Why does my modem keep dropping connection?

zNET's terminal server will drop your connection only for excess idle time. There is nothing about the Internet that will cause modem disconnects. But any number of problems can occur between your modem and ours.

Modem brands are not entirely 100% compatible. A modem initialization string that works well for connecting your modem to a USR, for instance, may not work for establishing a problem-free connection to a Hayes. A simple change in the initialization string will often fix that problem.

Furthermore, some modems (such as certain older models of the USR Sportster) have bugs. For instance, one version of the Sportster will drop carrier if the connect speed drops below a certain level.

Port speed also matters. Setting it above the recommended level can cause problems.

• If you have call waiting, be sure that it is disabled.
• There should be no fax software running in the background, or anything else that might compete for the modem's comm port.
• Check your modem manual for the recommended port speed.
• Check your modem manual for the initialization string that sets your modem to its factory default settings.
• Upgrade to the latest ROM revision.
• Check all cables and connections and be sure that the modem itself is not getting too hot.
• Additional devices on the same line can cause problems. Remove any additional fax, modem or answering machine.
• Try using MNP error correction, rather than v.42. See your modem manual for details.
• It is possible that low-level noise is present on the telephone lines. Noise need not be audible for it to cause problems with high-speed data transmission.

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