Introduction
Thank you for purchasing the Actiontec Home DSL Modem. This product will introduce a whole new world of high speed Internet access. With a quick and easy installation process, you will be browsing the Web in no time.
The Actiontec Home DSL Modem will transform your online experience. The high-speed Internet connection will let you play online multi-player games, download files faster, and get real-time audio and video. Plus, you can surf the Web and chat on the telephone at the same time. You will never miss an important telephone call again. Welcome to the world of high-speed Internet access!
This product is only configured to work with America Online as your Internet Service Provider. Contact Gateway technical support to learn how to configure this modem for other DSL service providers.
Installing the modem
To install
the modem:
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Connect one end of the included USB cable to a USB port on your computer.
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Connect the other end to the USB port on the back of the modem.
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Connect one end of the included telephone cord to the telephone wall jack.
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Connect the other end to the Line jack on the back of the modem.
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Connect the telephone cord from your telephone to a microfilter, then connect the microfilter to the Phone jack on the back of the modem.
- Connect the included power cable to the power connector on the back of the modem, then to a wall power outlet.
Installing the microfilters
Microfilters are installed on telephones to improve voice call quality when voice and data equipment are using the same telephone line.
Every telephone, answering machine, and V.90 analog modem requires a microfilter. Do not use a microfilter with HPNA cards or HPNA/V.90 modem cards.
To install microfilters on phones that are connected to a computer:
To install the microfilters on all other phones:
Installing the modem drivers and configuring the modem
To install
the modem drivers:
Installing your AOL Plus™ software
Current members
You should already be signed up for the AOL PlusTM service with DSL. If not, log on to America Online using your current analog modem and go to AOL keyword DSL. Click Yes! I Want Superfast AOL and sign up for the service. Once you are signed up, complete the following steps.
To install
AOL Plus™:
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Select Upgrading to a new version of AOL on this computer, then click Next. A message asks you to restart your computer.
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Click OK. Your computer restarts. When the computer restarts, it sets up the DSL files on your computer, then a message asks you to restart your computer again.
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Click Yes. The computer restarts and repeats the process, then a message asks you to restart your computer again.
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Click Yes. The computer restarts, then a message asks you to restart your computer again.
- Click Yes. The computer restarts and America Online setup program opens.
New members
To install
AOL Plus™:
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Place the AOL Plus™ CD in your CD/DVD drive. The AOL Plus™ setup program starts.
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Select New Member, then click Next. A message asks you to restart your computer.
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Click OK. Your computer restarts. When the computer restarts, it sets up the DSL files on your computer, then a message asks you to restart your computer again.
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Click Yes. The computer restarts and repeats the setup process, then a message asks you to restart your computer again.
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Click Yes. The computer restarts and a message asks you to restart your computer again.
- Click Yes. The computer restarts and America Online setup program opens.
Troubleshooting
I have more than 4 phones in my home. Where can I get more microfilters?
Your Home DSL Modem package includes four (4) microfilters. To purchase additional wall filters, in-line filters, or special line-2 DSL filters, use AOL Keyword: DSL Store.
It has been days since I signed up for DSL with America Online and my service still has not been activated.
Contact America Online at 1-888-849-3200, from 8:00AM to 1:00AM EST, to find out about the status of your order.
Does anyone need to visit my home?
No. The only problem that may require a home visit is if your telephone lines are in poor condition. America Online will be able to tell you if this problem exists. If you need assistance please contact America Online Technical Support at 1-888-849-3200, from 8:00AM to 1:00AM EST.
I am not using America Online as my DSL service provider.
This product is only configured for America Online. Contact Gateway technical support to learn how to configure this modem for other DSL service providers.
My computer cannot find my Home DSL Modem.
To make
sure your modem is installed correctly:
Since installing my Home DSL Modem, my analog modem does not work.
To make
sure your modem is installed correctly:
When I pick up my telephone, there is no dial tone.
Make sure your telephone lines are properly connected. If all your telephone lines are properly connected and there is still no dial tone, contact your telephone company for assistance.
What if I do not see the Windows New Hardware Wizard window after I reboot?
If you do not see this window, then Windows did not detect your Home DSL Modem. You may have previously installed drivers for the USB modem.
To check
for previously installed USB modem drivers:
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If Actiontec Home DSL Modem does not appear in the list, unplug
the USB cable from the back of the modem and plug it back in. If
your modem is still not detected, contact Gateway Client Care.
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- OR -
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If the Actiontec Home DSL Modem appears in the list of network
adapters, contact Gateway Client Care and ask which version of the
software driver should be installed.
How do I use my DSL modem with another modem attached to the same computer?
To use your analog-only V.90 modem, HPNA/V.90 modem, or external HPNA adapter with your DSL modem on the same computer, connect them to the telephone line that supplies standard telephone service throughout your home. In many cases, this is the same telephone line that your DSL service is supplied through and that your DSL modem must be connected directly to. Connect your DSL modem as described below depending on the type of modem you have in your computer and the type of HPNA adapter you are using (if any).
