Multitech MT5600ZDX, MT5600ZDXV User Manual
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a
Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are
designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance
with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in
a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio
or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different
from that of which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
WARNING: Changes or modifications to this unit not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the users authority to operate this
equipment.
The Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person
to use a computer or other electronic device to send any message via a telephone
fax machine unless such message clearly contains in a margin at the top or bottom
of each page or the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent and
an identification of the business or other entity, or other individual sending the
message and the telephone number of the sending machine or such business,
other entity, or individual. See the cover page of your fax software manual for
setup details. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is
subject to the following conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful
interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
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User Guide
User Guide
88312350 Revision A
Models MT5600ZDX & MT5600ZDXV
This publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior expressed written
permission from Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.
Copyright © 1999, by Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. 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. Furthermore, Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. reserves the right to revise this
publication and to make changes from time to time in the content hereof without obligation of
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc. to notify any person or organization of such revisions or changes.
Revision Date Description
A 8/30/99 Joint manual for ZDX & ZDXV issued at Revision A.
MultiModemZDX, Multi-Tech, and the Multi-Tech logo are trademarks of Multi-Tech Systems,
Inc. K56flex is a registered trademark of Rockwell and Lucent Technologies Corp.
©Rockwell Semiconductor Systems, Inc. 1997 All Rights Reserved. Reproduced by Permission. All brand and product names mentioned in this publication are trademarks or
registered trademarks of their respective companies.
Multi-Tech Systems, Inc.
2205 Woodale Drive
Mounds View, Minnesota 55112 U.S.A.
(612) 785-3500 or (800) 328-9717
U. S. FAX 612-785-9874
Technical Support (800) 972-2439
BBS (612) 785-3702 or (800) 392-2432
Internet Address: http://www.multitech.com
Technical Writer: jeff@multitech.com
3
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
Contents
Chapter 1
Introduction ................................................... 8
Product Description ....................................... 8
What Is in Your Modem Package?..............10
Chapter 2
Installation ...................................................14
Computer ......................................................14
Serial Cable .................................................14
Telephone Line .............................................15
Safety Warnings ........................................... 15
Communications Software ..........................15
Assemble the Modem ...................................15
Installation Process .....................................16
Sound Card Considerations ........................ 18
LED Indicators ............................................20
Is Your Modem Ready for Use? ...................22
Operating Your Modem ............................... 22
Simple Operations ....................................... 23
Software Configuration ............................... 23
Hardware/Software Confirmation ..............24
Troubleshooting .......................................... 25
Chapter 3
AT Commands ..............................................34
S-Registers ................................................... 54
Result Codes ................................................ 62
4
Chapter 4
Local Analog Loopback Test/V.54 Loop 3 .66
Digital Loopback Test/V.54 Loop 2 ............67
Digital Loopback Test/V.54 Loop 2 ............68
Chapter 5
Introduction .................................................72
Limited Warranty ......................................... 72
Online Warrantly Registration .................... 72
Tech Support ................................................ 73
Recording Modem Information .................. 73
Service ..........................................................73
About Ordering Accessories ........................74
About the Multi-Tech BBS .......................... 75
Logging on to the Multi-Tech BBS .............75
Downloading a File ..................................... 75
Reading a Message ......................................76
Leaving a Message ...................................... 76
Bulletins .......................................................77
Using Flash to Upgrade Firmware .............77
About Internet Tech Support .......................79
User Guide
Appendix A - Technical Specifications ......................... 82
Appendix B - Regulatory Information .......................... 86
Appendix C - V.90 Information..................................... 96
5
Chapter
1
Introduction
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
Introduction
Welcome to the world of data communications. You have acquired one of
the finest intelligent data/fax modems available today, the MultiModem
ZDX or ZDXV, from Multi-Tech Systems. This Owners Manual will help you
install, configure, test and use your modem.
Product Description
Your modem incorporates new modem technologies called V.90 and
K56flexTM, that enable Internet connections at data rates up to 56K bps over
standard telephone lines. This 56K technology is able to propel data
downstream from the Internet to your computer at speeds of up to 56K bps
because data is digitally encoded instead of modulated. Upstream transmission, mostly keystroke and mouse commands from your computer to the
central site, continue to flow at the conventional data rate of 33.6K bps.
