56K FAXMODEM

User’s Guide and Reference

This manual covers installation and operating instructions for the following modems:
3Com U.S. Robotics 56K* Faxmodem External
The material contained in this document is for information purposes only and is subject to change without notice. 3Com
makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents hereof and specifically disclaims any implied
warranties of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. No part of this document may be reproduced,
transmitted, transcribed, or stored in a retrieval system in any form or by any means, mechanical, magnetic, electronic,
optical, chemical or otherwise, without the written permission of 3Com. 3Com assumes no responsibility for errors or
omissions in this manual. Nor does 3Com make any commitment to update the information contained herein.

3Com, the 3Com logo, and U.S. Robotics are registered trademarks of 3Com Corporation. Windows is a registered
trademark of Microsoft Corp. Any other trademarks, trade names, service marks, or service names owned or registered by
any other company and used in this manual are the property of their respective owners.

Copyright 1998 3Com Corporation. All rights reserved.

* IMPORTANT! In accordance with the ITU standard for V.90 transmissions, this modem is capable of 56 Kbps
downloads. However, the download speeds you experience may be lower due to varying line conditions and other factors.
Uploads from users to server equipment travel at speeds up to 31.2 Kbps. An analogue phone line compatible with the
ITU V.90 standard or 3Com 56K technology, and an Internet provider or corporate host site with the ITU V.90 standard
or
3Com 56K technology are necessary for these high-speed downloads. See http://www.3com.com/56k for details.
 Table of Contents
Welcome to 56K* Information Access 1

Product Features 2

External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98 4

Determining Your Version of Windows 95 4
How to Connect the Modem to the Computer 5
Installing Modem Drivers with Windows 95:
Versions 950 and 950a (Moving Through the "New Hardware Found" Screens) 6
Version 950b (Using the Update Device Driver Wizard Screens) 11
Installing Modem Drivers with Windows 98 15

External Modem Installation with Windows 3.x 18

Software Installation 20
Windows 95 20
Windows 3.x 20
Type of Modem 21
Initialisation String 21
Flow Control 21
UART-Universal Asynchronous Receiver Transmitter 21
 Table of Contents

Troubleshooting 24

Glossary 32

Technical Reference 44
Front Panel Lights 44
Typing Commands 45
Basic Data Commands 46
Extended Data Commands 54
S-Registers 62
Fax Commands 70
Screen Messages 72
The Serial Interface 73
Serial Interface Pin Definitions 74

Regulatory Information 75
CE Compliance 75
Electromagnetic Compatibility 75
Safety (Low Voltage Directive) 75
Operation of pan-European modems 75

Limited Warranty 77
Contact details 81
 Welcome to 56K*Information Access
quickly upgrade their service to the ITU V.90
standard.

∗ In accordance with the ITU standard for V.90

transmissions, this modem is capable of 56 Kbps
downloads. However, the download speeds you
experience may be lower due to varying line
conditions and other factors. Uploads from users to
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) server equipment travel at speeds up to 31.2 Kbps.
decides the technical protocols that An analogue phone line compatible with the ITU
communications devices must use to operate with V.90 standard or 3Com 56K technology, and an
each other. Modems that comply with ITU Internet provider or corporate host site with the
standards can “talk” to other standards-compliant ITU V.90 standard or 3Com 56K technology are
modems and fax machines worldwide. necessary for these high-speed downloads.
See http://www.3com.com/56k for details.
The ITU has determined a worldwide standard for
56K modem technology. With a 3Com
U.S. Robotics modem, you can get 56K Internet
access from any service provider who offers the
ITU V.90 standard or 3Com 56K technology.
3Com is working with providers everywhere to

1
 Product Features
Modulation Schemes Fax Modulation Schemes
ITU-T V.90 ITU-T V.17
3Com 56K technology (Download up to 56kbps, ITU-T V.29
and Upload using V.34) ITU-T V.27ter
ITU-T V.34 (Inc 33600) ITU-T V.21
ITU-T V.32 bis
ITU-T V.32 Fax Standards
EIA 578 Class 1 FAX
ITU-T V.22 bis EIA 592 Class 2.0 FAX
ITU-T V.22
ITU-T V.23 Front Channel Link Rates (Download
ITU-T V.21 Speeds)
28000, 29333, 30666, 32000, 33333, 34666,
Error Control and Data Compression 36000, 37333, 38666, 40000, 41333, 42666,
Schemes 44000, 45333, 46666, 48000, 49333, 50666,
ITU-T V.42 52000, 53333, 54666, 56000
ITU-T V.42 bis
MNP 2-5

2
 Product Features

Back Channel Link Rates (Upload Speeds) Front Panel Lights

4800, 7200, 9600, 12000, 14400, 16800, 19200,
PWR/Power
21600, 24000, 26400, 28800, 31200
The modem is turned on.
V.34 Link Rates
4800, 7200, 9600, 12000, 14400, 16800, 19200, CD/Carrier Detect
21600, 24000, 26400, 28800, 31200, 33600 ON if modem receives a valid data signal (carrier)
from a remote modem, indicating that data
V.32 bis Link Rates transmission is possible. Always ON if CD
4800, 7200, 9600, 12000, 14400 override is ON (&C0).

Additional Link Rates RD/Received Data

300, 1200/75 (V.23), 1200, 2400 Flashes when modem sends result codes or passes
received data bits from remote.
Fax Link Rates
2400, 4800, 7200, 9600, 12000, 14400 SD/Send Data
Flashes when computer sends a data bit to modem.
Flash ROM Upgradable
56K Faxmodem supports software download
through flash memory. You can obtain the latest
features by downloading updates quickly and
easily.

3
 External Modem Installation
with Windows 95 and Windows 98
You will need these items from your Determining Your Version of
3Com U.S. Robotics modem box:
Windows 95
1. Click the My Computer icon on your desktop
with the right mouse button.
modem phone cord 2. Click Properties.
3. In the “System Properties” screen, look at the
system information under the General tab
power adaptor
(circled in the screen image). The number
following the text “Microsoft Windows 95” will
end with “950”, “950a”, or “950b”. This
indicates your version of Windows 95.

serial modem cable

4
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

3. Plug one end of the phone cord into the

Write down your version of Windows.
TELCO socket and the other end into a phone
Windows 95 version _______ wallsocket.
Click OK.
The phone wall socket you use must be for an
How to Connect the Modem ANALOGUE phone line. Most office phones are
wired through DIGITAL lines. Be sure you know
to the Computer which type of line you have. The modem will be
damaged if you use a digital phone line.
1. Turn off your computer and any attached
devices, such as a printer, monitor, keyboard, 4. Plug the power adaptor that came with the
and mouse. modem into a standard wall socket and insert
its plug into the power socket on the modem.
2. Connect the serial cable to the modem and to
the computer. When looking for your serial port 5. If you want to use a telephone on the same line,
on the back of your computer, look for ports use a splitter arrangement. You cannot use the
labeled COM, MODEM, RS-232, or SERIAL. modem and a phone at the same time if they
Do not select AUX, GAME, LPT, or share the same telephone line.
PARALLEL.
Remember which serial port you selected. This
information will be necessary when installing your
communications software.

5
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

Installing Modem Drivers

with Windows 95:
Versions 950 and 950a
Moving Through the “New Hardware Found”
Screens

1. When Windows 95 restarts, it should detect the

modem. If it does, you will see the following
6. Plug the power cords, cables, and peripherals
screen.
back into the computer and turn on the
computer.
7. Start Windows 95.

6
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

Click Driver from disk provided by

hardware manufacturer. Then click OK.
If this screen does not appear, refer to “If Plug and
Play Does Not Detect Your Modem” .
2. When you see the Install from Disk screen,
• If you have a disk that contains your
modem’s drivers, insert the disk into your
disk drive, usually A.
• If you have a CD-ROM that contains your
modem’s drivers, insert the CD-ROM into
your CD-ROM drive, usually D.
If your disk drive or CD-ROM drive is a
different letter, type that letter instead of A or Click OK. Windows will install the drivers for
D. your new modem.