To connect
your DSL modem to an HPNA device or external adapter:
You cannot use a supplied in-line DSL filter with any HPNA modem because it will block the HPNA network connection.
To connect
your DSL modem to an analog-only V.90 modem:
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Connect your telephone line to the Line jack your DSL modem.
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Using a telephone cord, connect the Line jack of the supplied in-line DSL filter to the Phone jack on your DSL modem.
- Connect the analog-only V.90 modem Line jack to the Phone jack on the in-line DSL filter you connected in the previous step.
To connect
your modems on two separate telephone lines:
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Connect your DSL modem to the telephone line that provides DSL service. It is not necessary to use DSL filters because the DSL signal is not on the same telephone line as your other devices.
- Connect your analog-only V.90 modem, HPNA/V.90 modem, or external HPNA adapter to the other telephone line following the standard connection instructions for the modem that is installed in your computer.
How do I connect other non-DSL computers to my home's DSL telephone line?
To connect
an HPNA device or external adapter to a DSL line:
To connect
an analog-only V.90 modem to a DSL line:
What if Windows does not find my device drivers?
If Windows brings up a window telling you that it cannot find your device drivers, try the following:
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If you think you made an error entering the location of the drivers or want to try another location, press the back button and try again. |
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If you believe that you entered the location of the drivers correctly, but you are still unable to locate the drivers, click the Next button. A window opens telling you that Windows did not install a device driver for the modem. |
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You will need to obtain the device drivers from the Actiontec Web site. After getting the drivers, you need to update the drivers. |
To update
the device drivers:
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Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
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Double-click the System icon, then click the Device Manager tab.
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Click the + sign next to Network adapters if the Network adapters list is not already expanded.
- Click Update Driver and follow the on-screen instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Can I share my DSL line with more than one computer in my home?
Can I talk on the telephone while being connected to the Internet?
Can I fax over DSL?
No. You still need to send your faxes over your regular telephone line using a 56K modem or a Fax Machine.
Do I have to pay my telephone company and America Online for DSL service?
No. By signing up with America Online for DSL service, the only DSL bill you will pay is to America Online.
How do I know my modem is functioning properly?
In the lower right hand corner of the task bar there is an Action tec Home DSL Modem System Monitor.
When the bar is Green, your modem is connected and working properly. The arrows blinks Green when accessing a Web site, indicating that it is transmitting and receiving data. The arrows are solid Green when downloading and uploading larger data files.
When the bar is Yellow, your modem is trying to connect to the network. This process normally takes less than 10 seconds, unless there is a problem with the telephone line or the DSL service. If the bar does not turn Green after twenty seconds or if it is constantly yellow, contact America Online.
When the bar is Grey, your modem is disconnected from the Internet. This can happen when the telephone cable is not properly connected to the back of the modem, or the telephone line is not working properly. Try to remove the telephone cable from the back of the modem and reconnect it again. If the bar does not turn Green in fifteen seconds, contact America Online.
When the bar is Red, an error has occurred with the modem or the controlling software. This can be caused by additions of software or hardware to the PC.
To check
the status of your modem:
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Click Start, then select Settings, then Control Panel. The Control Panel window opens.
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Double-click the System icon, then click the Device Manager tab.
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Click the + sign next to Network adapters if the Network adapters list is not already expanded.
- If there are any yellow exclamation marks or red X's next to the Actiontec Home DSL Modem, contact Gateway Client Care.
Where is the dial tone when I am connecting using my Home DSL Modem?
Unlike a V.90 modem you will not hear a dial tone. Please see the Actiontec Home DSL Modem System Monitor described in the previous question for status of your connection.
Getting Help
Before calling Gateway technical support
If you have a technical problem with your computer, follow these recommendations before contacting Gateway technical support:
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Make sure that your computer is connected properly to a grounded AC outlet that is supplying power. If you use a power strip, make sure that it is switched on. |
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If a peripheral such as a keyboard or mouse does not appear to work, make sure that all cables are plugged in securely. |
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If you have recently installed hardware or software, make sure that you have installed it according to the instructions provided with it. If you did not purchase the hardware or software from Gateway, refer to the manufacturer documentation and technical support resources. |
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Consult the troubleshooting chapter of this guide. |
To avoid bodily injury, do not attempt to troubleshoot your computer problem if:
- Power cords or plugs are damaged
- Liquid has been spilled into your computer
- Your computer was dropped
- The cabinet was damaged
Instead, unplug your computer and contact a qualified computer technician.
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Have your client ID, serial number, and order number available, along with a detailed description of your issue, including the exact text of any error messages, and the steps you have taken. |
Verify that the computer is nearby at the time of your call. The technician may have you follow appropriate troubleshooting steps while on the line.
If you need assistance, you can access the following services through your telephone to get answers to your questions:
Resource Service description How to reach Use an automated menu system and your telephone keypad to find answers to common problems.
Talk to a Gateway Client Care representative about a non-tutorial technical support question. (Refer to "Before calling Gateway technical support" before calling.)
Get information about available systems, pricing, orders, billing statements, warranty service, or other non-technical issues.
