It's called "retraining". The modem cannot sustain data flow at the current connect speed, and it "retrains" to a lower speed (sometimes higher if possible). PCI winmodems (soft modems) are notorious for using up CPU cycles, and when retraining, will use even more.
There are a few ways around this, but at some expense.
1.) Buy more RAM. Usually helps, cannot hurt (within reason).
2.) Buy a "hard" modem, that is one that has all the processing and data pump chips on board, and does NOT rely on the CPU to do any work. All external serial modems, most USB modems, and the VERY rare internal PCI are hard modems. If you need a list, or want any suggestions on what to get, just ask.
3.) Call the phone company. Get them to check the lines, all the way from the box on the house to their central office. Remember, they only guarantee a voice-grade line (around 14.4kbps), so they may not help, but again, it can't hurt. Any further checking (inside the house) is your responsibility, and they may charge for it.
4.) Check for updated drivers for the modem. Usually helps. Cheers,
Jim
