Troubleshooting an Internal PCI Modem That Will Not Dial After installing a new internal PCI modem, the system will not dial out. Which issue most likely explains the failure to seize the line?

Introduction / Context:
Analog dial-up modems have two RJ-11 jacks: LINE (wall) and PHONE (handset). If cabled incorrectly, the modem cannot seize the telephone line to dial, resulting in no dial tone or failed calls.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Internal PCI modem installed and detected by the OS.
• Two jacks present: LINE and PHONE.
• Dial-out attempts fail to produce a call or dial tone.

Concept / Approach:

The wall telephone line must be connected to the LINE jack so the modem can directly access the PSTN. The PHONE jack is a pass-through for an optional handset and does not supply the modem with an incoming line when used alone. Plugging the wall cable into PHONE prevents line seizure and dialing.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

After moving the cable to LINE, the modem should detect dial tone and proceed with dialing. Modem logs or terminal sessions will show successful initialization and call progress.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Port speed set too high: Usually auto-negotiated and rarely prevents dialing. Not set up in Control Panel: May affect driver configuration, but mis-cabling is the classic no-dial culprit. LINE-IN wording: If interpreted as the correct LINE jack, that would be proper, not a fault. None of the above: Incorrect because the PHONE jack misconnection is a well-known cause.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing the two RJ-11 ports; using faulty phone cords; forgetting to disable call waiting codes that can interrupt dialing.

Final Answer:

The phone line from the wall is plugged into the PHONE port on the modem card