7
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

3. Once Windows finishes loading the 4. Double-click the Modems icon (circled in the
information from the disk or CD-ROM, verify screen image below).
that the modem installation was a success.
When your desktop returns, click the Windows
Start button and point to Settings. Then click
Control Panel.

8
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

5. In the “Modems Properties” screen, you should

If this screen does not appear, refer to “If Plug and
see a description for your modem. Play Does Not Detect Your Modem” on
page 30.

6. Next, click the Diagnostics tab at the top of the

“Modems Properties” screen. Write down the
COM setting for your modem in the space
below. You may need to know this setting when
you install your communications software.
COM Port___________

This means the installation was a success.

9
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

7. Click More Info…. Be sure to install software after the modem is

The modem’s status screens should appear in installed.
the box. Click OK.
Turn to “Software Installation” on page 20 for
information about installing communications
software.

Congratulations!
You are ready to start using your
3Com U.S. Robotics Faxmodem

10
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

Installing Modem Drivers

with Windows 95: Version 950b
Using the Update Device Driver Wizard Screens
1. When you see the following screen,

• If you have a disk that contains your

modem’s drivers, insert the disk into your
disk drive, usually A.
• If you have a CD-ROM that contains your
modem’s drivers, insert the CD-ROM into
Click Next.
your CD-ROM drive, usually D.

If your disk drive or CD-ROM drive is a If this screen does not appear, refer to “If Plug and
different letter, type that letter instead of A or Play Does Not Detect Your Modem” on
D. page 30.

11
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

2. When you see the following screen, click 3. When Windows is finished copying files, verify
Finish. that the modem installation was a success.
Windows will copy files to your hard drive. Click the Windows Start button and point to
Settings. Then click Control Panel.

12
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

4. Double-click the Modems icon (circled in the 5. In the “Modems Properties” screen, you should
screen image below). see a description of your modem.

This means the installation was a success.

13
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

If this screen does not appear, refer to “If Plug and

Play Does Not Detect Your Modem” on
page 30.

6. Next, click the Diagnostics tab at the top of the

“Modems Properties” screen. Write down the
COM setting for your modem in the space. You
may need to know this setting when you install
your communications software.
COM Port_________

7. Click More Info….

The modem’s status screens should appear in
the box. Click OK.
Be sure to install software after the modem is
installed.
Turn to “Software Installation” for information
about installing communications software.
Congratulations!
You are ready to start using your
3Com U.S. Robotics Faxmodem
14
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

Installing Modem Drivers

with Windows 98
1. When you see this screen, Windows has
detected the modem.
2. Click Next.

3. When you see the following screen:

If this screen does not appear, refer to “If Plug

and Play Does Not Detect Your Modem”.

15
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

• if you have a CD-ROM that contains your 5. Click Finish.

modem’s drivers, check CD-ROM drives
option and insert the CD-ROM into your
CD-ROM drive.
• if you have a disk that contains your
modem’s drivers, check the Floppy disk
drives option and insert the disk into your
disk drive.

4. The next screen tells you that Windows has

found the driver for your modem. Click Next.

6. When Windows is finished copying files, you

should verify that the modem installation was a
success. Click the Windows Start button and
point to Settings. Then click Control Panel.
7. Double-click the Modems icon.

8. In the “Modems Properties” screen, you should

see a description of your modem. This means
the installation was a success. Click OK.
16
 External Modem Installation with Windows 95 and Windows 98

If you do not see your modem listed, the installation

was unsuccessful. Refer to “If Plug and Play Does
Not Detect Your Modem”.

9. Next, click the Diagnostics tab at the top of the

“Modems Properties” screen. Write down the
COM setting for your modem in the following
space. You may need to know this setting when
you install your communications software.
COM Port_________

Turn to “Software Installation” for information

about installing communications software. Also
refer to the manual of the communications software
for instructions on installation.

After you install your communications software,

you are ready to use the modem.

17
 External Modem Installation with Windows 3.x
You will need these items from your How to Connect the Modem
3Com U.S. Robotics modem box:
to the Computer
1. Turn off your computer and any attached
devices, such as a printer, monitor, keyboard,
modem phone cord mouse.
2. Connect the serial cable to the modem and to
the computer. When looking for the serial port
power adaptor on the back of your computer, look for ports
labeled COM, MODEM, RS-232, or SERIAL.
Do not select AUX, GAME, LPT, or
serial modem cable
PARALLEL.
Remember which serial port you selected. This
information will be necessary when installing your
communications software.
3. Plug one end of the phone cord into the TELCO
socket and the other end into a phone wall
socket.

18
 External Modem Installation with Windows 3.x

6. Plug the power cords, cables, and peripherals

The phone socket you are going to use must be for back into the computer and turn on the
an ANALOGUE phone line. Most office phones are computer.
wired through DIGITAL lines. Be sure you know
what type of line you have. The modem will be 7. Start Windows 3.x.
damaged if you use a digital phone line.
Be sure to install software after the modem is
4. Plug the power adaptor that came with the installed.
modem into a standard wall socket and insert its
plug into the power socket on the modem. Turn to “Software Installation” for information
If you want to use a telephone on the same line, use a about installing communications software.
splitter arrangement. You cannot use the modem and Congratulations!
a phone at the same time if they share the same You are ready to start using your
telephone line.
3Com U.S. Robotics Faxmodem

19
 Software Installation
3. In the Run dialog box, type A:\install.exe or
Fax, Data, and Telecommunications Software
D:\install.exe and press ENTER.
(communications software) allows you to send and
receive faxes directly from your computer desktop. If your disk drive or CD-ROM drive is a
You can build your own fax directory, send faxes to different letter, type that letter instead of A or
specified groups of fax numbers, select individual D.
cover pages when necessary, and send individual
4. Then click OK.
faxes without exiting your word processing
program. Communications software allows you to 5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install your
change settings and issue commands to your Fax, Data, and Telecommunications Software.
modem.
Windows 3.x
Additionally, communications software lets you
1. Insert the communications software disk or
connect to Bulletin Board Systems (BBS) and other
CD-ROM into your disk drive or CD-ROM
online data providers. Take advantage of this
drive.
access to enter a new world of information and
entertainment. 2. In Program Manager, click File and select
Run.
Windows 95
3. In the text box, type A:\install.exe or
1. Insert the communications software disk or D:\install.exe and press ENTER.
CD-ROM into your disk drive or CD-ROM If your disk drive or CD-ROM drive is a
drive. different letter, type that letter instead of A or
2. Go to the Windows Start menu and select Run. D.
4. Then click OK.
20
 Software Installation

5. Follow the on-screen instructions to install your Flow Control

Fax, Data, and Telecommunications Software.
• For hardware flow control (highly
recommended), select RTS/CTS.
Refer to your software manual for the specific • For software flow control, select XON/XOFF.
installation instructions. The software’s installation
program will ask you questions about the modem Disable the type of flow control (hardware or
you are using. You may need the following software) that you are not using.
information when installing a communications
software package.
UART - Universal Asynchronous Receiver
Type of Modem Transmitter (External Modems Only)
Most communications software programs will ask
If you are running Windows 3.x or you have
you to select the type of modem you are using.
upgraded your system from Windows 3.x to
Select a 3Com U.S. Robotics high speed modem. If
Windows 95, you can run MSD to determine your
that selection is not listed, pick Courier Dual
UART setting. In DOS, type MSD at the Windows
Standard, V.32 bis, or V.34.
directory and then press ENTER.
Initialisation String
For hardware flow control, a fixed serial port rate,
and full result codes, type: AT&F1 and then press
ENTER.
If you must use software flow control, type:
AT&F2 and then press ENTER.
21
 Software Installation

Follow the on-screen instructions to access the

COM port settings panel. In this panel you should
find the UART chip used. Match the UART type
listed in MSD with the serial rate listed in the
chart. Select this serial rate in any fax/data
programs you use.

