Why does my modem abruptly disconnect sometimes?

Generally, there will probably always be an occasional disconnect. After all, we are dealing with phone lines being pushed to their limits with V.34 and V.90 modems. Phone lines were designed for voice, not for data transmission. But if you're getting a lot more than the occasional disconnect, something is wrong and you should methodically follow the steps below.

Reason & Solution #1:

Disconnections may be caused by momentary drops of DTR (Data Terminal Ready). By default, most modems respond to a drop of DTR by hanging up. With US Robotics modems add ATS25=200 to your Modem String, with other modems add ATS10=200. This sets the duration, in hundredths of a second, that DTR must be dropped so that the modem doesn't interpret a random glitch as a DTR loss.

Reason & Solution #2:

A similar possibility to the one above is that your modem could not distinguish between a line hit, or other disturbances that momentarily break the connection, from a true disconnect by the remote modem. Add ATS10=254 to the Modem String to set the duration, in tenths of a second, that the modem waits after loss of carrier before hanging up.

Reason & Solution #3:

If you have call waiting and a call comes in while you are connected to ICEWEB.NET, your modem might interpret the second signal as a disconnect by the remote modem. Ask your phone company how to temporarily disable call waiting. With Verizon, you normally need to ad *70, to the beginning of your phone number string. For example,  *70,301-334-2080. Also, keep in mind that ICEWEB.NET does not have an idle timeout, so we won't disconnect you for any reason other than non payment or violation of the law or ICEWEB.NET rules. Remember ICEWEB.NET does not condone a 24 hour 7 day a week connection on standard dial up service. This is available at an additional $75.00 per month.

Reason & Solution #4:

If you suspect line noise, try solutions #1 and #2 above. Also, listen in on the line for static, ask your phone company to test the line (although they usually only test for voice grade as opposed to data grade), and try reducing your baud rate (a.k.a. port speed). Also disconnect EVERYTHING from your phone lines, including a laser printer from the electrical outlet. If you phone company tells you they are testing the phone line while you are talking to them on the phone, this is invalid. The phone company must come out on sight to do a valid test, so don't let them get away with passing the buck. Your phone company is responsible for the connection between you and ICEWEB.NET.

If you use devices that allow you to connect your phone line to an electrical outlet for surge protection, remove it and try your connection again, it may be damaged and need replaced. I.C. Electronics, ICEWEB.NET has high quality line and surge protection available. Also, keep the phone line at least three inches away from electrical cords, extension cords, printer cables, etc. Inductance from electrical lines and radio transmitters wreaks havoc with phone lines. And avoid using phone splitters of any kind.

Reason & Solution #5:

One common cause of disconnects is modem incompatibility between your modem and the remote modem. No modem is completely compatible with every other modem. Be sure to check with the modem manufacturer periodically for firmware and driver upgrades. Do not assume that just because your modem is new that it contains the latest firmware and drivers, and is not defective.

Reason & Solution #6:

Check your phone cable for defects. Or better yet, just replace it with a brand new one. Also, if you have an external modem, make sure your modem cable connections are tight and the cable is also free of defects. Generally, the modem cable should be replaced every year or so, depending of course on frequency of use.

Reason & Solution #7:

If you're disconnected shortly after logging in, you may be attempting simultaneous logins on the same account. Make sure no one is logged-in to your account such as a family member at home or work. If this isn't the case, try to add a Modem String to make your connection stronger. Check your modem's instruction manual for specific information about settings.

Reason & Solution #8:

Compressing the data too much may cause a delay in communication. Turning off software compression in you dialer setup may help with stable modem connections.

Current Solutions being tested:

I.C. Electronics is currently testing a line conditioning filter that may help with slow connections and disconnects. We will post our findings as soon as we have completed our tests. If this filter performs, it will be sold for as little as $39.95 to our active internet dial up customers only.