Modem Should Work

[KC_Masterpiece]

I am trying to love linux. Parts of it remind me of my DOS days, happily tinkering with utilities and what not. Unfortunately it always feels like I am banging my head against a wall. Ok here is the problem: Installed Fedora Core 4 as a dual boot with no problems. After configuring the modem (external US Robotics sportster model 0648 56k v90) the OS detects it fine. When it comes time to activate it, the modem dials and connects. A very short flash on the data sent and data recieved light, then it hangs up the modem. If you wait it just cycles again. Do I have to let it cycle 7 times? Can anyone pull some strange config file out of their ass that will fix this? I have tried whatever stupid thing I can think of, but it does the same thing every time. This modem worked perfectly with Damn Small Linux on the same account. I will say that my account name is 'c&mrice'. Do you think the & is causing a problem? (worked with DSL).
I hope someone has an idea. I don't know why I don't just delete the whole partition. It is such a hassle, but for some reason I just like the idea of Linux too much to give up now.
Thanks.

[w5set]

Command line only? or do you use a Gnome/KDE desktop?
Using KDE--start--Internet--KPPP and set it up there.
Using Gnome I ain't gonna even log off and bring Gnome up to see where the setup is--sorry.
Another thing--I don't store config files in my rear--not sorry about that for sure--hi--hi.
Seems to NOT log on properly and just hangs back up after the "whoops"
if you are limited to command line (which I hope not)--
tail /var/log/messages
right after trying the dialup and failing should give the latest "errors" if any.
or you can look at the same message log with one of the file managers/browsers.