Modem error code 70 problem

Question

I have a Dimension 4600 with the original modem, running XP.  I kept getting a no dial tone message when trying to connect to the internet (ISP is MSN).  Checked all the phone lines and phone cables, and the phone worked fine with all the cables.  Then I ran modem helper and got a result code 70.  Called Dell tech support, and after doing the reset to original hardware config,  the tech had me taking the cover off and removing the modem.  I did not have the tiny offset screwdriver needed to pull the modem out, and was reluctant to start taking the thing apart.  Told him I'd have my IT dept do it.  Then I realized that he never mentioned the anti-static measures that need to be taken.  It was an hour wasted on the phone.  I tried running thru the online help thru another computer, and they mentioned deleting the modem driver, and then re-downloading it.  How are you supposed to do this if you modem does not work - you can't CONNECT!!  I am frustrated.   Could it be the ISP's dial tone that it did not detect?

fireberd · Answer

The dial tone it is not detecting is your own voice telephone dial tone.    They apparently want you to 'reseat' the modem and see if that helps.  Reseat - remove the modem from the PCI expansion slot and then reinstall making sure it's correctly and fully seated.   As far as uninstalling the drivers, you can do that with or without the modem.  But you will need the modem installed when you reinstall them.    Finally, you say you checked the telephone line, however, did you check the telco connection that the modem connects to, and did you check the RJ-11 telco interconnect cable that is used between the modem and the telco wall jack?  If not, that is a potential source of problems.

redbug119 · Answer

I have no idea how to even check those connections or where to begin looking.  I have however, have decided to give into my teenagers pleading for me to come into the 21st century and go broadband.    My IT dept says I won't need to worry about the internal moden if I do that.

fireberd · Answer

They are correct and you will be much better off with broadband.  If you have an Ethernet interface use that for the broadband modem.  Some will also work with USB but the Ethernet is the preferred interface.

redbug119 · Answer

I have Ethernet, so I will use that.  Funny thing,  the following morning and yesterday it connected fine.  Then last night in the middle of my daughters download (and after she'd been on line at least an hour), she lost the connection and got the same error message we've been getting.  And the phone worked fine.  I'm saying goodbye to MSN dial-up.  Broadband, here I come.  Thanks for your help.

Networking, Internet, & Bluetooth

Modem error code 70 problem

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