How to Remove a DSL Signal From a Phone Line

Remove DSL line noise from a phone line for quiet conversations.

DSL is high-speed Internet access that is run through a phone line. While this makes it easy to install and to use, in some cases owners may experience line noise. This typically involves pops and crackles on the line during phone conversations, but it can also include echoing and in some cases high-pitched whining noises. If DSL is installed on every jack in the home, this noise will affect every phone extension. In order to get rid of this line noise, you must install a filter at every jack where a phone will be used.

Instructions

1. Ask your DSL company for noise filters. Most companies will supply at least one noise filter when you have your DSL installed. However, some may not or you may require more than one filter. If necessary, you may need to purchase additional filters at a local electronics store.

2. Determine where the phone line should be plugged in on the filter. A DSL noise filter will have one small line out the back that goes into the wall jack, and a small box with two plug-ins on the front. Your DSL line that goes to the modem should be plugged into one and the phone line should be plugged into the other. Most filters will be marked to tell you which line goes where.

3. Plug the filter into the wall jack. Take the one line on the back of the filter and plug it into your wall jack. Take your time and gently insert it into the jack. Never force the line in, as you could damage the connections.

4. Plug the DSL line into the appropriate spot on the filter. This line will run from the filter to your modem, and the connections are set up for data communications, not voice.

5. Plug your phone into the other spot on the filter. While you can use a line splitter on your noise filter, it is best to plug only one extension into the filter for the best line quality.

6. Test the connection. Pick up your phone and place a test call to see if you are still experiencing any line noise. Repeat these steps with any additional phone extensions in your house that have DSL wired through them.

References

• Hubris: How to Use DSL Line Filters