If this is your UART... Select this serial rate

16550 115.2 or 57.6 Kbps

16450 38.4 Kbps
8250 19.2 Kbps

Do not select a 28,800, 14,400, or 12,000 bps serial

port rate if offered. Your modem will not work
correctly with any of these settings. Fix or lock the
serial port (baud) rate. If it’s referred to as
autobaud, select OFF.

Congratulations!
You are now ready to start using your
3Com U.S. Robotics 56K Faxmodem
22
 Troubleshooting
Read This First!
1. Click Windows Start, point to Settings, and click Control Panel.

2. Double-click the Modems icon.

3. Click the Diagnostics tab.

4. Click the COM port that your modem is assigned to, so that it is highlighted. If you do not see your modem
on this screen, you need to shut down the computer and uninstall the modem. Exit out of the Modems
Properties screen by clicking Cancel. Click Start, Shut Down, select the Shut down the computer?
option, and then click Yes. When your computer has shut down, turn it off and unplug it from its power
outlet. Unplug its serial cable from the computer’s COM port. Reinstall your modem following the
directions in the “External Modem Installation with Windows 95” chapter, but use a different COM port.
5. Click More Info. You should see a list of the modem’s ATI commands. Click OK and exit out of all open
screens. If the ATI commands do not appear, your modem is not properly installed. Reinstall your modem
following the directions in the “External Modem Installation with Windows 95” chapter.

23
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
The computer or software will not recognise the modem.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Make sure the modem is plugged in and turned on. Use only the power adaptor included with your modem.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may not be entering modem commands in the proper manner. Type in all upper case (AT) or all lower
case (at).
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
The COM port may not be enabled. Refer to your computer’s manual for information about enabling COM
ports (usually involves altering the bios settings, motherboard jumpers, and the operating system).
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may be using the wrong serial cable with your external faxmodem. Make sure you are using an RS-232
modem cable. You will need to make sure you are using a 25-pin male to 25-pin female if your COM port is a
25-pin port, or a 25-pin male to 9-pin female if your COM port is a 9-pin port.

24
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
The modem will not go off hook to dial or does not answer the phone.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may have plugged your modem’s phone cord into a digital line. Plugging your modem’s phone cord into a
digital phone line can damage the modem. Call your phone company if you are unsure whether or not your
phone line is digital.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You might have a bad phone cord connection to your modem. The phone cord should be plugged into the
phone socket on the modem and the wall phone socket. The phone cord should be no longer than 12 feet in
length. Use the phone cord included with your modem if possible.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may have devices between the modem and the wall socket. There should be no line splitters, fax machines,
or other devices between the modem and the wall socket.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may have a poor line connection. Place the call again. Calls are routed differently each time.

25
 Troubleshooting

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
If you have voice mail, your dial tone may be altered because messages are waiting. Retrieve your voice mail
messages to restore your normal dial tone.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your software may not have auto answer enabled. Enable the auto answer feature. In your communication
software’s terminal mode, type ATS0=1 and press ENTER. You need to enable auto answer before every
session unless you alter your software’s initialisation string to permanently enable auto answer.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may be using the wrong power adaptor for your modem. Use only the power adaptor that came with your
modem.

PROBLEM
Both modems sound like they are exchanging carrier signals, but fail to establish a connection.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may have a poor line connection. Place the call again. Calls are routed differently each time.

26
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
Your 56K modem cannot achieve a 56K Internet connection.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your modem is capable of receiving data at speeds up to 56 Kbps and sending data at speeds up to 31.2 Kbps.
However, the download speeds you experience may be lower due to varying line conditions. An analogue phone
line compatible with ITU-T V.90 or 3Com 56K technology, and an Internet provider or corporate host site
compatible with ITU-T V.90 or 3Com 56K technology are necessary for these high-speed downloads. Check
http://www.3com.com/56k for a list of ISPs that observe ITU-T V.90 and/or offer 3Com 56K technology.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your phone line may not be capable of transferring data at the full 56K, but V.90 and 3Com 56K technology
operate at a range of speeds and will use the highest speed possible.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may have devices between the modem and the wall socket. There should be no line splitters, fax machines,
or other devices between the modem and the wall socket.

27
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
Errors are constantly occurring in your V.17 fax transmissions.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your modem initialisation string may be insufficient for fax transmissions. In terminal mode, type the
following initialisation string: AT&F&H3&I2&R2S7=90 then press ENTER.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
There may be a Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) program (such as a screen saver or virus scanner) running
in the background, disrupting data communications. Disable any Terminate and Stay Resident (TSR) programs
running in the background. If you have software running as a TSR, check the software’s manual for
information about disabling its ability to operate as a TSR.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your baud rate may be set too high. In your communications software, lower the baud rate to 9600, 7200, or
4800.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
You may be trying to fax a compressed file. Decompress the file using the application with which it was
compressed. Then open it in the application with which it was created. Select your fax software as the printer
and then print the file.

28
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
Your communications software fails to initialise the modem.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Your software’s port settings may be incorrect. Make sure the software’s port settings match those for your
modem.
POSSIBLE SOLUTION
Make sure the modem is plugged in and turned on. Use only the power adaptor included with the modem.

29
 Troubleshooting

PROBLEM
If Plug and Play (PNP) does not detect your modem. You have installed the modem and Windows has started,
but you see only your normal desktop. You do not see any screens indicating new hardware has been detected.

POSSIBLE SOLUTION
The Plug and Play installation was not successful. Try the following:
1. Click Start and click Shut Down.
2. When asked if you wish to shut down your computer, click Yes.

3. When Windows indicates that it is safe to turn off your computer, turn it off.

4. Wait 15 seconds before turning the computer back on.

5. Windows may detect your modem upon this restart, even if it did not detect the modem during the initial
installation.
• If you see screens indicating that new hardware has been detected by Windows, follow the on-screen
instructions to install the modem.
• If you do not see the new hardware screens, continue with step 6.
6. Click Windows Start

30
 Troubleshooting

7. Point to Settings
8. Click Control Panel.

9. Double-click the System icon.

10. Click the Device Manager tab on the “System Properties” screen.

11. Look for “Other Devices” or “Unknown Devices” in the list that appears.
• If you do not see either of these options in the list, contact customer support for technical assistance.
• If you do see one of these options, double-click the option and continue with step 12.
12. If the description that appears matches the modem you are trying to install, click Remove. If it does not,
contact customer support for technical assistance.
13. Click OK when Windows asks if you wish to remove the device.

14. Restart the computer and continue with the on-screen instructions. If the computer does not detect the
modem after this second restart, contact customer support for technical assistance.

31
 Glossary
transmit/receive frequencies are the reverse of the
Cross references are printed in boldface. Cross originating modem, which is in originate mode.
references with items in the Data Commands found
in the “Technical Reference” section, are printed in application
italics. A computer program designed to perform a
specific function, such as a word processing or
analogue loopback organizing data into a spreadsheet.
A modem self-test in which data from the keyboard
or an internal test pattern is sent to the modem's ARQ
transmitter, turned into analogue form, looped Automatic Repeat reQuest is a general term for a
back to the receiver, and converted back into function that automatically allows your modem to
digital form. detect flawed data and retransmit it. See MNP and
V.42.
analogue signals
A variety of signals and wavelengths that can be ASCII
transmitted over communications lines such as the American Standard Code for Information
sound of a voice over the phone line. These signals Interchange is a code used to represent letters,
are in contrast with digital signals. numbers, and special characters, such as $, !, and
/.
answer mode
The mode used by your modem when answering an
incoming call from an originating modem. The

32
 Glossary

asynchronous transmission not technically accurate, baud rate is commonly

Data transmission in which the length of time used to mean bit rate.
between transmitted characters may vary. Since
the time lapses between transmitted characters are binary digit
not uniform, the receiving modem must be A 0 or 1, which reflects the use of the binary
signaled as to when the data bits of a character numbering system. It is used because the computer
begin and then they end. The addition of start/stop recognizes either of two states, OFF or ON. The
bits to each character serves this purpose. shortened form of binary digit is bit.

