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New modem - do I need to change drivers?

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14 replies

by lt1transamgt 1 view

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Currently I have a generic 33.6 external modem on a system and the modem is not always functioning corectly. I would like to replace it with another external. Do I need to change the drivers for the new modem to work or it I keep the ports and everything the same will the new modem just work? Do I need to stay with 33.6 and should I get Hayes or any brand?

14 replies

by koaung

If you change a new modem,You must installed a new modem driver on your system.You should get any cheap and latest brand.Good luck!

by paulp

Existing modem drivers MAY work for a new modem, but I advise against it. You will not be able to take advantage of all the features of the new modem.

When you aquire your new modem, remove your existing modem from the Device Manager. Power down the PC, remove the modem from the serial port and re-boot the computer.

Follow the manufacturers instructions for installing the new modem.
I like U.S. Robotics (3Com) Sportster modems.

by alpha-male

Whilke generic drivers *may* work with your modem, I would highly recommend you install the drivers that come with the new modem.

As far as brands go, there are many that are good and different people have different preferences. The one I most consistently here positives about is US Robotics...though I would go with one of the hardware modems, not a winmodem. I personally also liked Supra and Cardinal modems (though they have been purchased now).

Good luck!

by alpha-male

There are also a lot of USB External modems these days and they certainly *can* be winmodems. These can be convenient as they free up your serial ports (and you can use 127 USB devices).

by deeda

I would highly recommend to remove your current modem and install the new one fresh! It would just make it easier in the long run!

by thechas

My 2 cents worth:

Make sure to remove the old modem from Control Panel / Modems before installing the new modem.
Even if you remove the old modem from device manager, it may still be listed in the modems section.

Hayes no longer exists. Theywere purchased by ZOOM.

An external serial modem WILL be a hardware modem.

I recommend checking the modem manufactures web site, and seeing how well they support their products before choosing a new modem.

Chas

by csmith

The serial port driver for the external MODEM will remain the same, and the new MODEM will use a different driver.
After you remove the MODEM From Device Manager and then remove the MODEM, remember to boot once without any MODEM. This will insure that Windows will later properly recognise the new MODEM , once the install progeram is run.
Regards, Chris

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