This must be a problem with the modem not finding the port to which it is assigned. And, from what you say, that port is there and serviceable as far as Device Manager is concerned. I assume there are no "Devices" in Device Manager with yellow exclamation marks.
XP doesn't deal in "real" ports only virtual ports. These can then be assigned to actual hardware such as a serial port, USB, PCI etc.
What's in the BIOS regarding ports?
Oh, and I'd still try the "repair" option if offered. I've never done a WinXP over WinXP but in Win2K it does keep all your data and settings that you'd lose by formatting.
Last edited by fobotcso; 26th Jun 2003 at 18:12.