Your modem offers interactive automatic dialing, as well as command mode
option configuration. You may store four command line/telephone numbers,
of up to 40 characters each, in the modems nonvolatile memory. The modem
pulse or tone dials, and recognizes dial tones and busy signals for reliable callprogress detection. The modem can detect AT&T calling card tones.
It is FCC-registered for connection to telephone networks without any Data
Access Arrangements (DAAs).
Although this modem is capable of 56K bps download performance, limitations
caused by line impairments, public telephone infrastructure, and other external
technological factors currently prevent maximum 56K bps connections.
This is a desktop fax/modem for compatible IBM Personal Computers; and
provides dial-up asynchronous communication capability with other personal
computers, terminals, on-line computer services or other types of computer
systems.
Connection to the phone line and/or an attached telephone device is made
by RJ11 modular type connectors; the PC connection is made via an
RS232C/V.24 serial cable receptacle; and low voltage DC power is supplied
to the modem through a modular power supply connection shipped with it.
All these connections are located on the rear of the modem. Hardware
installation procedures are described in Chapter 2.
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User Guide
General features include:
4 Compliance with major ITU-T, TIA, and EIA international standards to
ensure compatibility with other modems.
4 Distinguishes data, and fax calls. The MT5600ZDXV also distinguishes
voice calls using DTMF and tone detection with software packages that
support these features.
4 Caller ID to identify your callers phone number (available on U.S.
products).
Data
4 Supports V.90 and K56flexTM for data transmission speeds up to 56Kbps,
while maintaining compatibility with lower-speed modems.
Note the V.90 and K56flex standards asymmetrically transfers data--
client downloads at speeds up to 56K bps, client uploads at speeds up
to 33.6K bps.
4 Supports the enhanced ITU-T V.34 standard, with data transmission
speeds to 33.6K bps, while also maintaining compatibility with lowerspeed modems.
4 Supports V.90 and K56flex speeds plus 33.6K, 31.2K, 28.8K, 26.4K,
24K, 21.6K, 19.2K, 16.8K, 14.4K, 12K, 9.6K, 7.2K, 4.8K, 2.4K, 1.2K,
and 0-300 bps.
4 Automatic fallback to slower speeds in noisy line conditions, and fall-
forward to faster speeds as conditions improve (line quality monitoring).
4 ITU V.42 LAP-M and MNP Class 3 and 4 error correction.
4 ITU V.42bis (4-to-1) and MNP 5 (2-to-1) data compression.
4 MNP10 and MNP10EC
tion).
4 H.324 compliant (videophone ready).
4 Automatic disabling of compression when transferring already-com-
pressed files.
4 Autodial, redial, pulse (rotary) and touch-tone dial.
4 Dial tone and busy signal detection for reliable call-progress detection.
4 Distinctive ring support to route voice, data, or fax calls on a single
phone line.
4 Plug and Play (PnP) serial support.
4 FlashROM upgradable.
4 Compatibility with the standard AT command set used by most commu-
nication programs.
TM
Enhanced Cellular Performance (error correc-
9
Fax
4 Supports V.17, Class 1 and Class 2 Group 3 fax communication standards,
allowing it to communicate with other fax modems as well as with fax
machines.
4 Sends and receives faxes from your computer at 14,400 bps, 9600 bps,
7200 bps, 4800 bps, 2400 bps, or 300 bps.
What Is in Your Modem Package?
Your modem has several components. Make sure you have them all
before installing your modem. Your package should include:
MultiModemZDX data/fax modem
DC power supply
One set of four plastic feet
Two sets of velcro fasteners (ZDXV only)
Telephonecord
Quick Start Guide (printed) and Users Guide (on disk)
Data Communications Software
One Set-Up diskette
Brochure with warranty registration card
If any of these items are missing, please contact Multi-Tech Systems or
your dealer/distributor.
User Guide
Voice {ZDXV only}
4 Full-duplex speakerphone support with adjustable speaker volume
control. Can record and play back answering machine messages using
optional microphone and speaker.
4 Remote/local telephone answering machine (TAM) capabilities include
voice mail control, record/playback, and call screening.
