Modem lights indicate the activity between the modem and computer’s hard drive. The interaction is called handshaking, made possible by the UART microchip. Different lights indicate different states, allowing users to monitor the connection. A reset can fix dropped connections.
Modem lights are simply the lights found on external modems. Depending on whether the lights are dark, on and solid, or flashing, each modem light will provide an indication of the activity currently taking place between the modem and the connected computer’s hard drive. The current state of the modem lights helps the end user know if a connection has been established, if the connection is active, or if the connection has been dropped for some reason.
The activity of the modem lights is usually referred to as handshaking. Essentially, when the modem is in use, the device interacts with the computer. The modem receives input from the computer and, in turn, also delivers an influx of data to the hard drive. Both devices acknowledge receipt of the data received and commands issued by the other. In this sense, the handshake is not unlike a gesture between two individuals who have agreed on an exchange or a plan of action.
This interaction or handshake indicated by modem lights is made possible by the presence of the universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter located on the computer’s hard drive. The UART microchip is what actually allows the computer to talk to the modem and process the data it receives from the modem. Without the UART present, it is impossible to establish a relationship with an external modem.
There are several types of modem lights found on the standard external modem. The AA, or Auto Answer, light indicates that the modem is busy and ready to receive an incoming call. The CD, or carrier detector light, recognizes that the computer and modem have established a connection and that you can now communicate back and forth. The HS, or high-speed light, will come on if the modem is ready to transfer data at a relatively fast rate. Finally, the MR, or modem ready, light lets the end user know that the modem is ready for operation.
The series of modem indicators present on a standard external modem helps the end user to be able to monitor the current status of the connection at any time. In the event that the connection between the computer and the modem drops, there is normally nothing more than a quick reset of the modem and using a key, switch, or button on the modem to start the connection re-establishment process.
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