One way to identify the type of modem driver installed on an IBM compatible computer for a particular modem is by using HyperTerminal. This is standard software that comes with Windows 95, 98, Me, NT, 2000, and XP. To set-up HyperTerminal so that it will begin communicating with the computer modem, go to Start, Programs, Accessories, Communications, and then HyperTerminal. Once the software has been opened it will take you to a window that requires the consumer to provide a name for the connection and to select an icon for it. After this has been done, a new window will pop-up that displays the icon, name, and a drop down list titled "connect using" of which the port the modem is connected to needs to be selected, not the modem itself. When the port has been selected the window will provide a new list of choices to select from that includes: bits per second, data bits, parity, stop bits, and flow control. If the modem is a 56K modem then the bits per second selection needs to be set at 57600 or 115200. Leave the remaining selections untampered and select OK. A new window opens that will allow the consumer to manipulate their modem at will. If the consumer types in AT, they should receive an OK back from the modem which signals it is ready. Upon closing HyperTerminal be sure to save the settings so that they will be saved to the HyperTerminal folder. It will be listed under the name and icon the consumer chose. This icon can be sent to the desktop for easy access later. To send the icon to the desktop follow the access instructions above and once the HyperTerminal is reached it will provide a menu that contains the new file. Right click on the file, select the send to desktop option, and the icon will load to the desktop. Now that HyperTerminal has been set-up the consumer can manipulate their modem by placing a call, disconnecting a call, wait for a call, transfer data, and much more. Of course, this method of obtaining computer modem information and utilizing a modem may not be practical for everyone but it is an option available.