4 Supports AT#V voice commands.
* For more information on the #V commands supported by the
MT5600ZDXV,see the Voice #V Commands Developer's Kit . This
document is available upon request, and at www.multitech.com/support/
manuals.asp.
1.3 Software Considerations {for ZDXV}
You will need data communications (datacomm), fax communications
software and an appropriate application software package to access the
Personal Voice-Mail features of the MT5600ZDXV. You must have
Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later to run these programs. With the
appropriate application software you can use your MT5600ZDXV to:
speed dial
mute a phone call
place a call on hold
forward or transfer a call
three-way or conference call
fax from any Windows application
record telephone conversations
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Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
How to Use This Manual
This manual is divided into five chapters and three appendices. The
information contained in each chapter and appendix is as follows:
Chapter 1 - Introduction
Chapter 1 begins with a short product introduction and description;
followed by a guide (which you are now reading) to the use of this manual.
Chapter 2 - Installation
Details are given, supported by illustrations as a guide for installing your
MT5600ZDX/ZDXV to the point of operation. There is also a Troubleshooting section in the event your MT5600ZDX/ZDXV is not operating
properly.
Chapter 3 - AT Commands, S-Registers & Result Codes
Chapter 3 documents default and option ATcommands, S-Registers and
Result Codes supported by the MT5600ZDX/ZDXV.
Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting
Chapter 4 covers the modem's built-in test features. These are: Poweron Self Test, Local Analog Loopback, Digital Loopback and Remote Digital
Loopback Tests. We have included a description of each test and how
to use each test procedure.
Chapter 5 - Warranty, Service, & Tech Support
Chapter 5 provides instructions for getting modems serviced at the
factory, statements on your ten-year warranty, the procedure for
downloading firmware upgrades via FlashROM, information about our user
Bulletin Board Service (BBS) and receiving technical support via the
CompuServe and Internet forums.
Appendices
Appendix A - Technical Specifications
Appendix B - Tone Dial Frequencies
Appendix C - Regulatory Information
Appendix D - V.90 Information
12
Chapter
2
Installation
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
Installation
In addition to the contents of the modem package, you will need the
following equipment.
Computer
The modem can be connected to any computer with an RS-232 serial
port. For MT5600ZDXV modems, the computers processor speed
should be at least 75 MHz in order to take full advantage ZDXV
telephony features.
Serial Cable
You must provide a serial cable to connect the modem to your computer.
Serial cables are available at computer stores and many office supply stores.
The cable must have a DB-25P connector at the modem end. For IBM and
compatible computers, the other end may have a DB-25P connector or a
DB-9S connector, depending on your particular computer and whether you
are using the COM1 or the COM2 serial port. The FCC requires cables to be
shielded.
14
DB-25
Figure 2-1. Serial connectors at PC end
DB-9
User Guide
Telephone Line
You must have a telephone line with a conveniently located connector
(jack) to accept the cable that comes with the modem. If you do not
have a telephone jack near your computer, you should install an
extension before proceeding.
In North America, telephone extension kits and accessories are available
at electronics stores and wherever telephones are sold. You may also
hire an independent contractor or your local telephone company to do
the work. If you want to add a line for this modem, you must contact your
telephone company.
Safety Warning Telecom
1. Never install telephone wiring during a lightning storm.
2. Never install telephone jacks in wet locations unless the jack is specifically
designed for wet locations.
3. This product is to be used with UL and cUL listed computers.
4. Never touch uninsulated telephone wires or terminals unless the telephone
line has been disconnected at the network interface.
5. Use caution when installing or modifying telephone lines.
6. Avoid using a telephone (other than a cordless type) during an electrical
storm. There may be a remote risk of electrical shock from lightning.
7. Do not use the telephone to report a gas leak in the vicinity of the leak.
8. To reduce the risk of fire, use only No. 26 AWG or larger Telecommunication
line Cord.
Communications Software
To operate the modem, you must have data and fax communications
software. Data comm software simplifies control of the modem by guiding
you through the process of selecting your serial port, your port speed, and
other variables, and then storing your settings, including frequently called
phone numbers, so they can be recalled with the stroke of a key or the click
of a mouse. The software must be set up, or configured, before you can
use it. You must have Microsoft Windows 3.1 or later to run most prevalent
software packages. If you require software for DOS or for the Macintosh
operating systems, please contact Multi-Tech Sales.
