Ethernet Card/Port and Problems

Question

I have a Dimension 4400 and couple of months ago I had switched to Broadband internet service and when the technician was setting up my modem he said that I didn't have an ethernet card so I use a USB port. Now recently I have been having problems with my Motorola surfboard SB 5100 series modem and now I can't get it to work. Usually when I turn the computer the PCActivity light on the modem is supposed to be blinking but it doesnt and now I can't get to the internet. Whenever I do reconnect the USB cable I get a message saying it is an Unknown Device or that the device that I'm trying to connect has malfunctioned. I understand that I have to install a driver for the modem, but the technician did that when it was first set up. Is there a problem with my modem or the USB cables? Is there an ethernet card or port on the computer? because I can't seem to find one. Is it possible to switch to using an ethernet card after using USB?

Bobman101 · Answer

Did you reformat or reinstall Windows or anything recently? If so, maybe you do need the drivers reinstalled. I don't know much about that though. Personally, I'd get a network card and install it yourself. They're but maybe ten dollars and you open the case, put it in a PCI slot, and you're literally done. Message Edited by Bobman101 on 10-31-2005 03:05 PM

Bawoo · Answer

I haven't reformatted or reinstalled windows..it was working perfectly fine one day and then next it didn't work. The technician gave me the Motorola surfboard modem box w/the installation CD and when I  run it everything turns out ok except when the program says it's testing the connection between the modem and the computer. Then I get a message saying it failed and I need to make sure that the cables are securely in. I tried that almost 10times and it never seems to work. I also contacted my cable company their 24/7 technical support and they said that I had to reinstall the drivers...but I can't because I can never finish the installation. If the problem is the USB set up can I have some recommendations for a good, solid, and reliable ethernet card? I heard that Linksys, Netgear are suitable. Can I get some specifics? Message Edited by Bawoo on 10-31-2005 02:17 PM

Bobman101 · Answer

Hmm, to be honest, I wouldn't know. As for ethernet cards, any $10 one should do. The only time I've heard that the brand makes a difference is when you're using wireless. I didn't see anything in the specifications on the Dimension 4400 as to having an onboard network adapter, but it may (as some systems have versions with and without onboard material). it will look like a regular phone jack but it's about one and a half times the size in width. Basically, you'll mistake it for a phone jack at first glance and it'll be up near the top where all the motherboard stuff is (not below where the backs of the cards will show). If you can't find it, you'll need to get one seperately.

Bawoo · Answer

I am planning on setting up a wireless network with a router b/c currently I am using my sister's laptop. So if I'm gonna go the wireless route are there any ethernet cards in particular that would be more suitable?

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Ethernet Card/Port and Problems

Was this post helpful?