I too, was conned by computer sales people when I got my new computer two years ago. My HSP modem seemed to work great on the internet (regular 44K connections) and PC-Anywhere connections to host computers. Then I started doing the unthinkable ... I wanted to become a "host" with PC-Anywhere. The modem does not recognize any incoming calls. I took it back from hence it came, they re-installed some software and I was told that it works. I get home - no dice. There are no settings for it to allow / not allow incoming calls. Great.
Then, last week, the CMOS battery died - all of the settings were lost. I took it to the same computer guys and they put a new battery in and restored my settings. Now, the modem will not emit sound on my speaker when dialling. The computer guys are questioning how my speakers are connected - they are hooked up right, and they properly work with every piece of hardware except the modem. After all, I install these computers for a living ...
I thought I'd check out the foums for ideas, and after seeing scores of "HSP Modems are crap" messages, the solution hit me. I went out and bought a "regular" 56K modem for $50.00 and life is good again.
Why put yourself through the agony? You can buy modems at reasonable prices now - save yourself the mental breakdown and trash the HSP.