Assemble the Modem
The only assembly required is to mount the feet on the bottom of the
modem. Simply peel the four self-adhesive plastic feet off the backing strip
and press them into the recesses on the bottom of the modem.
15
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
The ZDX has no special placement restrictions, but we recommend that
you place it where you can see the indicators on the front panel.
Installation Process
To install the modem mechanically, you must connect the serial datalilne,
phone line, and the power cord to their proper connectors.
POWER
Power Connector
(to Transformer)
RS232
DB25 to Computer
PHONE LINE
RJ11/Phone Connection
RJ11/PSTN Connection
Figure 2-2. Modem Connections
To install your modem:
1. Attach modem to dial-up phone line using the RJ11 telephone cord provided
with it. Plug one cable end into the telephone jack; plug the other cable end
into the LINE jack on the modem.
NOTE
The LINE jack is not interchangeable with the PHONE jack (see rear of
modem, Figure 2-2). Do not plug the telephone into the LINE jack or the
line cable into the PHONE jack. BABT regulations require that the
telecommunication cable be connected to the modem prior to being
connected to the network.
2. Attach the modem to your PC or terminal with an RS232 (or V.24) cable (see
Figure 2-1 and Figure 2-2). Be sure to tighten the mounting screws on the
DB connectors.
3. Connect your telephone set to the phone jack using the RJ11 cable.
4. Attach the modem to the AC Power transformer and plug the AC connector
into a live AC outlet.
NOTE Use only the power
supply shipped with the modem. Use of any other power supply will void
the warranty and could damage the modem.
16
User Guide
5. Turn on power by flipping the "ON/OFF" switch (on the side of the
modem) to the "ON" position.
6. Make sure modem and computer/terminal serial port baud rates are
adjusted. (Note that several programs can check this for you. If you have
MS-DOS 5.0 or higher, a program called MSD.EXE [Microsoft Diagnostics]
is in your DOS directory. Typing MSD at the DOS prompt brings up a screen
that provides a variety of information about your computer. Select COM
ports and it lists information about your com port, e.g., UART Type, Address,
and IRQ, to name a few. Once you know your serial port's UART type, you
can set your communications software appropriately.)
7. Proceed to Chapter 3 of this manual, or to your data communications
software manual.
17
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
✳
#
Figure 2-2a. Modem Connections
2.2.1 Sound Card Considerations {ZDXV only}
If you want speakerphone functions along with the ability to record sound or
.WAV files through the sound card at the same time, you need:
two stereo PC microphones
one stereo male-to-male patch cord
one sound card and optional speakers
18
SPKR MIC
User Guide
ON
OFF
Power Switch
ON/OFF
"SPKR" or "LINE
OUT" to connect
to an optional
Speaker--connect
to the "LINE IN"
of a 3rd Party
Sound Card.
"MIC IN" Jack to
connect to an
optional
Microphone.
Figure 2-3. SoundCard Connections {ZDXV only}
To connect to a 3rd party sound card, perform the following steps:
1. Obtain a stereo male-to-male patch cord (which can be purchased at
a local PC retail store).
2. Place one end of a stereo male-to-male patch cord into the SPKR or
LINE OUT jack of the ZDXV and the other end into the LINE IN jack
of the sound card. This lets you to hear the activity of the modem
whether it is originating or answering a call or playing a recorded message
using the bundled Trio software.
3. Place the two stereo microphones (do not use mono microphones) far
enough apart from each other to eliminate feedback (e.g., one on each
side of the monitor). Feedback will only occur if the microphones are too
close to each other. Make sure speakers are amplified with power source
being either a battery or AC outlet.
4. Place the microphone and speakers far enough apart from each other
to eliminate feedback. Plug the connector of both microphones into the
MIC IN jack of both the SoundCard and the ZDXV.
19
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
LED Indicators
The modem has ten LED indicators to report its status (such as verifying
proper installation) and line activity (such as monitoring the status of a
connection).