auto answer bit rate

In this setting the modem can pick up the phone This refers to the number of binary digits, or bits,
line when it detects a certain number of rings. See transmitted per second (bps). It is also referred to
S-register S0 in the “Technical Reference” section. as transmission rate. Communications channels
using telephone channel modems are established at
autodial set bit rates, commonly 2400, 4800, 9600, 14,400,
A process where your modem dials a call for you. 28,800 and higher.
The dialling process is initiated by sending an
ATDT (dial tone) or ATDP (dial pulse) command bits per second (bps)
followed by the telephone number to dial. Autodial This is the bits (binary digits) per second rate.
is used to dial voice numbers. See command Dn. Thousands of bits per second are expressed as
kilobits per second or kbps.
baud rate
A term used to measure the speed of an analogue
transmission from one point to another. Although
33
 Glossary

buffer characters per second (CPS)

A memory area set aside to be used as temporary A data transfer rate generally estimated from the
storage during input and output operations. An bit rate and the character length. For example, at
example is the modem's command buffer. 2400 bps, 8-bit characters with start/stop bits (for
a total of ten bits per character) will be transmitted
byte at a rate of approximately 240 characters per
A group of binary digits stored and operated upon second (cps). Some protocols, such as error-control
as a unit. In user documentation, the term usually protocols, employ advanced techniques such as
refers to 8-bit units or characters. One kilobyte longer transmission frames and data compression
(KB) is equal to 1,024 bytes or characters; 640 KB to increase cps.
indicates 655,360 bytes or characters.
class 1 and 2.0
carrier International standards used between fax
A tone signifying a connection the modem can application programs and faxmodems for sending
alter to communicate data across telephone lines. and receiving faxes.

character
A representation, coded in binary digits, of a
letter, number, or other symbol.

34
 Glossary

cyclic redundancy checking (CRC) data mode

An error-detection technique consisting of a test The mode in which the faxmodem is capable of
performed on each block, or frame, of data by both sending and receiving data files. A standard
sending and receiving modems. The sending modem without fax capabilities is always in data
modem inserts the results of its tests in each data mode.
block in the form of a CRC code. The receiving
modem compares its results with the received CRC DCE
code and responds with either a positive or Data Communications Equipment (or Circuit-
negative acknowledgment. Terminating Equipment) is equipment such as
dial-up modems that establish and control the data
data communications link via the telephone network.
A type of communications in which computers are
able to exchange data over an electronic medium. default
Any setting assumed, at startup or reset, by the
data compression table computer's software and attached devices. The
A table containing values assigned for each computer or software will use these settings until
character during a call under MNP5 data changed by the user or other software.
compression. Default values in the table are
continually altered and built during each call: The detect phase
longer the table, the more efficient throughput In the ITU-T V.42 error-control protocol, the first
gained. stage in establishing if both modems attempting to
connect have V.42 capability.

35
 Glossary

dictionary duplex
The term used for compression codes built by the Duplex indicates a communications channel
V.42 bis data compression algorithm. capable of carrying signals in both directions. See
half duplex, full duplex.
digital loopback
A test that checks the modem's RS-232 interface Electronic Industries Association (EIA)
and the cable that connects the terminal This association is a group which defines
(computer) and the modem. The modem receives electronic standards in the U.S.
data (in the form of digital signals) from the
computer or terminal, and immediately returns the error control
data to the screen for verification. A variety of techniques that check the reliability of
characters (parity) or blocks of data. V.42 and
digital signals MNP error-control protocols use error detection
Signals that are discrete and uniform. In this (CRC) and retransmission of flawed frames
manual, the term refers to the binary digits 0 and (ARQ).
1. These signals are in contrast with analogue
signals. facsimile
A method for transmitting the image on a page
DTE from one point to another. This is commonly
Data Terminal (or Terminating) Equipment is a referred to as fax.
computer that generates or is the final destination
of data.

36
 Glossary

fax mode half duplex

The mode in which the faxmodem is capable of These signals will flow in both directions, but only
sending and receiving files in a facsimile format. one way at a time. In microcomputer
See definitions for V.17, V.27ter, V.29. communications, may refer to activation of the
online local echo, which causes the modem to send
flow control a copy of the transmitted data to the screen of the
A mechanism that compensates for differences in sending computer.
the flow of data into and out of a modem or other
device. See commands &Hn, &In, &Rn. Hz
Hertz is a frequency measurement unit used
frame internationally to indicate cycles per second.
A data communications term for a block of data
with header and trailer information attached. The ITU-T
added information usually includes a frame An international organization that defines
number, block size data, error-check codes, and standards for telegraphic and telephone equipment.
Start/End indicators. For example, the Bell 212A standard for 1200 bps
communication in North America is observed
full duplex internationally as ITU-T V.22. For 2400 bps
These signals will flow in both directions at the communication, most U.S. manufacturers observe
same time over one line. In microcomputer V.22 bis.
communications, may refer to the suppression of
the online local echo.

37
 Glossary

LAPM modem
Link Access Procedure for Modems is an error- A device that transmits/receives computer data
control protocol defined in ITU-T through a communications channel such as radio
Recommendation V.42. Like the MNP protocols, or telephone lines. It also changes signals received
LAPM uses cyclic redundancy checking (CRC) from the phone line back to digital signals before
and retransmission of corrupted data (ARQ) to passing them to the receiving computer.
ensure data reliability.
nonvolatile memory (NVRAM)
local echo A user-programmable random access memory
A modem feature that enables the modem to which retains data when power is turned off. On
display keyboard commands and transmitted data some modems, it includes four stored phone
on the screen. See command En. numbers and the modem settings.

MNP off/on hook

Microcom Networking Protocol is an error-control Modem operations that are the equivalent of
protocol developed by Microcom, Inc., and now in manually lifting a phone receiver (taking it off-
the public domain. There are several different hook) and replacing it (going on-hook).
MNP protocols, but the most commonly used one
ensures error-free transmission through error
detection (CRC) and retransmission of erred
frames.

38
 Glossary

online fall back/fall forward protocol

A feature that allows a high-speed, error-control A system of rules and procedures governing
modem to monitor line quality and fall back to the communications between two or more devices.
next lower speed in a defined range if line quality Protocols vary, but communicating devices must
diminishes. As line conditions improve, the follow the same protocol in order to exchange data.
modem switches up to the next higher speed. The format of the data, readiness to receive or
send, error detection and error correction are some
originate mode of
The mode used by your modem when initiating an the operations that may be defined in protocols.
outgoing call to a destination modem. The
transmit/ receive frequencies are the reverse of the RAM
called modem, which is in answer mode. Random Access Memory is memory that is
available for use when the modem is turned on, but
parity that clears of all information when the power is
A simple error-detection method that checks the turned off. The modem's RAM holds the current
validity of a transmitted character. Character operational settings, a flow control buffer, and a
checking has been surpassed by more reliable and command buffer.
efficient forms of error checking, including V.42
and MNP 2-4 protocols. Either the same type of remote digital loopback
parity must be used by two communicating A test that checks the phone link and a remote
computers, or both may omit parity. modem's transmitter and receiver.

39
 Glossary

remote echo terminal

A copy of the data received by the remote system, A device whose keyboard and display are used for
returned to the sending system, and displayed on sending and receiving data over a communications
the screen. Remote echoing is a function of the link. This device differs from a microcomputer or a
remote system. mainframe in that it has little or no internal
processing capabilities.
ROM
Read Only Memory is permanent memory, which terminal mode
is not user-programmable. Software mode that allows direct communication
with the modem. This mode is also known as
serial transmission command mode.
The consecutive flow of data in a single channel.
Compare it to parallel transmissions where data throughput
flows simultaneously in multiple channels. The amount of actual user data transmitted per
second without the overhead of protocol
start/stop bits information such as start/stop bits or frame
These signaling bits are attached to a character headers and trailers. Compare it with characters
before and after the character is transmitted during per second.
asynchronous transmission.
V.8
The ITU-T standard specification that covers the
initial handshaking process.

