Problem using older modem over modern day phone line

"By default, the speaker gets turned off, but you will hear the answer tone first. There is a command (in most modems) that lets you choose to have the speaker always on (or always off).

As to your problem, the other end has to answer. Just call from the phone and see if it does. (You probably did this, but didn't mention it.)

Following ernie's link... ATM2 will leave the speaker on. ATM1 is the default I described above."

"Oh my god, I can't believe I remember this, but...

The way you tell that your modem is working is by typing AT into the terminal and if you get an ""OK"" back, then it is. ATH will also ensure that the modem is hung up before attempting to dial (which was one of the things that needed to be done back in the day). There are also some diagnostic AT codes that will be helpful, like ATI0.

There's a more complete list here.

Also, I sincerely hope that your friend doesn't have a ""dry"" ADSL loop with VOIP, because modems work irregularly at best on VOIP. :)"