Reference number: CH000417

Installing an Internal PC computer modem.

Question:

Installing an Internal PC computer modem.

Answer:

Buying tips and help
How to determine the type of modem
Before getting started
Set Jumpers
Install into Expansion slot
Attach cables
CMOS setup
Software setup

Buying tips and help

If you have not already purchased a modem please see our modem tips section help before continuing.

How to determine the type of modem

Additional information about how to determine the type of modem is in the computer can be found on document CH000496.

Before getting started

1. Difficulty of installing computer processor should be a 2 out of 5.
2. Write down important information from the top or bottom of the card such as the Model Number, Serial Number and specifications.
3. Ensure you are familiar with ESD and its potential dangers.
4. When physically installing the modem, ensure the computer is powered down and unplugged.

Set Jumpers

Today, the majority of modems no longer require that jumpers be set. Most computer modems support Plug and Play or software configuration. This allows the computer modem to be automatically detected and configured through software. If your modem has jumpers, ensure that the jumpers are set properly or if supported by the hardware and by the Operating system verify that the jumpers are set to Plug and Play or Software mode.

Additional information about jumpers can be found on our jumpers page.

Install into Expansion slot

Today modem cards are cable of connecting into an ISA, PCI AMR or CRN slot. Locate an available slot within the computer and gently push the card into the slot until it snaps and holds place. Once the card is in the slot, place a screw into the top of the card to hold the card into position.

Additional information about the computer bus or Expansion slots can be found on our computer hardware bus page.

Attach cables

Most computer modems will not have any additional cables required or included. If your modem includes cables, it is likely that the cables are used for outputting the sound to the speakers. Generally, this cable will connect to your sound card / motherboard (when onboard sound is present) / DVD decoder card.

CMOS setup

The modem utilizes a serial or COM interface and it is generally required that the interface be setup or enabled in CMOS. After the computer modem has been installed in the computer, place the case back onto the computer and connect the keyboard, monitor and power to the computer (we recommend that you do not connect all the cables yet, if problems are experienced you may have to disconnect all the cables again).  Turn the computer back on and as it begins booting, enter CMOS setup. Verify that the serial interface / COM ports are enabled or setup as the port that you wish the modem to be setup on.

Additional help and information about CMOS can be found on our CMOS page.

Software Setup

Once the modem has been physically installed and setup in CMOS, the drivers and any additional software must be installed for the modem to work properly.

Links to computer modem drivers can be found here.

Troubleshooting

If additional issues are encountered during or after the installation of the Modem, please refer to our main modem page for additional help and information.