40
 Glossary

V.17 V.23
An ITU-T standard for making facsimile An ITU-T standard for modem communication at
connections at 14,400 bps, 12,000 bps, 9600 bps, 1200 bps with a 75 bps back channel.
and 7200 bps. V.27ter
An ITU-T standard for facsimile operations that
V.21 specifies modulation at 4800 bps, with fallback to
An ITU-T standard for modems operating in 2400 bps.
asynchronous mode at speeds up to 300 bps, full-
duplex, on public-switched telephone networks. V.29
An ITU-T standard for facsimile operations that
V.22 specifies modulation at 9600 bps, with fallback to
An ITU-T standard for modem communications at 7200 bps.
1200 bps, compatible with the Bell 212A standard
observed in the U.S. and Canada. V.32
An ITU-T standard for modem communications at
V.22 bis 9600 bps and 4800 bps. V.32 modems fall back to
An ITU-T standard for modem communications at 4800 bps when line quality is impaired.
2400 bps. The standard includes an automatic link
negotiation fallback to 1200 bps and compatibility
with Bell 212A/V.22 modems.

41
 Glossary

V.32 bis V.42 bis

An ITU-T standard that extends the V.32 An extension of ITU-T V.42 that defines a specific
connection range: 4800, 7200, 9600, 12,000, and data compression scheme for use during V.42
14,400 bps. V.32 bis modems fall back to the next connections.
lower speed when line quality is impaired, fall back
further as necessary, and also fall forward (switch V.90
back up) when line conditions improve. The ITU-T standard for 56 Kbps modem
See online fall back/fall forward. communications.

V.34 Xmodem
An ITU-T standard that currently allows data rates The first of a family of error control software
as high as 28,800 bps and 33,600bps. protocols used to transfer files between modems.
These protocols are in the public domain and are
V.42 available from many bulletin board services.
An ITU-T standard for modem communications
that defines a two-stage process of detection and Xon/Xoff
negotiation for LAPM error control. Standard ASCII control characters used to tell an
intelligent device to stop/resume transmitting data.

42
 Glossary

Ymodem
An error-checking protocol that can send several
files of data at a time in 1024-byte (1K) blocks.
This protocol can use either checksums or CRC for
error checking.

Ymodem G
This is similar to the Ymodem, except it relies on
the modem for error checking, which makes it
faster.

Zmodem
This is similar to Xmodem and Ymodem, except it
includes batch transfer, the ability to recover from
a partially complete transfer, an autostart feature,
and improved efficiency.

43
 Technical Reference

Front Panel Lights

Symbol Meaning Status
PWR ........ Power The modem is turned on.
CD........... Carrier Detect ON if modem receives a valid data signal (carrier) from a remote
modem, indicating that data transmission is possible. Always ON if CD
override is ON (&C0).
RD ........... Received Data Flashes when modem sends result codes or passes received data bits from
remote.
SD ........... Send Data Flashes when computer sends a data bit to modem.

44
 Technical Reference

Typing Commands
• In terminal mode, type commands in either upper or lower case, not a combination. Use the Backspace
key to delete errors. (You cannot delete the original AT command because it is stored in the modem
buffer.)
• If a command has numeric options and you do not include a number, zero is assumed. For example, if
you type ATB, the command ATB0 is assumed.
• Every command except A/, +++, and A> must begin with the AT prefix and be entered by pressing
ENTER.
• The maximum command length is 58 characters. This does not include the AT prefix, carriage returns,
or spaces.

All defaults are based on the &F1Hardware Flow Control template loaded in NVRAM when the modem is
shipped. Defaults are listed in italics.

45
 Technical Reference

not require the AT prefix or a Carriage

Basic Data Commands Return.
<control key>S
Stop or restart help screens.
<control key>C or
<control key>K
Stop help screens.
$ Use in conjunction with D, S, or &
commands (or just AT) to display a basic
command list; online help.
A Manual Answer goes off hook in answer
mode. Pressing any key aborts the
operations.
A/ Re-executes the last issued command.
Used mainly to redial. This does not
require the AT prefix or a Carriage
Return.
A> Re-executes the last issued command
continuously, until the user intervenes or
the command is executed forever. Does

46
 Technical Reference

Any key Aborts off-hook dial/answer Dn (Continued)

operation and hangs up. , (Comma) Pause, see the
AT Required command prefix, except with A/, definition of the S8 register to
+++, and A>. Use alone to test for OK which it is linked
result code. ; (Semicolon) Return to
Command mode after dialling
Bn U.S./ITU-T answer sequence
! (Exclamation point) Flashes the
B0 ITU-T answer sequence switch hook
B1 U.S. answer tone / (Back Slash) Delays for 125 ms.
Dn Dials the specified phone number, before proceeding with dial
includes the following: string
W Waits for second dial tone (X2
0-9 Numeric digits
or X4); linked to S6 register
#, * Extended touch-tone pad tones
@ (At Symbol) Dials, waits for
L Dials the last dialled number
quiet answer, and continues (X3
P Pulse (rotary) dial
or higher)
R Originates call using answer
$ (Dollar Sign) Displays a list of
(reverse) frequencies
Dial commands
Sn Dials the phone number string
stored at position n (n = 0−3).
Phone numbers are stored with
the &Zn=s command
T Tone dial

47
 Technical Reference

En Sets local echo In Displays the following

E0 Echo OFF information:
E1 Modem displays keyboard I0 Four-digit product code
commands I1 Results of ROM checksum
I2 Results of RAM checksum
Fn Sets online local echo of
I3 Product type
transmitted data ON/OFF
I4 Current modem settings
F0 Local echo ON; modem sends I5 Stored memory settings
a copy of data, it sends to the I6 Link diagnostics
remote system to your screen I7 Product configuration
F1 Local echo OFF; receiving I9 Plug and Play information
system may send a remote echo I11 Extended link diagnostics
of data it receives
Ln Speaker Volume
Hn Controls ON/OFF hook
H0 Hangs up (goes on hook) L0 Lowest Speaker Volume L1
H1 Goes off hook Low Speaker Volume
L2 Medium Speaker volume
L3 High Speaker Volume

Mn Operates speaker
M0 Speaker always OFF
M1 Speaker ON until CONNECT
M2 Speaker always ON
48
 Technical Reference

M3 Speaker ON after dial, until

CONNECT
On Returns online
O0 Returns online
O1 Returns online and retrains
Qn Displays/suppresses result codes
Q0 Displays result codes
Q1 Quiet mode; no result codes
Q2 Displays result codes
only in Originate mode
Sr.b=n Sets bit .b of register r to n (0/OFF or
1/ON)

Sr=n Sets register r to n

Sr? Displays contents of S-Register r
S$ Displays a list of the S-Registers
Vn Displays verbal/numeric result codes
V0 Numeric codes
V1 Verbal codes

49
 Technical Reference

Xn Sets result code displayed, default is X4

Xn Setting
Result Codes X0 X1 X2 X3 X4
0/OK • • • • •
1/CONNECT • • • • •
2/RING • • • • •
3/NO CARRIER • • • • •
4/ERROR • • • • •
5/CONNECT 1200 • • • •
6/NO DIAL TONE • •
7/BUSY • •
8/NO ANSWER* • •
9/Reserved
10/CONNECT 2400 • • • •
13/CONNECT 9600 • • • •
18/CONNECT 4800 • • • •
20/CONNECT 7200 • • • •
21/CONNECT 12000 • • • •
25/CONNECT 14400 • • • •
43/CONNECT 16800 • • • •
85/CONNECT 19200 • • • •
*Requires @ in dial string; replaces NO CARRIER

