Dial-up modems are used to connect to a computer network. In a process called modulation, modems translate a data signal from the computer into a series of audible sounds. The sounds are transferred via a telephone line to a remote computer and then are translated back (in a process called demodulation) into data signals. Add-on modems typically have two ports that look like telephone jacks. If the modem is sharing a telephone line with a corded telephone, it is important to plug the telephone service line into the proper jack; otherwise, the modem will connect to the network at much lower speeds, if it connects at all.
Step 1
Plug one end of the first telephone cable into the wall jack. Plug the other end of the cable into the "Line" port on the modem.
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Step 2
Plug one end of the second telephone cable into the input jack on the telephone. Plug the other end of this cable into the "Phone" port on the modem. Please note: the "Phone" port may have a picture of a telephone on it rather than the word "Phone."
Step 3
Pick up the telephone receiver; you should hear a dial tone. If you do not, check the cable connections to ensure that the connections are snug.
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