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Selecting PC Communications Packages
Issue 2 November 1996
2-21
Selecting PC Communications
Packages
The purpose of PC communications software is to allow your PC to operate as
an asynchronous voice-data communications terminal. Of the many software
packages available, all perform essentially the same functions, but often in
significantly different ways.
If you do not already have a PC communications package, consult with an
experienced user for advice on selecting software to suit your voice-data
communications needs. The following, though not required, are a few helpful
features that you may wish to look for in the software you select:
■ Local mode. Also called terminal mode, dumb terminal mode, or chat
mode, this feature allows you to issue AT commands to the 8400B Plus
Data Module to configure its options.
■ Dialing directory. This feature allows you to store several frequently
called numbers, often along with configuration of the data options
needed for completing the connection.
■ Auto-dialer software. This feature allows you to automate the process
of dialing a voice call without touching the telephone. The following three
basic types of auto-dialer software are available:
— Phone Management supports call log and note taking
— DOS Utilities typically supports auto-dial capabilities
— Personal Information Managers (PIM) supports automated
calendars, databases, time lines, and pert charts
■ Predefined data option profiles. Some programs include completely
defined data option profiles (also called configuration profiles) for popular
modems. If available, select the option profile for the Hayes
Smartmodem 2400.
■ Command files. These files, also called script files, allow you to define a
group of commands that may be executed for automatically logging into
specific remote devices.