Connecting to the Victoria Telecommunity Network with a Macintosh

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 the Victoria Telecommunity Network. For more detailed instructions, keep reading.

What you need:

A Macintosh running System 6 or System 7
A communications program
A modem
An available telephone line

There are many commercial software packages.

Modems are available from any computer retailer. Good quality modems can be bought for less than $100.

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

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.
Connect the serial cable to your Macintosh's modem port-a plug on the back labeled with a telephone icon.
Plug the other end of the cable into your modem.
Plug the modem's power cord into power outlet, and turn the modem on.
Now, start your Macintosh.

For more detailed instructions, refer to the manual that came with your modem. If you have a PowerBook, you may have an internal modem (one installed inside your computer) or an external one. Macintosh AV users may use the software-based Apple Express modem. If you have this kind of modem, follow the instructions that came with it.

Installing your software

You can use any communications software, including the communications modules in multi-function software such as Microsoft Works.

Follow the program's instructions to install the software on your computer's hard disk drive. If you are using a system with only floppy drives, 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 Macintosh.

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. 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.

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.

Once you are connected

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