Multitech ISIHI-2S User Manual page 123

Introduction
This chapter covers common problems you may have with your ISIHx server card and how to solve them. The
ISIHx was thoroughly tested at the factory before shipping. If you are unable to connect successfully, or if you
experience data loss or garbled characters, during connecting, it is possible the modem or terminal adapter is
defective. However, it is more likely that the source of your problem lies elsewhere. Always make sure all
hardware is connected properly. Then review the common problems listed in this chapter for recommendations
on what to change or do. Problems you may encounter include the following:
• The TA/modem does not respond to commands.
• The TA/modem dials but cannot make a connection.
• You can place data calls but not voice calls, or vice versa.
• You cannot place two simultaneous data calls.
• The TA/modem disconnects while online.
• The TA/modem cannot connect when answering.
• File transfer appears slower than it should be.
• Data is being lost
• There are garbage characters on the monitor
If you experience problems, please check the following possibilities before calling Tech Support (see Chapter 4).
The terminal adapter does not respond to commands
• Make sure you issue commands from the data communications software, either automatically or manually,
in terminal mode. (You cannot send commands to the TA/modem from the DOS prompt.)
• Make sure you are in terminal mode in your data communications program; then type AT and press
ENTER. If you get an OK response, your connections are good and the problem likely is in your
phonebook entry or session settings.
• If you don't get an OK, the problem may still be in the communications software. Make sure you have
done whatever is necessary in your software to make a port connection. Not all communications programs
connect to the COM port automatically. Some connect when the software loads and remain connected
until the program ends. Others, like MultiExpress Terminal, can disconnect without ending the program
(make sure the Connect icon looks plugged in). MultiExpress Terminal also allows multiple terminals to
be open, but only one can access the modem/TA at a time.
• Your communications software settings may not match the physical port where the TA is connected. You
may have selected a COM port in your software other than the one where the TA/modem is connected—
compare the settings in your software to the connection.
• Peripheral expansion cards, such as bus mouse and sound cards, may include a serial port preconfigured
as COM1 or COM2. The extra serial port, or the card itself, may use the same COM port, memory
address, or interrupt request (IRQ) as your communications port. Be sure to disable any unused ports.
To look for address or IRQ conflicts if you use Windows 3.1x, select File then Run in Program
Manager. Type MSD and press ENTER. Then select Mouse, COM Ports, and IRQ Status and note the
addresses and IRQs that are in use. If you find an IRQ conflict, note which IRQs are not being used, then
Chapter 6 - Troubleshooting
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