Hi there Ted,

Read this advisement from microsoft:

When you start your Windows XP-based computer or start a program on your computer, the modem may attempt to automatically dial a connection to your Internet service provider (ISP).

This behavior can occur if any of the following conditions are true:

• The autodial feature is enabled. Autodial is enabled by default in Windows XP.
• The program that you start automatically checks for updated components or Web pages.
• A program that dials your ISP is located in the Startup folder or on the registry's Run key.
• A registry entry is set to dial.

To resolve this issue, use one or more of the following methods.

more here:  http://support.microsoft.com/kb/316530