Most modern computers come with a USB port instead of, or in addition to, a serial port for modem communications. Although many computers are originally configured with a 56K modem integrated into the motherboard, when the on-board modem fails to function, a USB modem is the best replacement. A USB modem is easy to hook up and takes only a few minutes to install.
Locate the USB port on your computer. The USB port is a small opening is approximately 1/2 inch wide and 1/8 inch thick. Your computer may be equipped with two or more USB modem ports placed closely together.
2
Plug one end of the USB cable into the USB compatible modem.
3
Plug the other end of the cable into the USB port on your computer. The ends of the modem cable generally have a design stamped on the side that faces up.
4
See if your operating system recognizes the new modem hardware. Most USB modems are plug and play, and newer operating systems will know they have been attached.
5
Reboot your computer if the operating system did not recognize the new hardware.
6
Place the installation disk in the proper drive. If the modem installation program doesn't start automatically, navigate to the drive and click on "Setup."
7
Follow the onscreen instructions for setting up your modem operations.
8
Reboot your computer and set up a new connection for your Internet use by specifying the new modem as the default connection.
Tips & Warnings
Once you have the USB modem installed, normally you can unplug it when not in use. When you plug the modem back in to the USB port, the operating system will find it automatically.
Most USB modems are small and will fit into a shirt pocket for easy transport from one place to another.
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