If you want to test your modem and whether it dials or not - use the windows phone dialler in Start > Programs > Accessories > Communications > Phone dialler. Ring your mobile and see if it rings. If it does then your PC and modem is fine. If not then it is likely to be a problem stated above regarding Freeserve.
If you dont have the phone dialler, you can install it in the Windows components part of Add/Remove software in control panel.
Best of luck
Maz