50
 Technical Reference

Xn (Continued) Xn Setting
Result Codes X0 X1 X2 X3 X4
91/CONNECT 21600 • • • •
99/CONNECT 24000 • • • •
103/CONNECT 26400 • • • •
107/CONNECT 28800 • • • •
151/CONNECT 31200 • • • •
155/CONNECT 33600 • • • •
256/CONNECT 28000 • • • •
260/CONNECT 29333 • • • •
264/CONNECT 30666 • • • •
268/CONNECT 32000 • • • •
180/CONNECT 33333 • • • •
272/CONNECT 34666 • • • •
276/CONNECT 36000 • • • •
184/CONNECT 37333 • • • •
280/CONNECT 38666 • • • •
284/CONNECT 40000 • • • •
188/CONNECT 41333 • • • •

51
 Technical Reference

Xn (Continued) Xn Setting
Result Codes X0 X1 X2 X3 X4
192/CONNECT 42666 • • • •
196/CONNECT 44000 • • • •
200/CONNECT 45333 • • • •
204/CONNECT 46666 • • • •
208/CONNECT 48000 • • • •
212/CONNECT 49333 • • • •
216/CONNECT 50666 • • • •
220/CONNECT 52000 • • • •
224/CONNECT 53333 • • • •
228/CONNECT 54666 • • • •
232/CONNECT 56000 • • • •

Adaptive Dialling • • •
Wait for 2nd Dial Tone (W) • •
Wait for Answer (@) • •
Fast Dial • •

52
 Technical Reference

Yn Selects power-on/reset default Z Resets modem

configuration Z0 Resets modem to profile
Y0 Use profile 0 setting in selected by Y command
NVRAM Z1 Resets modem to profile 0
Y1 Use profile 1 setting in Z2 Resets modem to profile 1
NVRAM Z3 Resets modem to factory default
Y2 Use factory configuration 0 profile 0 (&F0)
(&F0) Z4 Resets modem to factory
Y3 Use factory configuration 1 default profile 1 (&F1)
(&F1) Z5 Resets modem to factory default
Y4 Use factory configuration 2 profile 2 (&F2)
(&F2)

53
 Technical Reference

&Cn Controls Carrier Detect (CD)

Extended Data Commands signal
&$ Displays a list of ampersand &C0 CD override
(&) commands &C1 Normal CD operations
&An Enables/disables additional result code &Dn Controls Data Terminal Ready
subsets, see Xn (DTR) operations
&A0 ARQ result codes disabled &D0 DTR override
&A1 ARQ result codes enabled &D1 DTR toggle causes online
&A2 Modulation indicator added Command mode
&A3 Protocol indicators added &D2 Normal DTR operations
LAPM/MNP/NONE (error &D3 Resets on receipt of DTR
control) and V.42 bis/MNP5
(data compression) &Fn Loads a read-only (non-
programmable) factory
&Bn Manages modem’s serial port rate configuration
&B0 Variable, follows connection &F0 Generic template; no
rate flow control
&B1 Fixed serial port rate &F1 Hardware flow control template
&B2 Fixed in ARQ mode, variable in &F2 Software flow control template
non-ARQ mode

54
 Technical Reference

&Gn Sets Guard Tone &In Sets Receive Data (RD)

&G0 No guard tone, U.S. and software flow control, see also
Canada &Rn
&G1 550 Hz guard tone, some &I0 Software flow control disabled
European countries, requires B0 &I1 Xon/Xoff signals to your
setting modem and remote system
&G2 1800 Hz guard tone, U.K., &I2 Xon/Xoff signals to your
requires B0 setting modem only
&Hn Sets Transmit Data (TD) flow control, &Kn Enables/disables data
see also &Rn compression
&H0 Flow control disabled &K0 Data compression disabled
&H1 Hardware flow control, Clear to &K1 Auto enable/disable
Send (CTS) &K2 Data compression enabled
&H2 Software flow control, Xon/Xoff &K3 MNP5 compression disabled
&H3 Hardware and software flow
control

55
 Technical Reference

&N1 300 bps

&Mn Sets Error Control (ARQ) for
&N2 1200 bps
connections at 1200 bps and higher
&N3 2400 bps
&M0 Normal mode, error control &N4 4800 bps
disabled &N5 7200 bps
&M1 Reserved &N6 9600 bps
&M2 Reserved &N7 12,000 bps
&M3 Reserved &N8 14,400 bps
&M4 Normal/ARQ &N9 16,800 bps
&M5 ARQ mode &N10 19,200 bps
&N11 21,600 bps
&Nn Sets connect speed, if connection &N12 24,000 bps
cannot be made at this speed, the
modem will hang up. When used in
conjunction with &Un and &Un is
greater than 0, &Nn sets the ceiling
connect speed. &Un sets the floor
connect speed. (See also the table in
the &Un section.)
Note: &N17 through &N39 apply only to
V.90 products.
&N0 Connection speed is determined
by the remote modem

56
 Technical Reference

&Nn (Continued) &N35 52,000 bps

&N13 26,400 bps &N36 53,333 bps
&N14 28,800 bps &N37 54,666 bps
&N15 31,200 bps &N38 56,000 bps
&N16 33,600 bps &Pn Sets pulse (rotary) dial
&N17 28,000 bps make/break ratio
&N18 29,333 bps
&P0 U.S./Canada ratio, 39%/61%
&N19 30,666 bps
&P1 U.K. ratio, 33%/67%
&N20 32,000 bps
&N21 33,333 bps &Rn Sets Receive Data (RD) hardware flow
&N22 34,666 bps control, Request to Send (RTS), see
&N23 36,000 bps also &Hn
&N24 37,333 bps &R0 Reserved
&N25 38,666 bps &R1 Modem ignores RTS
&N26 40,000 bps &R2 Received Data to computer only
&N27 41,333 bps on RTS
&N28 42,666 bps
&N29 44,000 bps &Sn Controls Data Set Ready (DSR)
&N30 45,333 bps operations
&N31 46,666 bps &S0 DSR override; always ON
&N32 48,000 bps &S1 Modem controls DSR
&N33 49,333 bps
&N34 50,666 bps

57
 Technical Reference

&Tn Begins test modes

&T0 Ends testing
&T1 Analogue Loopback
&T2 Reserved
&T3 Local Digital Loopback
&T4 Enables Remote Digital
Loopback
&T5 Prohibits Remote
Digital Loopback
&T6 Initiates Remote Digital
Loopback
&T7 Remote Digital with self-test
and error detector
&T8 Analogue Loopback with self-
test and error detector

58
 Technical Reference

&Un When set above 0, the value chosen from the table sets the floor connect speed (the lowest
acceptable connect speed). If a connection cannot be made at or above this speed, the modem will
hang up. This command can also be used in conjunction with &Nn.
Note: &U17 through &U39 apply only to V.90 products.

&N=0 &N>0
&U=0 Connects at best Attempts a connection at the speed
possible speed defined by &Nn.
between your modem
and the remote modem.
Note: These factory default
settings should be sufficient
for most users.
&U>0 Connects at any speed Connects at any
faster than the value speed between
&Un. &Nn. and &Un.

