USB modem problems - anyone help?

Hey guys,

I've got Broadband which runs through an Alcatel USB modem. Ever since I installed it I've experienced other hardware problems some of which have caused my computer to crash (running XP Pro). I have 4 USB ports. The modem on one, a webcam (no problems) and a Universal card reader (for digi camera cards etc).

My Microsoft Sidewinder gamepad will not work with the modem connected. As soon as I disconnect the modem then the gamepad works fine. (Not too worried as I don't play games too often). I tried a gameport to USB adaptor but that didn't work.

If I plug the card reader in, then the computer locks up. If I plug it in without the modem attached, it works fine.

I've downloaded the latest drivers for the modem but that hasn't cured the problem. I e-mailed Alcatel but they've not replied.

When XP crashes and I reboot, it tells me that Windows has recovered from a serious error. I report the error to Microsoft and occasionally I'll get told it is a driver problem but it's not type specific.

I have a back-up HDD which at present has no info on it. And this recently stopped being "seen" by Windows (opening Explorer caused the computer to crash). This could just be coincidence though. For the time being I've disconnected this drive.

I've also experienced problems when I try to record onto CD-R's - which I've never had before I installed the modem.

It feels like my whole system sucks. A clean install hasn't helped.

Any advice would be most welcome and I'll dish out some dosh to the needy if you help me with some of the above!

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Could you be more specific as to what model the Alcatel modem is? All the more help could be benificial to solving the problems.

it's a Speedtouch one

There's no model number.

http://www.speedtouchdsl.com/produsb.htm

http://www.quake3world.com/ubb/Forum2/HTML/027331.html

I'm wondering if it could be something to do with the fact it's USB powered?

I have to give up the computer for the night. Talk with you later.

Any luck?

Originally posted by Zandro
Any luck?

No, not yet.

Try looking through this FAQ while I search through more pages concerning the modem. http://www.farina1.com/usbfaq.htm

Okay, after viewing several sources, I can safely assume the Alcatel USB modem is a power hog, and will not leave enough power to run the rest of the devices attached to the system. So, you have two options: Buy a new power supply for the computer, or get a new modem, preferrably internal.

Thanks for both of those bits of info - I picked up a useful website from your link. I think you're right, it is something to do with the power supply.

Thanks Zan - runs to feature store.

I have a Motherboard that has the VIA chipset. It appears that the Modem doesn't like this particular chipset. There's a few things I can try e.g. a powered USB hub, changing some BIOS settings before I have to splash out for an internal modem or a new Motherboard.

I had bband usb & it would always lock up . so I traded it for an ethernet connection and it worked right away. That was with 98 on it , now that I have xp I can't get anything working, but I share your frustrations .