I installed a new modem then when I booted it froze while loading linux into memory.
1. I do not have a lspci file on my system.
2. 2.4.20-8
3. I am using a desktop, AMD Duron processor.
4. PCI cards only
5. It freezes while the linux image is loading, no messages.

The modem is a ITU-T V.92 PCI modem from Encore. I ordered the modem because online they specified that it was linux compatible. When I spoke with the vendor he said that the modem is made with an Intel chip so it is compatible with Linux. He suggested that it might be an interrupt conflict.

Since the system does not even complete the loading of the linux image how can I even know if there is a conflict? Would a conflict cause the system to freeze during the boot process before it even looks for new devices? How can I verify if the modem is compatible and change the interrupt if that may be the problem?

Thanks

Some bioses will let you edit the interrupts. However, you kernel should be compiled with interrupt sharing which pretty much eliminates this.

Google for IRQ to learn more about interrupts.

The intel chip is probably i536ep or i537ep chipset - these are only nominally compatable: i.e. they don't work for most people. (Though there is a patch). If the driver-boot script is preventing the kernel from loading then you may be facing a reinstall.

If you can remove the driver (and that bootscript) - possibly using a rescue CD - then you could try the scanModem script from the linmodem project to get advice how to set it up properly.

Remove the modem, get rid of it. Though I know some folk are using them, I consider them junk. (Just my prejudice from years of trying to get them to work.) Vendors can always show you one going in a linux box but cannot say why you are having trouble. Avoid! They either go or they don't.

Use a full hardware modem - or an AC'97 controller modem. (Look in linmodem project for supported devices. Smartlink modems are good if you must have internal.)