Updating or upgrading to a version of Mac OS X from 10.3.7 to 10.4.1 might cause certain "dash" type internal modems supplied by Apple to stop working. Internet Connect may give you the message "Could not open the communications device."
You can use the System Profiler application to determine if your computer has a "Dash" modem.- From the Apple menu choose About This Mac.
- In the resulting window, click More Info.
- In System Profiler, click Modems in the list on the left side of the window.
- If System Profiler shows the "Modem Model" as any version with "Dash" in the name, then you should continue with the troubleshooting steps in this article.
Solution for Mac OS X 10.3 Panther
If you're having this issue with Panther, you should contact AppleCare for assistance.
Solution for Mac OS X 10.4 "Tiger"
If you're having this issue with Tiger, update to 10.4.2 or later to resolve the issue. Since your modem isn't working, getting the update will take a little extra effort. Try downloading the standalone update to the computer you're reading this on, then burning it onto a disc to insert in the affected computer. If you don't have a burner, you could set up file sharing. You could also visit the Genius Bar at an Apple retail store, or transfer the file using your iPod as a disk. If you can easily transport your computer, taking it to a location with AirPort or Ethernet access to the Internet would also be a solution.