Using an Unsupported Modem with Windows NT RAS

ID: Q150424

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT operating system version 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows NT Advanced Server
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation versions 3.5, 3.51, 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server versions 3.5, 3.51, 4.0
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Server
  • Microsoft Windows 2000 Advanced Server

SUMMARY

Some modems that are not listed on the Windows NT Hardware Compatibility List (HCL) can still be used successfully with Windows NT Remote Access Service (RAS).


MORE INFORMATION

Microsoft does not guarantee the functionality of hardware not present in the most recent version of the Windows NT HCL; however, one of the following workarounds may allow you to use an unsupported modem with Windows NT RAS.

  1. Many modem vendors have created Modem.inf files for use with Windows NT RAS. See if yours has by visiting the modem vendor's WWW site or BBS.


  2. When you are configuring RAS, select a modem setting of "Hayes Compatible." RAS includes support for four generic "Hayes Compatible XXXX" modems, where XXXX represents 1200, 2400, 9600, or 14400 (pick the proper speed for your modem). Configuring your modem as a Hayes Compatible device may allow it to function properly with RAS.


  3. Select another modem by the same manufacturer as your modem. If your modem is similar (e.g., if it has the same speed or supported communication standards) to a Windows NT-supported modem by the same manufacturer, try configuring your modem in RAS as that supported modem. You may need to modify the Modem.inf section of the supported modem to make it compatible with your modem.


  4. Edit the Modem.inf file and add a new section for your modem. Before making any changes to Modem.inf, make a backup of the file. Use one of the existing modem sections as a template for your new section. Modify the settings to reflect the appropriate commands for your modem, as defined in the documentation for your modem.


You can find the list of requirements for a Modem.inf section by searching for the following topic in the Remote Access Help File (Rasphone.hlp):
MODEM.INF, modifying

For additional information, please see the following article(s) in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

Q150808 Disabling Support for Unimodem Modems in Remote Access

Additional query words: unlisted device

Keywords : ntras ntsetup
Version : :; WINDOWS:2000; winnt:3.5,3.51,4.0
Platform : WINDOWS winnt
Issue type :


Last Reviewed: January 21, 2000
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