no dial tone

Start by going to Control Panel / Modems.
Click on the Diagnostics tab.
Select your modem,
Click on more information.

If everything is fine, the drivers are loaded properly, and the basic hardware is functioning.

If there are errors, you may need to install a new or different driver for your modem.

Also, look at device manager. (System Properties) (Right click My Computer and select properties)
Any "?" or "!" ?
These marks point to driver problems that need to be fixed before your PC will function properly.
For a laptop, your only source is going to be Compaq for driver files.

Finally, double check the phone line and cords.

Chas

Reconfigure your internet setup.

Hi,

Yep, do as TheChas suggests to fix it, but I believe there is a checkbox on the connection properties sheet somewhere that says something like "Wait for dial tone before dialing"

You can appropriately check this check box to dial regardless. I've used it a couple of times when the same message has been reported to me, before I fixed it more permanently....

Cheers,
Tim.

It has been my experience that every time windows tells me that there is no dial tone, it is because their isn't one.... Plug a phone into the same plug that the modem is plugged into now and see if you hear one.... Make sure your cable is ok...

If you modem has two ports make sure your phone cable is connected to the incoming port and not a telephone passthough port. Check that you are not dialing to disable call waiting if you do not have call waiting. If you have a stand alone FAX machine remove it from the phone lines and retest. Phones over 30 years old introduce noise into the lines. Does your modem line run close to any electical devices, or magnetic devices? Is your outside phone lines loose as it connects to the pole or house? Quick test for line quality pick up your phone receivier put it to your ear hit the any key except 0 and listen. If you hear any noise, static, clicks, hissing, or voices those noises may prevent the modem from "hearing" the dial tone. Hug your mother for mother's day.

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