How to Connect to a Remote Computer Using HyperTerminal

You can connect to a remote computer using HyperTerminal, a program included with Microsoft Windows. This allows you to access computer bulletin boards, perform telnet operations or transfer files between two computers over telephone lines. These instructions apply only to Windows 98. The process may vary with other operating systems.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• HyperTerminal Private Edition 5

1. Locate the telephone number of the computer that you want to connect to.

2. Open the Start menu and select Programs, then Accessories, then Communication. Click on HyperTerminal.

3. If a folder opens, double-click the Hypertrm icon.

4. If you receive a message saying "Upgrade HyperTerminal," click OK to continue.

5. Enter the name of your new connection. This could be "City Library" or however you want to identify the computer that you are calling.

6. Click on an icon that you want to use to represent the remote connection. Click OK. Another window will appear.

7. Check to be sure that your area code, country code and modem information are correct. Then enter the phone number of the computer that you want to dial.

8. Click Dial. The computer will dial the number that you have listed. When HyperTerminal connects with the other terminal, you will see a text screen.

9. Follow the instructions on the text screen. How you proceed from here depends on how the other computer has been set up to receive calls.

10. If you want to save the settings and the icon so you can dial the remote computer automatically next time, click Save Settings before you exit.

Tips & Warnings

• Perhaps the most typical use for HyperTerminal is to connect with computer bulletin boards, which are often found in public libraries and universities or are sometimes operated by individuals who grant you access as a public service or for a fee. You can also use HyperTerminal to transfer files back and forth between your computer and another private computer, provided the other party is running HyperTerminal and has set the function to accept or send a file between his or her computer and your computer.
• Remember that you are not using the Internet or your ISP. If you have dialed a long-distance number, the same charges will apply to your phone bill as if you were talking over the phone.