Figure 2-4. Modem Front Panel
TD
Transmit Data. The TD LED flashes when data is being
transmitted (on for a space, off for a mark). Signals on this circuit
are generated by the terminal and transferred to the transmitter of
the modem. The transmitting terminal should hold this
line in the marking state when no data is being transmitted,
including intervals between characters or words. The TRANSMIT
(TD) LED indicates the status of this circuit.
RD
Receive Data. The RD LED flashes when data is being
received (on for a space, off for a mark). Data signals received
from the remote modem are presented on this line. The
RECEIVE (RD) LED indicates the status of this signal.
CD
Carrier Detect. This LED lights when a valid carrier signal from
another modem is detected.
20
User Guide
56
V.90 or K56flex. This LED is lit when connected to an ISP-type K56flex
server. The actual connection speed is contingent upon server
capabilities and line conditions.
28
V.34. This LED is lit when the modem is connected in V.34 mode.
14
V.32bis. This LED is lit when the modem is connected in V.32bis
mode. Note at speeds lower than a V.32bis connection, the
modem speed LEDs remain unlit.
OH
Off Hook. The condition of Off Hook indicates to the central
office that the modem wants the phone line to do something (i.e., dial or answer a call). This LED is also lit when the
modem has achieved on-line status.
TR
Terminal Ready. When TR is lit, the modem can
answer an incoming call. This signal (TR or DTR) provides a means
for the terminal or computer to control the modem's
connection to the communications channel. The modem needs a high DTR
to communicate. The state of the TR LED matches that of the DTR circuit
on pin 20 of the RS232/V.24 interface.
EC
Error Correction. This LED is lit when the modem is set for V.42
error correction, and flashes on and off when data compression
is activated.
21
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
FX
Fax. This LED is lit when the modem is connected in Fax mode.
Is Your Modem Ready for Use?
As soon as you have connected power to the modem, if youre an experienced
modem user, you may simply want to check your modems settings for data
compression, error correction, and so on. You may find that you can get moving
quite quickly if you just issue the AT&V<cr> command. This command lists
how your modem is currently configured, the stored (user) profiles, and the
first four stored telephone numbers. If you come across a setting youre unsure
of, see Chapter 3 of this manual for AT command and S-Register explanations
and defaults.
If youre a novice, please continue to the next sections of this chapter.
Operating Your Modem
You control your modem by issuing AT commands and setting S-Registers.
Right now your modem is set up for the most typical user application, that is,
as a traditional modem set to make a dial-up call to a remote installation where
the call is answered automatically; therefore, you shouldnt need to change the
current default configuration. (If however, you know that your application does
not follow this profile, see Chapter 3 for AT Commands and S-Registers.)
You will likely use your data communications software either to:
· enter terminal mode, where you can speak most directly to the modem
by issuing AT commands, or to
· launch a datacomm session through a set of modem configurations which
you select and then associate with a target telephone number. Once you
have created, saved, and named this set of information according to
your connection needs and your datacomm softwares conventions, the
software then simplifies your dialing. You need not reconfigure your
modem nor run the risk of mistakenly keying-in incorrect information.
AT is the prefix for nearly all commands issued in terminal mode. AT stands
for attention, and alerts the modem that a command follows. You may enter
these commands with either upper- or lower-case characters. Entering AT
22
User Guide
automatically sets the modems serial baud rate to match your computers
and also sets the modems parity. It also clears the modems command
buffer. Once youre in terminal mode, enter AT followed by <CR> to
check whether your modem is operational. If everythings fine, your
modem will respond OK.
Simple Operations
You can dial by using the ATD command and the phone number of the
modem with which you wish to connect, e.g., ATD6127853500. Your
modem will dial the number. A scrambling noise is heard as the modem
negotiates the kind of connection it can make. Once the modems have settled
on a common connection, a connect message on your computers video is
displayed. To hang up a call, enter ATH0<CR>. Your modem will return on
hook, just as if you had returned a phones handset to its cradle. Your video
now displays OK, signifying that your modem is ready for your next command.
Software Configuration
Communications software must be configured to work with the modem, your
computer, and the remote system it is calling. Fortunately, most communications
programs make the process easy by providing a default initialization string to
your modem as well as defaults for most of the other required parameters.
