Avaya 8400B Plus User Manual

Selecting PC Communications Packages

Issue 2   November 1996

The purpose of PC communications software is to allow your PC to operate as 
an asynchronous voice-data communications terminal. Of the many software 
packages available, all perform essentially the same functions, but often in 
significantly different ways. 

If you do not already have a PC communications package, consult with an 
experienced user for advice on selecting software to suit your voice-data 
communications needs. The following, though not required, are a few helpful 
features that you may wish to look for in the software you select:

■

Local mode. Also called terminal mode, dumb terminal mode, or chat 
mode, this feature allows you to issue 

AT

 commands to the 8400B Plus 

Data Module to configure its options.

■

Dialing directory. This feature allows you to store several frequently 
called numbers, often along with configuration of the data options 
needed for completing the connection.

■

Auto-dialer software. This feature allows you to automate the process 
of dialing a voice call without touching the telephone. The following three 
basic types of auto-dialer software are available: 

— Phone Management supports call log and note taking 

— DOS Utilities typically supports auto-dial capabilities 

— Personal Information Managers (PIM) supports automated 

calendars, databases, time lines, and pert charts

■

Predefined data option profiles. Some programs include completely 
defined data option profiles (also called configuration profiles) for popular 
modems. If available, select the option profile for the Hayes 
Smartmodem 2400.

■

Command files. These files, also called script files, allow you to define a 
group of commands that may be executed for automatically logging into 
specific remote devices.