59
 Technical Reference

&Un (Continued) &U20 32,000 bps

&U0 No restrictions on the &U21 33,333 bps
minimum speed for the &U22 34,666 bps
connection &U23 36,000 bps
&U1 300 bps &U24 37,333 bps
&U2 1200 bps &U25 38,666 bps
&U3 2400 bps &U26 40,000 bps
&U4 4800 bps &U27 41,333 bps
&U5 7200 bps &U28 42,666 bps
&U6 9600 bps &U29 44,000 bps
&U7 12,000 bps &U30 45,333 bps
&U8 14,400 bps &U31 46,666 bps
&U9 16,800 bps &U32 48,000 bps
&U10 19,200 bps &U33 49,333 bps
&U11 21,600 bps &U34 50,666 bps
&U12 24,000 bps &U35 52,000 bps
&U13 26,400 bps &U36 53,333 bps
&U14 28,800 bps &U37 54,666 bps
&U15 31,200 bps &U38 56,000 bps
&U16 33,600 bps
&U17 28,000 bps
&U18 29,333 bps
&U19 30,666 bps

60
 Technical Reference

&Wn Writes current configuration to &Zn? Displays the phone number stored at
NVRAM templates − 3)
position n (n = 0−
&W0 Modifies the NVRAM 0
&ZL? Displays the last executed dial string
template (Y0)
&W1 Modifies the NVRAM 1 #CID=n Controls Caller ID feature
template (Y1)
#CID=0 Caller ID disabled
&Yn Sets break handling #CID=1 Caller ID enabled with
&Y0 Destructive, but does not send formatted information
break #CID=2 Caller ID enabled with
&Y1 Destructive, expedited unformatted information
&Y2 Nondestructive, expedited +++ Escapes to online-command
&Y3 Nondestructive, unexpedited mode
&Zn=sWrites phone number string s at
− 3)
position n (n = 0−

&Zn=L Writes last executed dial string at

− 3)
position n (n = 0−

61
 Technical Reference

S-Registers
To change a setting, use the ATSr=n command, where r is the register and n is a decimal value from 0 − 255
(unless otherwise indicated).
Register Default Function
S0 0 Sets the number of rings on which to answer in Auto Answer Mode
When set to 0, Auto Answer is disabled
S1 0 Counts and stores the number of rings from an incoming call
S0 must be greater than 0
S2 43 Stores the ASCII decimal code for the escape code character
Default character is +
A value of 128 –255 disables the escape code
S3 13 Stores the ASCII code for the Carriage Return character
Valid range is 0 –127
S4 10 Stores the ASCII decimal code for the Line Feed character
Valid range is 0 –127
S5 8 Stores the ASCII decimal code for the Backspace character
A value of 128−255 disables the Backspace key’s delete function
S6 2 Sets the number of seconds the modem waits before dialling
If Xn is set to X2 or X4, this is the time-out length if there is not a dial tone

62
 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S7 60 Sets the number of seconds the modem waits for a carrier
S8 2 Sets the duration, in seconds, for the pause (,) option in the Dial command
S9 6 Sets the required duration, in tenths of a second, of the remote modem’s carrier signal before
recognition by the modem
S10 14 Sets the duration, in tenths of a second, that the modem waits to hang up after loss of carrier.
This guard time allows the modem to distinguish between a line disturbance from a true
disconnect (hang up) by the remote modem.
Note: If you set S10 = 255, the modem will not hang up when carrier is lost
Dropping DTR hangs up the modem
S11 72 Sets the duration and spacing, in milliseconds, for tone dialling
S12 50 Sets the duration, in fiftieths of a second, of the guard time for the escape code sequence (+++)
S13 0 Bit-mapped register
Select the bit(s) you want on and set S13 to the total of the values in the Value column
For example: ATS13 = 17 enables bit 0 (value is 1) and bit 4 (value is 16)
Bit Value Result
0 1 Reset when DTR drops
1 2 Reset non-MNP transmit buffer from 1.5K to 128 bytes*
2 4 Set backspace key to delete
3 8 On DTR signal, autodial the number stored at position 0
4 16 At power on/reset, autodial the number stored at position 0

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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S13 (Continued) Bit Value Result
5 32 Reserved
6 64 Disable quick retrains
7 128 Disconnect on escape code
*The 1.5K-byte non-ARQ buffer allows data transfer with Xmodem- and Ymodem- type file
transfer protocols without using flow control
The 128-byte option lets remote users with slower modems keep data you are sending from
scrolling off their screens
When remote users send your computer an Xoff (Ctrl-S) and you stop transmitting, the data in
transit from your modem’s buffer does not exceed the size of their screen
This is also very helpful in situations when a remote modem/printer application is losing
characters
S14 0 Reserved
S15 0 Bit-mapped register setup
To set the register, see instructions for S13
Bit Value Result
0 1 Disable ARQ/MNP for V.22
1 2 Disable ARQ/MNP for V.22 bis
2 4 Disable ARQ/MNP V.32/V.32 bis

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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S15 (Continued) Bit Value Result
3 8 Disable MNP handshake
4 16 Disable MNP level 4
5 32 Disable MNP level 3
6 64 MNP incompatibility
7 128 Disable V.42 operation
To disable V.42 detect phase, select the total of the values for bits 3 and 7. (S15=136{the sum
of values 8 and 128})
S16 0 Reserved
S17 0 Reserved
S18 0 Test timer for &T loopback testing
Sets the time in seconds of testing before the modem automatically times out and terminates
the test
When set to 0, the timer is disabled
Valid range is 1-255
S19 0 Sets the duration, in minutes, for the inactivity timer
The timer activates when there is no data activity on the phone line; at time-out the modem
hangs up
S19 = 0 disables the timer
S20 0 Reserved
S21 10 Sets the length, in 10-millisecond units, of breaks sent from the modem to the computer;
applies to MNP or V.42 mode only
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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S22 17 Stores the ASCII decimal code for the Xon character
S23 19 Stores the ASCII decimal code for the Xoff character
S24 0 Reserved
S25 20 Sets the duration, in hundredths of a second, that DTR must be dropped so that the modem
does not interpret a random glitch as a DTR loss
Most users will want to use the default
This register is useful for setting compatibility with older systems running under older
operating software
S26 0 Reserved
S27 0 Bit-mapped register setup
To set the register, see instructions for S13
Bit Value Result
0 1 Enables ITU-T V.21 modulation at 300 bps for UK calls
1 2 Enables unencoded (non-trellis coded) modulation in V.32 mode
2 4 Disables V.32 modulation
3 8 Disables 2100 Hz answer tone to allow two V.42 modems to connect faster
4 16 Enables V.23 fallback mode
5 32 Disables V.32 bis mode

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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S27 (Continued) Bit Value Result
6 64 Disable V.42 selective reject
7 128 Software compatibility mode
This setting disables the codes and displays the 9600 code instead
The actual rate of the call can be viewed on the ATI6 screen
Used for unusual software incompatibilities
Some software may not accept 7200, 12,000, and 14,400 bps or greater
result codes
S28 0 Eliminates the V.32 answer tones for a faster connection
8 Default item, all times are in tenths of seconds
255 Disables all connections except V.32 at 9600 bps
S29 20 Sets the duration, in tenths of a second, of the V.21 answer mode fallback timer
S30 0 Reserved
S31 128 Reserved
S32 2 Bit-mapped register setup
To set the register, see the instructions for S13
Bit Value Result
0 1 V.8 Call Indicate enabled
1 2 Enables V.8 mode
2 4 Reserved
3 8 Disable V.34 modulation

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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S32 (Continued) Bit Value Result
4 16 Disable 33,600 bps and 31,200bps in V.34 modulation
5 32 Disable 56K modulation
6 64 Disable V.90 modulation.
7 128 Reserved.
S33 0 Bit-mapped register setup
To set the register, see the instructions for S13
Bit Value Result
0 1 Disable 2400 symbol rate
1 2 Disable 2743 symbol rate
2 4 Disable 2800 symbol rate
3 8 Disable 3000 symbol rate
4 16 Disable 3200 symbol rate
5 32 Disable 3429 symbol rate
6 64 Reserved
7 128 Disable shaping
S34 0 Bit-mapped register setup
To set registers, see instructions for S13
Bit Value Result
0 1 Disable 8S-2D trellis encoding
1 2 Disable 16S-4D trellis encoding
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 Technical Reference

Register Default Function

S34 (Continued) Bit Value Result
2 4 Disable 32S-2D trellis encoding
3 8 Disable 64S-4D trellis encoding
4 16 Disable non-linear coding
5 32 Disable TX level deviation
6 64 Disable Pre-emphasis
7 128 Disable Pre-coding
S35-S37 Reserved
S38 0 Sets an optional delay, in seconds, before a forced hang-up and clearing of the Transmit buffer
when DTR drops during an ARQ call. This allows time for a remote modem to acknowledge
receipt of all transmitted data before it is disconnected. The modem immediately hangs up
when DTR drops.
This option only applies to connections terminated by dropping DTR. If the modem receives
the ATH command, it ignores S38 and immediately hangs up.
S39-S40 Reserved
S41 0 Reserved
S42 0 Reserved

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 Technical Reference

Fax Commands
+FCLASS=n Sets the mode of operation
FCLASS=0 Data mode
FCLASS=1 Group 3 Facsimile Service Class 1mode
FCLASS=2.0 Group 3 Facsimile Service Class 2.0 mode
FCLASS? Displays the current FCLASS mode
(see mode descriptions above)
+FCLASS=? Displays the FCLASS mode options
(see mode descriptions above)
+FTS=n Stops the fax transmission
Then the modem waits for a specified time before OK appears on screen. The pause is set in
10 millisecond intervals. n is the number of 10 millisecond intervals that pass before OK
appears. (n=0-255)
+FRS=n Makes the modem wait for a specified length of silence before sending OK to
the screen The pause is set in10 millisecond intervals. n is the number of 10 millisecond
intervals that pass before OK appears. (n=0-255)
Note: This command terminates with OK when either the specified amount of
silence is detected or when the user types anything (which is ignored).