Some software programs allow you to select your modem type from a menu.
By this method, initialization strings that correspond to a particular modem type
can be selected to operate optimally with the software being used.
*: See your respective software manual for further information on your
communications software.
23
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
Figure 2-5. Modem Initialization Setup
Other software programs require you enter an initialization string in the
software modem setup screen. If this is the requirement in your software
application, enter the following command string to initialize your modem:
AT&F<cr>. This setting configures your modem to operate optimally with its
software.
Hardware/Software Confirmation
To confirm that your modem (hardware) and communications package
(software) are working properly:
1. Go into terminal mode in your communications package.
2. To determine if your computer and modem are communicating properly,
Enter: AT<CR> At this point your video monitor should display OK. If the
characters you typed do not appear or if double characters appear, see the
troubleshooting section of this chapter.
3. To confirm how your modem is configured, enter AT&V<cr>. The current
modem configuration is displayed as show below.
Example:
AT&V
ACTIVE PROFILE:
B0 E1 L1 M1 N1 QO T V1 W0 X4 Y0 &C0 &D0 &G2 &J0 &K3 &Q5 &R1 &S0 &T4 &X0
&Y0
S00:002 S01:000 S02:043 S03:013 S04:010 S05:008 S06:002 S07:030 S08:002
S09:006
S10:014 S11:255 S12:050 S18:000 S25:005 S26:001 S36:007 S37:000 S38:020
S46:138
S48:007 S95:000
24
User Guide
Troubleshooting
Your modem was thoroughly tested at the factory before it was shipped.
If you cannot make a successful connection or if you lose data or notice
garbled characters during your connection, the modem may be defective.
However, it is more likely that the source of your problem lies elsewhere.
Problems you may encounter include:
None of the LEDs light when the modem is on;
The modem does not respond to commands;
The modem dials but is unable to make a connection;
The modem disconnects while online;
The modem cannot connect when answering;
Slow file transfer;
Losing data;or
Garbage characters on the monitor
None of the LEDs Light When the Modem Is On
When you turn on the modem, the LED indicators on the front panel should
flash briefly as the modem runs a self-test. If the LEDs remain off, the modem
is probably not receiving power.
4 Make sure the modems power switch is on, especially if you normally turn on the
modem by turning on a power strip.
4 If the power supply is plugged into a power strip, make sure the power strip is
plugged in, and its power switch is on.
4 Make sure the power supply module is firmly connected to the modem and to the wall
outlet or power strip.
4 If the power strip is on and the modem switch is on, try moving the modem power
supply to another outlet on the power strip.
4 Test the outlet is live by plugging a lamp into it.
4 The modem or power supply may be defective. If you have another Multi-Tech
modem, try swapping modems. If the problem goes away, the first modem or power
supply may be defective. Call Tech Support for assistance.
*: Do not under any circumstances replace the power
supply module with one designed for another product, as it
may damage the modem and void your warranty.
25
Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
The Modem Does Not Respond to Commands
4 Make sure the modem is plugged in and turned on. (See None of the LEDs Light
When the Modem Is On.)
4 Make sure you are issuing the modem commands from the data communications
software, either manually in terminal mode or automatically once you have
configured the software. (You cannot send commands to the modem from the DOS
prompt.)
4 Make sure you are in terminal mode in your data communications program, then
type AT and press ENTER. If you get an OK response, your connections are good
and the problem likely is in your phonebook entry or session settings. Be sure your
modem is not in data mode when you type a command. Use the escape character
sequence to switch to terminal mode. The default escape sequence must wait
at least one second, enter +++, and pause another second or more before
entering a command.
4 The E0 and Q1 commands may be in effect, disabling echo and responses. Verify
this with the &V command. To enable echo and responses, enter ATE1Q0<cr>.
4 Try resetting your modem by turning it off and on. Make sure there is a reset
command (&F) in your initialization string, or your modem may not initialize
correctly.
