Why do you need a dial-up modem, specifically, because it really isn't worth buying a dial-up modem these days (IMO), when modem routers are so cheap?
I'd suggest buying yourself a Linksys or a Netgear.  Both makes are popular, and relatively cheap ;)

Just make sure you buy the right kind - i.e. if it's an ADSL connection you have, buy an ADSL router (it should mention ADSL specifically in the title, else it could be a cable broadband router) ;)
And since it's likely you'll want to connect to it via the laptop, get a wireless model.
You can still connect your PC to it via an ethernet cable, if you so wish ;)

Dell sells a USB modem that was an option when you bought your 1730 for around $20. It works real well.

Need dialup to support portability in locations that I can not get wireless or where it is unreliable and dialup is the only option.  Hard to believe that circumstances exist that necessitate this. but....

I don't know which part of the world you're from, so I can only suggest you visit your favourite websites, and see if they offer any Linksys or Netgear USB modems - or maybe a Belkin if it's a decent price?
If they don't, and you're unsure about the reputation of the ones you're considering, post links to them - or at least mention the specific make/model, and somebody on the forums may know about them ;)

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@jet757f wrote:
Dell sells a USB modem that was an option when you bought your 1730 for around $20. It works real well.

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Sorry, I don't recall that a dialup 56k USB modem was an option when I ordered earlier the other week, or I would have optioned it in ( I just checked the available options again...).

 

Just did a search on the website then to find that Dell advises there are no modems available.

 

Let me know if I'm missing something here, please.

 

Cheers ;)

 

USB modem for XPS 1730:

 

http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/products/Networking_Communication/productdetail.aspx?c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=313-5362

Thanks for that!

 

For expediency's sake, I purchased a Netcomm Rave III modem yesterday (I couldn't wait the 7-10 days quoted by Dell for their product).  I will probably get the Dell modem a bit later and leave one set up permanently on the docking station.

 

The Rave works ok, but I note that I seem to be getting kicked offline more frequently than I can previously recall.

 

Not sure if this is related to the modem.  In any case. I'll persist for a bit longer yet before getting too steamed about it.

 

Cheers and thanks to all!

 

Mick:smileyindifferent:

Yes that is the modem that Dell sells although the price is double what you would pay if you had done if while ordering. The modem works very well. I even used it with an Apple MacBook Pro for awhile.

 

If you are under your 21 day return period you may still be able to get the modem. Call them and tell them you are going to return your notebook and re-order with the modem. See how they react..........