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 Technical Reference

Fax Commands (Continued)

+FTM=n Transmits data using the modulation specified by n
(n = 3, 24, 48, 72, 96, 97, 98, 121, 122, 145, or 146)
Note: See the “Screen Messages” table at the end of this section for an explanation of
messages that appear in response to this command.
+FRM=n Receives data using the modulation specified by n
(n = 3, 24, 48, 72, 96, 97, 98, 121, 122, 145, or 146)
Note: See the “Screen Messages” table at the end of this section for an explanation of
messages that appear in response to this command.
+FTH=n Transmits data framed in the HDLC protocol using the modulation specified by n
(n = 3, 24, 48, 72, 96, 97, 98, 121, 122, 145, or 146)
Note: See the “Screen Messages” table at the end of this section for an explanation of
messages that appear in response to this command.
+FRH=n Receives data framed in the HDLC protocol using the modulation specified by n
(n = 3, 24, 48, 72, 96, 97, 98, 121, 122, 145, or 146)
Note: See the “Screen Messages” table at the end of this section for an explanation of
messages that appear in response to this command.

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 Technical Reference

Screen Messages
Numeric Text
Message Message Description
0 OK The previous command has been processed successfully.
1 CONNECT The modem has just connected to another modem.
2 RING Reports the receipt of a network altering ring.
3 NO CARRIER No carrier is being received from the modem.
4 ERROR The previous command line has not been recognized or was
completed abnormally.
5 NO DIAL TONE (Optional) Dial tone was not received within the time-out period.
6 BUSY (Optional) A busy signal was detected.
64 CONNECT/FAX (Optional) The modem has established a fax connection. This
response is used only when the fax mode is selected.

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 Technical Reference

The Serial Interface

The serial interface is a standard developed by the Electronic Industries Association (EIA). It defines the
signals and voltages used when data is exchanged between a computer and a modem or serial printer.
The entire standard covers many more functions than are used in most data communications applications.
Data is transmitted between the devices over a shielded serial cable with a 25-pin male (DB-25) connector
to the modem and a 25-pin, 9-pin, 8-pin, or custom-built connector to the computer.
The use of a shielded cable when connecting a modem to a computer is recommended to ensure minimal
interference with radio and television.
Pin assignments are factory-set in the U.S. Robotics modem to match the standard DB-25 assignments in
the following table. DB-9 connectors for IBM/AT-compatible computers should be wired at the computer
end of the cable as shown in the DB-9 column.

73
 Technical Reference

Serial Interface Pin Definitions

Signal Source
DB-25 DB-9 Circuit Function Computer/Modem
1 — AA Chassis Ground Both
2 3 BA Transmitted Data Computer
3 2 BB Received Data Modem
4 7 CA Request to Send Computer
5 8 CB Clear to Send Modem
6 6 CC Data Set Ready Modem
7 5 AB Signal Ground Both
8 1 CF Carrier Detect Modem
12 — SCF Speed Indicate Modem
20 4 CD Data Terminal Ready Computer
22 9 CE Ring Indicate Modem

74
 Regulatory Information
CE Compliance Safety (Low Voltage Directive)
This device complies with the following standards
Electromagnetic Compatibility in accordance with European Directives
91/263/EEC and 73/23/EEC:
This device complies with the following standards • EN 60950/A4 3/97
in accordance with the European Directives
89/336/EEC. • EN 41003 08/93
The ports on this modem have the following safety
• Immunity EN 50082-1 06/92
status:
• Emission EN 55022 class B 08/87 • Telephone line connector = TNV-2
• All other ports = SELV

These definitions are classified as per safety

standard: EN 60950/A4 3/97
• SELV: Safety Extra Low Voltage

75
 Regulatory

Operation of pan-European
approved modems
If your particular modem has pan-European
approval, as indicated by the approval label on the
bottom of the modem being as shown below:

then the following notice should be observed:

This equipment has been approved to CTR 21 for

pan-European single terminal connection to the
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN).
However, due to differences between the
individual PSTNs provided in different countries
the approval does not, of itself, give an
unconditional assurance of successful operation on
every PSTN network termination point.

In the event of problems, you should contact your

equipment supplier in the first instance.
76
 Limited Warranty
HARDWARE: 3Com Corporation warrants its SOFTWARE: 3Com Corporation warrants that
hardware products to be free from defects in the software programs licensed from it will
workmanship and materials, under normal use and perform in substantial conformance to the program
service, for the following lengths of time from the specifications therefor for a period of ninety (90)
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reseller: authorized reseller. 3Com warrants the media
containing software against failure during the
56K Faxmodem Lifetime warranty period. No updates are provided. 3Com's
Network Interface Cards Lifetime sole obligation with respect to this express
warranty shall be (at 3Com's discretion) to refund
Other hardware products One year* the purchase price paid by Customer for any
* unless otherwise specified above defective software products, or to replace any
Spare parts and spares kits 90 days defective media with software which substantially
conforms to applicable 3Com published
If a product does not operate as warranted above specifications. Customer assumes responsibility
during the applicable warranty period, 3Com shall, for the selection of the appropriate applications
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product or part, deliver to Customer an equivalent makes no warranty or representation that its
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replaced or repaired product or part has a ninety free, or that all defects in the software products will
(90) day warranty or the remainder of the initial be corrected. For any third party products listed in
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specifications as being compatible
77
 Limited Warranty

US Robotics Corporation. This Year 2000 limited

3Com will make reasonable efforts to provide
compatibility, except where the non-compatibility warranty does not apply to Heritage US Robotics
is caused by a "bug" or defect in the third party's Corporation products. If it appears that any such
product. product does not perform properly with regard to
such date data on and after January 1, 2000, and
YEAR 2000 WARRANTY. In addition to the Customer notifies 3Com before the later of April 1,
Hardware Products Warranty and Software 2000, or ninety (90) days after purchase of the
Products Warranty identified above, 3Com product from 3Com or its authorized reseller,
warrants that all Heritage 3Com products sold or 3Com shall, at its option and expense, provide a
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software, and firmware, accurately exchange date
data with the 3Com products, with the exception of Any software update or replaced or repaired
those products identified at 3Com’s Web site, product will carry a Year 2000 Warranty for ninety
http://www.3com.com, as not meeting this (90) days or until April 1, 2000, whichever is later.
standard. A product is considered a “Heritage
3Com product” if it is a member of a product
family which was manufactured by 3Com prior to
its merger with
78
 Limited Warranty

OBTAINING WARRANTY SERVICE: be provided by advance replacement. The

Customer must contact 3Com’s Corporate Service replacement product will normally be shipped not
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Center or an Authorized 3Com Service Center verification of the DOA product, but may be
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WARRANTIES EXCLUSIVE: IF A 3COM
PRODUCT DOES NOT OPERATE AS
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than thirty (30) days after the date of purchase, and PURCHASE PRICE PAID, AT 3COM'S OPTION.
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79
 Limited Warranty

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80
 Limited Warranty

DISCLAIMER: Some countries, states, or GOVERNING LAW: This Limited Warranty

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81