Err Msg: The Selected COM Port Is Either Not Supported...

 Last reviewed: May 11, 1995
Article ID: Q125979
The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows operating system versions 3.1, 3.11
  • Microsoft Windows for Workgroups versions 3.1, 3.11

SYMPTOMS

When you try to use Terminal, you receive the following error message: 

   The selected COM port is either not supported or is being used by
   another device. Select another port.
You can use the modem in MS-DOS, but you cannot use it with Terminal and you cannot use it at an MS-DOS prompt in Windows.

CAUSE

This problem can occur if you use third-party communications programs. If a third-party communications program adds itself to the LOAD= line of the WIN.INI file, or to the Startup program group, it can take control of the COM port and not release the port for any other application to use.

RESOLUTION

Remove the third-party communications program from the LOAD= line of the WIN.INI file or from the Startup program group. Also check the AUTOEXEC.BAT file to see if the communications program is being started automatically. If so, remove the program from the AUTOEXEC.BAT file.

These steps will free the COM port for other applications to use. When you want to use the third-party communications program, start it manually.

KBCategory: kb3rdparty
KBSubcategory: win31 wfw wfwg wincomm
Additional reference words: 3.11 3.10

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Last reviewed: May 11, 1995
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