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(April 25, 2001) - Dial-up connections to the Dartmouth network have become
unstable in recent months. In part, this is due to supporting faster (56K)
modems, a step up from the previous standard of 33.6, but we suspect other
technical issues are causing the instability as well. We apologize for the
inconvenience and want to assure dial-up users that we are actively working to
improve reliability.
Under the best of circumstances, providing reliable dial-up connections to a
network can be challenging. In rural areas such as ours, the environment is
even more difficult (and has apparently deteriorated in recent months).
Many factors can affect the quality of a data connection between a home
computer and the campus, and these factors vary depending on where you live.
The route that a connection takes, the phone company's equipment along that
route and in your neighborhood, and even weather are factors that can affect
the quality of a connection.
The recent deterioration of service is especially vexing to us because we've
upgraded the hardware at the campus end of the connection and recently
installed scores of new modems, including a bank of modems in the Hanover
calling zone. We'll continue to study the problem and work with Verizon to find
a solution.
In the meantime, here are some suggestions for you to consider:
- Check for updated firmware for your Apple 56K modem. Recent model
Macintoshes with built-in modems have upgradeable firmware. Apple has provided
an update (Oct. 2000 v2.300-V90) that improves the reliability and throughput
speed for most PowerBook G3 Series, iMac, Power Macintosh G3 (Blue and White),
and Power Macintosh G4 computers.
- The updater is available on the PUBLIC file server in the "Third party
Support: Apple Computer, Inc.: Networking & Communications: Modem: Apple
Modem Updater 2.0" folder. The Apple System Profiler application reports
the current version of the modem firmware. Other modem manufacturers also offer
firmware updates. Check their support Web sites for information.
- When using Apple internal 56K modems, try using the modem at a slower speed
if the connection is being dropped. In the Modem Control Panel choose:
"Apple Internal 56K Modem (V.34)" instead of "Apple Internal 56K
Modem (V.90)." Other modem manufacturers may also offer different modem
scripts to accomplish something similar.
- If either Dartmouth 56K modem pool number is a local call, test both
numbers and use the one from which you get the best results. The number for the
Hanover modem pool is 653-5250; the number for the Norwich modem pool is
649-0300.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Help Desk at
646-2999 (press 1). Located at 171Carson Hall; open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00
p.m., weekdays.
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