FLIGHTNURSE,

Do you have any other phones on the same phone line?  Answering machines?  Fax machines?  If so, disconnect these things and try again.  The problem is that the modem is detecting a very weak dial tone signal.  This can be caused by having other phones and such connected to the same phone line. 

Also, please do not post in all CAPS.  This is the equivalent of shouting at everyone. 

Steve

Steve,

  Sorry about the all caps...anyways no i do not have anything but a phone connected. everything is connected correctly.no fax machines,other phones or anything.i have had sbc come out and double check everything up to the modem.no problems with the line. ive even switched ports with modem to every other port and always the same error..should i just send it back to dell or what?? ive only had this new comp a few days and it has never hooked up. i appreciate your help....

         scotty

FLIGHTNURSE,

Are you using Dial up or DSL ?  Is the line connected to a USB port?

Steve

FLIGHTNURSE,

If you do not have any phones or other devices connected to your phone line, and the phone company says that the dial tone signal is good, then the modem is most likely defective.  To have it replaced, you will need to contact the Dell Techies by phone or by chat.  They will guide you through a number of steps before they will be able to replace the modem.

Steve

hey steve,

   thank you very much for your help...i very much appreciate it....scotty