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Hayes Smartmodem

A 300 bits per second modem from 1981 that took commands over the serial line, a method still used in modems today.

Hayes Microcomputer Products introduced the Smartmodem in 1981. Earlier modems needed a person to flip switches or place a phone call by hand. The Smartmodem accepted typed commands through the computer's serial port instead.

The original model ran at 300 bits per second. Its command language, called the AT command set, let software dial, answer and hang up by itself.

Why it matters

Almost all modems that followed used a version of the Hayes AT command set. Hayes stayed a major brand through the 1980s. Cheap, fast rivals such as the SupraFAXModem 14400 in 1992, and then ADSL and cable modems, pushed the company into bankruptcy protection. It was liquidated in 1999.

Key facts

  • Introduced in 1981.
  • Speed of 300 bits per second.
  • Took typed AT commands through the serial port.
  • Its command set is still used in modems.
  • Hayes was liquidated in 1999.

Sources

  1. Wikipedia, "Hayes Microcomputer Products", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hayes_Microcomputer_Products, accessed October 14, 2026.
  2. Wikipedia, "Hayes AT command set", en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hayes_AT_command_set, accessed October 14, 2026.