about 5-1998, or if it says that no driver files are necessary or installed, you should look for an updated driver. Many manufacturers place their driver files online to download. Write down the model name/number listed at the top of the Driver tab and search for the manufacturer online. Read all the online documentation to learn how to install the driver. If you can't find the drivers online, look through your documentation that came with your computer for information on contacting the manufacturer.

If the Com port your modem is installed on is set to a low speed, you may experience slow connections. To check the port speed, follow the instructions above for checking your modem driver. Click on the Modem tab and look at the Maximum speed setting. Make sure it is set to 57600 or higher. While on the Modem tab, note what Com port the modem is installed on. Click OK. Double-click on Ports, double-click on the Com port your modem is using. On the Port Settings tab, make sure the Bits per second is 57600 or higher.

The phone lines coming into your location may be too old to support 56k. Try plugging your modem into a different jack in the building or a different phone line. You can also test your line to see if it supports 56k.

How do I calculate my true transfer speed?  

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The speed Windows reports when establishing a connection is not necessarily your actual connection speed. Sometimes what is displayed is simply the highest speed at which your Com port is set. Using built-in software, you can detect your actual transfer speed.

I keep getting disconnected from InterComm  

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A common cause for disconnects is misconfigured settings. Look at our Online Setup Instructions to make sure your settings are correct. All dial-up accounts are unlimited, but not dedicated. In other words, you can use your connection as much as you want, but if you leave it connected for extended periods of time, your connection may be lost. We offer equal access to all customers.