Regulatory compliance statements
United States users
FCC part 68 (applicable to products fitted with USA modems)
Your modem complies with Part 68 of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) rules. On the computer or modem card is a label that contains the FCC registration number and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for this device. If requested, this information must be provided to the telephone company.
An FCC-compliant telephone line cord with a modular plug is required for use with this device. The modem is designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using a compatible modular jack which is Part 68-compliant. See installation instructions for details.
The Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) is used to determine the number of devices which may be connected to the telephone line. Excessive RENs on a telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most areas, the sum of RENs should not exceed five (5.0). To be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, as determined by the total RENs, contact the local telephone company.
If this device causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. The telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved.
The telephone company may make changes in its facilities, equipment, operations, or procedures that could affect the operation of this equipment. If this happens the telephone company will provide advance notice in order for you to make necessary modifications to maintain uninterrupted service.
This equipment cannot be used on telephone company-provided coin service. Connection to party line service is subject to state tariffs. Contact the state public utility commission or public service commission for information.
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Remain on the line and briefly explain to the dispatcher the reason for the call. |
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Perform such activities in the off-peak hours such as early morning or late evenings. |
The United States Telephone Consumer Protection Act of 1991 makes it unlawful for any person to use a computer or other electronic device to send any message via a telephone fax machine unless such message clearly contains, in a margin at the top or bottom of each transmitted page or on the first page of the transmission, the date and time it is sent, an identification of the business, other entity, or other individual sending the message, and the telephone number of the sending machine or such business, other entity, or individual. Refer to your fax communication software documentation for details on how to comply with the fax-branding requirement.
Canadian users
DOC notice (for products fitted with an IC-compliant modem)
The Industry Canada label identifies certified equipment. This certification means that the equipment meets certain telecommunications network protective, operation, and safety requirements. The Department does not guarantee the equipment will operate to the users' satisfaction.
Before installing this equipment, users should make sure that it is permissible to be connected to the facilities of the local telecommunications company. The equipment must also be installed using an acceptable method of connection. In some cases, the inside wiring associated with a single-line individual service may be extended by means of a certified connector assembly. The customer should be aware that compliance with the above conditions may not prevent degradation of service in some situations.
Repairs to certified equipment should be made by an authorized Canadian maintenance facility designated by the supplier. Any repairs or alterations made by the user to this equipment, or equipment malfunctions, may give the telecommunications company cause to request the user to disconnect the equipment.
Users should make sure for their own protection that the electrical ground connections of the power utility, telephone lines, and internal metallic water pipe system, if present, are connected together. This precaution may be particularly important in rural areas.
To avoid electrical shock or equipment malfunction do not attempt to make electrical ground connections by yourself. Contact the appropriate inspection authority or an electrician, as appropriate.
Notices
All Rights Reserved
This publication is protected by copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of it may be reproduced or transmitted by any means or in any form, without prior consent in writing from Gateway.
The information in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate. However, changes are made periodically. These changes are incorporated in newer publication editions. Gateway may improve and/or change products described in this publication at any time. Due to continuing system improvements, Gateway is not responsible for inaccurate information which may appear in this manual. For the latest product updates, consult the Gateway Web site at www.gateway.com. In no event will Gateway be liable for direct, indirect, special, exemplary, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any defect or omission in this manual, even if advised of the possibility of such damages.
In the interest of continued product development, Gateway reserves the right to make improvements in this manual and the products it describes at any time, without notices or obligation.
Trademark Acknowledgments
1-800-GATEWAY, ActiveCPR, ALR, AnyKey, black-and-white spot design, CrystalScan, Destination, DestiVu, EZ Pad, EZ Point, Field Mouse, Gateway 2000, Gateway Country, gateway.net, Gateway stylized logo, Perfect Scholar, Solo, TelePath, Vivitron, stylized "G" design, and "You've got a friend in the business" slogan are registered trademarks and black-and-white spotted box logo, GATEWAY, Gateway Astro, Gateway@Work, Gateway Connected touch pad, Gateway Connected music player, Gateway Cyber:)Ware, Gateway Education:)Ware, Gateway Flex Case, Gateway Gaming:)Ware, Gateway GoBack, Gateway Gold, Gateway Learning:)Ware, Gateway Magazine, Gateway Micro Server, Gateway Money:)Ware, Gateway Music:)Ware, Gateway Networking Solutions, Gateway Online Network (O.N.) solution, Gateway Photo:)Ware, Gateway Professional PCs, Gateway Profile, Gateway Solo, green stylized GATEWAY, green stylized Gateway logo, Gateway Teacher:)Ware, Gateway Video:)Ware, HelpSpot, InforManager, Just click it!, Learn@Gateway, Kids BackPack, SERVE-TO-ORDER, Server Watchdog, SpotShop, Spotshop.com, and Your:)Ware are trademarks of Gateway, Inc. Intel, Intel Inside logo, and Pentium are registered trademarks and MMX is a trademark of Intel Corporation. Microsoft, MS, MS-DOS, and Windows are trademarks or registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other product names mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only, and may be the trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies.