Using Your Modem
3-14
Issue 2 May 1995
An Overview of File Transfers
and Fax Operation
The purpose of this section is to make you aware of the basic
concepts involved when using your modem to transfer and
receive files and fax messages. For information on how to use
your communication or fax software, refer to the
documentation provided with your software package.
File Transfers
Two terms essential to file transfers are download and upload.
A download occurs when you want to receive a file
from a host
site (such as a BBS or another computer). An upload occurs
when you want to send a file
to a host site. However, before you
can do this, you must:
G
Have your modem and PC set up for modem operation
before executing your communications software.
G
Have communications software that is operating and in
terminal mode.
G
Have your modem online with another modem.
G
Determine whether you want to upload or download files.
G
Verify that the character format (7 data bits, odd parity,
1 stop bit; 8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit; and so on) is
the same for both the local and remote modems.
G
Select a file transfer protocol (ZMODEM, YMODEM,
XMODEM, Kermit, and so on) that is compatible with
your communications software and remote system.
Some protocols require simultaneous actions at both
ends of the link to start a transfer, while others permit
initiation of the transfer from one side only.
NOTE:
ZMODEM protocol is recommended for its speed and
reliability, if your software supports this protocol.
