CompuServe Messages

Some fax machines send out "CalliNG" or CNG signals while waiting for a response from the "called" number. Most voice/fax switches will recognize this signal and route to the fax device. If the "calling" fax machine does not emit CNG signals then the fax switch must have some type of fallback procedure to route to the fax. This is usually done with a time interval or a touch tone code from the "calling" device. Modems however, muck up the procedure since they are very much like fax devices and not different enough to be sensed by a voice/fax/modem switch, which to my knowledge is the only type of switch that will help you – ie., I am not aware of any voice/modem switches. I use an ASAP TF 555 switch with a voice line and Telephone Answering device or TAD, a Fax machine, and a computer modem connected through it. If someone calls my number and they are using a fax machine with CNG signals, then the call will be routed to the fax. If the fax machine does not emit these signals, then my TAD will pick up the line and give a message outlining how to access the fax machine with touch tone, or to leave a message. I also have the system configured to connect to the fax machine after the TAD has done its thing so the caller can just hang on in order to send a fax. The switch will only recognize a "calling" modem if the modem was dialed in REVERSE mode, ie, it was dialed in ANSWER mode instead of ORIGINATE mode. This is outlined in your modem docs and involves appending an 'R' to the end of your dial string, eg, "ATDT 555-1212R". Then the switch will automatically route to the computer when sensing this call since the "calling" modem, not the "called" modem will start emiting tones. The only kicker to this is that the "called" modem, in this case your BBS must be able to ANSWER in REVERSE mode also, ie., pick up the phone in ORIGINATE mode instead of the default ANSWER mode. At this time this parameter can only be changed on the HAYES Ultra and Optima modems. The other option would be to have your callers append the touch [ MORE ]