If I have a problem getting a connection via the modem, the
second time it times out or gets interrupted, the modem
enters the "disconnecting" state, and hangs there. Logging out,
pulling the phone line, changing connections, trying to turn off
the modem, even killing some processes doesn't budge it. It
takes at least 10 minutes before it returns to normal.

Is there anyway to force this without restarting the machine?
A fix?

Mark