Yes, my 8400 modem makes a weird sound at the end of the log-in, just like yours.  The only thing that is upsetting is the slow speed.  Mine averages just 33.2 - how about yours?  I have an Intel 537EP V.9x

Yeah, I got the same modem.  Mine though almost always connects at around 45 kbps.  Which is really good for AWOL!  Something is odd about yours connecting at only 33 kbps.  Did you ever try connecting from another phone jack or house even?  Sometimes it's your phoneline.  Try another jack or house and if that doesn't produce results, i'd call dell and ask whats up.

I've tried virtually everything, changing lines, disconnecting the answering machine and telephone, talking to Dell, Earthlink, Intel, and even US Robotics.  My previous Dell computer with a USR modem connected every time at 50K.  Then I bought a new Dell.  They're sending me a new modem, but I am not confident that it will work.

Thanks for the response.