Frequently the issue is caused by "misinstalling" the modem. The modem
has the Com port but Windows doesn't recognize it. Uninstall the modem
(remove all instances) and then shutdown the PC and remove it. Then
startup the PC. Now read the instructions for installing the modem and
follow them exactly.

Chicory wrote:

> My modem reports an error that another application is using the COM port 3
> even when no other applications are running. I looked at the device manager
> to switch the modem to a differnt COM port but no COM or LPT ports are listed
> at all.
> Some other applications that use COM ports such as MS ActiveSyncwork
> correctly despite display an error message that COM3 is not availabel at this
> time.
>
> Why can't I find COM ports in device manager? Any suggestions on how to fix
> this?