i recently received a Dell for X-mas, and after reinstalling my DSL service onto the new machine, my phone line hisses. the DSL is fine, just the phone hiss. there is a filter on the phone, but no go. the phone is downstairs, and the machine up. any help? thanks much LSD makes you crazy.

Phone your ISP's support line, a CSR (Customer Service Representative) will be able to walk you through all of the most commonest problems relating to ADSL or cable connections. They will have the correct setup procedures for your router/modem. If you have any other problems they will help you troubleshoot it... Boycott James Hardie Products.

I have the same problem with a modem I'm using to work with XP Fax monitor. Modem on or off, as soon as it connects to the filter piece it creates a steady hum on the phone line.

I've sometimes found that a different brand of filter can help this sort of thing. DerekW

The ones I have came free with the kit from my provider. I don't know who makes them but can find out later. Any suggestions on a bettter quality brand that work better?

Re #3 No, it's just that I had problems with analogue phones when using the provided filters (in UK). I just went to a shop and bought what was on the shelf. This cured the problems. It's something of a long shot, so borrowing one to try might be a good idea before spending your money. DerekW

one: thanks to all those who chipped in. two: i fixed the hiss, but it's a bit technical. i'll explain the best i can...on the filter are two slots, one for the phone, the other for the computer. if you remove the phone line from the computer jack, and place it in the phone jack, the hiss goes away. i hope thi wasn't too difficult for everyone. :) thanks again... LSD makes you crazy.