4 If you dont get an OK, the problem may still be in the communications software.
Make sure you have done whatever is necessary in your software to make a port
connection. Not all communications programs connect to the COM port automatically. Some connect when the software loads and remain connected until the
program terminates. Others can disconnect without exiting the program. Many
communications software packages also allow multiple terminals to be open, but only
one can access the modem at a time. If your package reports that it cannot make a
connection, yet the modems TR indicator is on, click on the Window menu to see if
more than one terminal is open. The modems TR indicator shows that the software
has made a connection with the modem through the COM port.
4 Your communications software settings may not match the physical port the modem
is connected to. The serial cable may be plugged into the wrong connectorcheck
your computer documentation to make sure. Or, you may have selected a COM port
in your software other than the one the modem is physically connected tocompare
the settings in your software to the physical connection.
4 If the modem is on, the cable is plugged into the correct port, the communications
software is configured correctly, and you still dont get an OK, the fault may be in the
serial cable. Make sure it is firmly connected at both ends.
4 Is this the first time you have used the cable? If so, it may not be correct. Check
the cable description on the packaging to make sure the cable is the right one for
your computer.
4 Peripheral expansion cards, such as bus mouse and sound cards, may include a
serial port preconfigured as COM1 or COM2. The extra serial port, or the card
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User Guide
itself, may use the same COM port, memory address, or interrupt request (IRQ)
as your communications port. Be sure to disable any unused ports.
To look for address conflicts or IRQ conflicts when using Windows 3.1x, begin
in Program Manager. Select File, Run. Type MSD, and press ENTER. Then select
Mouse, COM Ports, and IRQ Status and note the addresses and IRQs that are in use.
If you find an IRQ conflict, note which IRQs are not being used, then change one of
the conflicting devices to use one of the unused IRQs. If you find an address conflict,
change the address of one of the conflicting devices.
To change a port address or IRQ in Windows 3.1x, double-click the Control Panel
icon, then the Ports icon. Click on the port you want to change, click Settings,
click Advanced, and select the new port address and/or interrupt. If you wish
to use COM3 or COM4, note that COM3 shares an IRQ with COM1, as does COM4
with COM2, so you should change their IRQs to unused ones, if possible.
If you use Windows 95, right-click on My Computer, select Properties from the
menu, click on the Device Manager tab, double-click on Ports, then double-click
on the Communications Port your modem is connected to. In the ports Properties
sheet, click on the Resources tab to see the ports Input/Output range and
Interrupt Request. If another device is using the same address range or IRQ,
it will appear in the Conflicting Device List. Uncheck Use Automatic Settings to
change the ports settings so they do not conflict with the other device, or select
the port the conflicting device is on and change it instead. If you need to open
your computer to change switches or jumpers on the conflicting device; refer to
the devices documentation.
4 The serial port may be defective. If you have another serial port, install the
modem on it, change the COM port setting in your software, and try again.
4 The modem may be defective. If you have another Multi-Tech modem, try swapping
modems. If the problem goes away, the first modem is possibly defective. Call Tech
Support for assistance (see Chapter 5).
The Modem Dials But Cannot Make a Connection
The modem may fail to make a connection for one of several reasons:
modem is not configured properly.
modem is disconnected from the telephone line.
a wrong dial tone.
a busy signal.
a wrong number.
no modem at the other end.
a faulty modem, computer, or software at the other end.
incompatibility between modems.
You can narrow the list of possibilities by using extended result codes. To enable
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Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
them, enter ATV1X4 and press ENTER while in terminal mode, or include
V1X4 in the modems initialization string. When you dial again, the modem
will report the calls progress.
4 Both local and remote modems may be misconfigured, thus encumbering the
negotiation process between modems. The solution may be to modify modem
parameters via AT command strings. There are other configurations you can
modify as well. Note that you can return to the modem's default configuration
by entering AT&F.
If your application requires modification, use the command strings shown below
corresponding to your application:
4 If the modem reports NO DIALTONE, check that the modems telephone line cable
is connected to both the modems LINE jack (not the PHONE jack) and the
telephone wall jack. If the cable looks secure, try replacing it. If that doesnt work,
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User Guide
the problem may be in your buildings telephone installation. To test the building
installation, plug a telephone into your modems telephone wall jack and listen for
a dial tone. If you hear a dial tone, your modem may be installed behind a company
phone system (PBX) with an internal dial tone that sounds different from the
normal dial tone. In that case, the modem may not recognize the dial tone and
may treat it as an error. Check your PBX manual to see if you can change the
internal dial tone; if you cant, change your modems initialization string to replace
X4 with X3, which will cause the modem to ignore dial tones.
