Using Windows 98SE, the first time I try to connect to the internet after starting my computer, about 90% of the time the port opens but the modem doesn’t dial. I have to click “Cancel” on the dial up connection then click “Connect” again, and then about 90% of the time it goes as far as “Verifying user name and password” and hesitates a long time there, then says “Failed to connect with remote computer. Unable to establish a connection.” About half the time it will connect on the second try, and the rest of the time it will take up to 4 more tries. It always goes as far as “Verifying…” and I hear over the modem speaker that the connection has been made. Rarely, I get fully connected on the first try. This no-dialing problem only occurs on the first attempt to connect after a reboot or a cold start. If I disconnect and try to dial up again without rebooting, two or more tries are usually needed.
Occasionally, after I get connected I can’t send or receive email and no web pages will show up. This is usually, but not always, curable by rebooting. If I call the ISP to see if there is a problem on their end, 90% of the time they say no. Sometimes the email works but the browser won’t, and other times, ICQ and other chat programswork but the email and browser will not.
This modem is pretty good, otherwise; it rarely disconnects without being asked to do so. It has lasted longer than any other I’ve had. It’s an internal ISA 56k V.90 voice/data/fax modem from Taiwan. Askey is the brand name. I’ve tried removing and reinstalling it a number of times, to no avail. Have done the same with the dial-up connection.
Is there a possible solution short of getting a new modem? I’d like to get a new one but presently unable to afford that option.
