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What is my modem
Another common problem is that many people have modems built in when they buy an OEM PC
(from the likes of Time, Tiny, Gateway etc etc). Often these are unbranded modems with
little or no indication of who built the modem.
This causes problems when trying to find updated drivers/firmware, as you don't know where
to find the updates.
So...if you absolutely don't know who made your modem, try one of the following 2 sites :-
OFTEL Register
Most modems available in the UK will have a small sticker on them somewhere stating that
they are BABT approved equipment. The wording of the BABT approval is usually :-
APPROVED for connection to telecommunication systems specified in the instructions for use
subject to the conditions set out in them.
Under this wording will be a series of references. e.g NS/1357/23/M/602076.
The last 6 digits are the BABT approval number (in my example 602076).
Copy this approval number and visit this web site :-
http://www.babt.com/InformationServices/Oftregsearch.htm
Here you can enter the BABT approval number (in the option "Approval Number")
and submit the search.
You will then be shown the details of the original manufacturer and (with luck) the exact
make/model of your modem.
FCC ID
This is the US equivalent of the BABT approval number (Federal Communications Commission).
If your modem does not have a BABT approval sticker or number, then it is very likely you
will find an FCC ID on it somewhere. The wording of an FCC ID sticker is usually :-
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions (1) this device may not cause harmful interference (2) this device must
accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired
operation.
Under this wording will be a series of references e.g FCC ID : AW23765
(NB - You DO NOT want the "FCC REG #" as that is a different reference
completely).
The first 3 characters are the "Grantee code" (i.e. the manufacturer), in my
example "AW2"
The next characters (up to 14) are the "Equipment Product Code", in my example
"3765".
For more complicated FCC ID's, check here for an explanation of how the ID is broken down.
Take the both references and visit this web site :-
http://www.fcc.gov/oet/fccid/
Here you can enter the Grantee code and/or the Product code and submit a search of the FCC
database.
If a match is found then you will be provided with details of the original manufacturer.
Unfortunately the results are not as conclusive as the results from the BABT database, but
at least you now have somewhere to start looking for your new drivers/firmware.
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