1. Try connecting to KE6I-1 (I believe other SSID's work, but I know this one does.) 2. Check the 'callsigns heard' list here on the net to see if my system actually heard yours. This list should be current as of every minute or so. 3. Get or borrow a frequency counter. These are pretty reasonable lately, and, imo, are a good investment for any ham radio station. Transmit, and check your frequency. It's really pretty easy if you have the counter. 4. Use a crystal controlled packet radio. These guys are very cheap, and work good and for the most part are no hassle. 5. For 9600 connects and soundcard modems, listen to the output on the speakers with to make sure that something is coming out first. The output volume is sensitive -- experiment with the PC volume controls to get the right output level. 6. Ask me, Cathryn, for help. I'm happy to help anybody trying to connect.