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How to Really Install a Modem
By Stephen Bucaro
Most motherboards now come with sound, video, and even networking built-in. But a
modem is not usually built-in to a motherboard. This is because modem technology has
been changing very rapidly. It is preferable to have the modem on an expansion card.
Most modem manuals assume that Plug and Play will automatically install the modem
correctly, but this is rarely the case. Use the four steps described below to
properly install a modem.
Step 1. Download the latest driver from the manufacturer’s Web site.
Most modems come with an Installation CD. The problem with this is that the CD
contains drivers for eight different operating systems and it usually tries to
install the wrong one. Even if it does install the correct driver, its usually not
the latest version. Also, the CD usually comes with several non-essential programs
(AOL etc.) that the modem company earns commission on when you install them.
I admit, its difficult to download a driver before you install the modem. You may be
replacing an old modem, or you may have another computer, or a friend with a computer
with access to the Web.
Preferably, do this before you purchase the new modem. That way you can see what kind
of driver and technical support is available for the modem before you shell out the cash.
Step 2. If you are replacing a modem, remove the old modem.
First physically open the case and remove the old modem. Then start the computer and
remove the modem in Control Panel. If the system is Windows 2000 you will have to
login as Administrator. Open the Modems utility, select the name of the modem on the
General tab. Then click on the Remove button.
Step 3. Install the new modem.
First physically install the new modem. If the system is Windows 2000 you will have
to login as Administrator. Plug and Play may install the new modem for you, that
means it found an old driver on your system and used that to install the modem. Or it
may start the "Add New Hardware Wizard". Click on the Cancel button.
The "Add New Hardware Wizard" is rarely able to find the proper driver for a modem,
and when the Wizard appears as the computer starts, it blocks your access to Explorer,
so you can’t use Explorer to locate a driver. Just click on the Cancel button to
close the Wizard.
After Windows starts you can open the "Add New Hardware Wizard". The Wizard will
attempt to detect any new hardware. Then it will give you the option to "select the
hardware from a list." Choose the option to select from a list, then click the Next
button. In the list select "modem" and click on the Next button. Then it will give
you the option to let windows "try to detect your modem" or "select the modem from a list".
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