Modem problem with NetZero

[networkman]

Modem: Conexant 56hsp Data Fax RTAM PCI
PC's OS: Win98SE
ISP and SW version: NetZero QS 1.2

Using the CD provided by NetZero, installation goes fine. After selecting a local access number and entering valid username/password, the modem begins to try to dial but is not able to establish a connection. However, through trial and error, we've found that if we pick up another phone in the house(only 1 line total), off of the receiver, then click the Connect button in the NetZero program, it will then dial and establish a connection to the NetZero service and all will work fine, at which point we can then hang up the phone's reciever and proceed with the "Internet experience". I know, it sounds bizarre, and I didn't believe it myself until I saw it.

So far, we've tried a dozen different local-access numbers with no difference. The RJ-11 line is plugged directly from the wall into the modem jack(yes, the "wall" one, not "phone"), and it makes no difference if the phone picked up during the dialing sequence of the modem is plugged into the modem or some other jack in the house.

Now to throw in another curve: Windows 98 indicates the modem drivers are loaded fine and the device is working correctly; further, I can use DialUp networking to dial my cell phone just fine(without picking up another phone), and I can also dial in fine to a local ISP(that I use for my own local email), again without picking up a phone. Lastly, I took the entire PC back to my house, plugged it into one of the phone jack via my DSL line, and it dialed and connected to NetZero without incident(ie, not having to pick up a phone to complete the dial/login sequence).

This all makes no sense to me so if anyone has some ideas to explain it, I'm game.

 

[Gentle]

Oh, bad line conditions out from the wall jack?

To many devices (phone, fax, dish receiver, so on) on your line?

Not really sure beyond those ideas.

I've been out of the "dial-up' loop since early 2000.

Gentle

 

[tyanni]

I have to agree with Gentle - since it works at another place, its clearly a problem with the lines in the original location of the computer. Often, there is a box on the outside of the house which you can plug in the phone to test the connection from the pole, I'd run a line directly from this to your pc and try. If it works, its definitely the house wiring, and you will need to have it looked at by the telephone company. If it doesn't work, then its probably a problem with the line to the house. Either way, talk to your telephone company.