4 If the modem reports BUSY, the other number may be busy, in which case you
should try again later, or it may indicate that you have failed to add a 9, prefix
to the phone number if you must dial 9 for an outside line.
If you must dial 9 to get an outside line, the easiest way to dial it automatically
is to include it in the modems dial prefix, e.g., ATDT9,. Note the comma, which
inserts a pause before the number is dialed. By inserting 9, into the dial prefix,
you do not have to include it in each directory entry.
To change the dial prefix in your communications package, select Setup, Modem;
then select the modem type you are using, and type the new prefix in the Dial
Prefix box. To change the dial prefix in Windows Terminal, select Settings, Modem
Commands.
To change it in Windows 95 HyperTerminal, select Call, Connect from the menu
bar, click Dialing Properties, and type 9 in the local and long distance boxes in How
I Dial from This Location.
4 If the modem reports NO ANSWER, the other system has failed to go off-hook,
or you might have dialed a wrong number. Check the number.
4 If the modem reports NO CARRIER, the phone was answered at the other end,
but no connection was made. You might have dialed a wrong number, and a person
answered instead of a computer, or you might have dialed the correct number
but the other computer or software was turned off or faulty. Check the number
and try again, or try calling another system to make sure your modem is working.
Also, try calling the number on your telephone. If you hear harsh sounds, then
another modem is answering the call, and the modems may be having problems
negotiating because of modem incompatibilities or line noise. Try connecting at
a lower speed.
The Modem Disconnects While Online
4 If you have call waiting on the same phone line as your modem, it may interrupt
your connection when someone tries to call you. If you have call waiting, disable
it before each call. In most telephone areas, you can disable call waiting by
preceding the telephone number with *70 (check with your local telephone
company).
You can automatically disable call waiting by including the disabling code in the
modems dial prefix (e.g., ATDT*70,note the comma, which inserts a pause
before the number is dialed). To change the dial prefix in your communications
package, select Setup, Modem; then select the modem type you are using, and type
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Models MT5600ZDX & ZDXV
the new prefix in the Dial Prefix box. To change the dial prefix in Windows
Terminal, select Settings, Modem Commands. To change it in Windows 95
HyperTerminal, select Call, Connect from the menu bar, click Dialing Properties,
check This Location has Call Waiting, and select the correct code for your phone
service.
4 If you have extension phones on the same line as your modem, you or someone else
can interrupt the connection by picking up another phone. If this is a frequent
problem, disconnect the extension phones before using the modem, or install
another phone line especially for the modem.
4 Check for loose connections between the modem and the computer, the telephone
jack, and AC power.
4 You may have had a poor connection because of line conditions or the problem
may have originated on the other end of the line. Try again.
4 If you were online with a BBS, it may have hung up on you because of lack of
activity on your part or because you exceeded your time limit for the day. Try
again.
The Modem Cannot Connect When Answering
4 Auto-answer may be disabled. Turn on auto-answer in your datacomm program
or send the command ATS0=1 to your modem in terminal mode.
Slow File Transfer
4 You may have an older UART. For best throughput, install a 16550AFN UART or
a Multi-Tech ISI serial port card.
4 If you are running under Windows 3.1 and have a 16550AFN UART, you must
replace the Windows serial driver, COMM.DRV, to take full advantage of the
UARTs speed.
4 If you are using a slow transfer protocol, such as Xmodem or Kermit, try Zmodem
or Ymodem/G instead.
4 Is your line noisy? If there is static on your line, the modem has to resend many
blocks of data to insure accuracy. You must have a clean line for maximum speed.
4 Are you downloading a compressed file with MNP 5 hardware compression
enabled? Since hardware data compression cannot compress a file already
compressed by an archiving program, the transfer can be marginally slower with
data compression enabled than with it disabled.
4 Try entering the &V (View Parameters) command, making a screen print of the
diagnostics listing, and checking for parameters that may be unacceptable.
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