driver installs and works correctly except it doesn't dial

I am using ubuntu karmic (9.10) with kernel 2.6.31-15-generic. I
downloaded and installed the appropriate hsfmodem package
(hsfmodem_7.80.02.05full_k2.6.31_15_generic_ubuntu_i386.deb.zip). For it
to work I also had to install alsa-driver-linuxant_1.0.20.3_all.deb but
now it seems to be working ok. 
hsfconfig runs correctly, I can issue commands to the modem through a
terminal program (kermit) and receive responses all without problems. 
The problem is the modem doesn't seem to dial properly. If I listen into
the line as it attempts to dial, I can hear it pickup but never dials,
just sits there after some short noises as if it dialed really really
fast. 
I would really like to get this fixed. I will send you any data you need
to diagnose this issue, you will just have to guide me trough it.

thanks a lot
Carlos