MultiTech has discontinued the only USB modem that works with VSI-FAX, but the working MT5634ZBA-USB model is still available elsewhere. We suggest starting with an eBay search, which has worked well for a number of customers seeking replacement modems in a pinch. All of the typical eBay caveats apply (i.e. purchase from a reputable seller, make sure there’s a return policy, verify the warranty status, etc.).
Please note that while the model numbers are similar, this is not the same modem as the newer MT5634ZBA-USB-V92 model, which is not certified for use with VSI-FAX on Linux.
To use the Digi PortServer, you’ll need to install the appropriate RealPort drivers for your kernel.
Additionally, any time the kernel is upgraded, you’ll need to recompile and reinstall the drivers. As such, it is important to plan your kernel upgrades in advance and perform testing after the first boot using a new kernel.
Screencast
Installing or Upgrading the Digi RealPort Drivers
If the drivers are already installed, uninstall the existing drivers:
Example (change the IP address and number of ports to match your device):
dgrp_cfg_node init D 192.168.100.111 1
Starting the Digi Service
When the drivers have been installed, and the ports have been configured, start the Digi service to activate the serial ports:
service dgrp_daemon restart
Adding Digi Ports to VSI-FAX
If you are configuring VSI-FAX for the first time, or if you’re adding a new fax modem to your environment, you’ll need to make VSI-FAX aware of the new modem’s serial port location. For example, to create a new modem called modem1 at the serial port location /dev/ttyD00:
vfxadmin device -a -d -v /dev/ttyD00 modem1
After adding the modem to VSI-FAX, you will also need to add the modem to the default fax “pool” or class. To add the new modem1 to the default fax “pool” named fax1: