Connecting to the Victoria Telecommunity Network with a Commodore 64/128

What you need:

A Commodore 64, C-64, 64-C, C-64-C, SX-64, 128, 128D, C-128.
A communications program
A modem
An available telephone line

There are many shareware software packages.

300 and 1200 bps modems are available for use in the expansion port. Modems faster than 2400 bps can be utilized through the User port via a SwiftLink cartridge from CMD. The SL-232 allows modems up to 38,400 bps and can be bought for $80 in Canada.

You can use your current telephone line to connect to Victoria Telecommunity Network.

If you're in a hurry...

If you already know how to use your modem and communications software, here are the communications settings for connecting to VTN. For more detailed instructions, keep reading.

Speed: 300 to 14,000 baud, depending on the speed of your modem and if you're using the SwiftLink cartridge.
Data bits: 8
Stop bits: 1
Parity: none
Terminal emulation: VT 100
Phone number: 250-727-3335

To log on, follow the steps listed under the heading, "Once you are connected."

Step-by-step connection guide

Turn off your computer and modem.
Connect the telephone cord that came with your modem to a telephone wall jack.
Plug your modem (1660, 1670) into the expansion port.
Now, start your Commodore.

For more detailed instructions, refer to the manual that came with your modem.

Installing your software

You can use any communications software available for the Commodore. Make a backup copy of the communications software disk. Put the original in a safe place, and use the copy. If you have difficulty copying files or installing the software, consult the manuals that came with your Commodore.

How to connect

You will need to enter some information in your communications program so that you can connect to VTN. Your communications software may refer to this information as Communications Settings or Terminal Settings.

Here are the recommended settings for Victoria Telecommunity Network.

Almost all communications programs allow you to save this information so you do not have to enter it again.

Now give your software the command to dial, using the settings you saved in the previous step.

If you get a busy signal, try again later.

When you have connected to VTN you will be asked for some important information before you can begin your session.

If you do not get a "Connect" message or a busy signal, there is a problem with your modem or with the communications settings in your software. Check your connections, make sure that the settings match those listed above, and try again.