Again, this is not a shortcoming if you realize that the PC becomes an active communication device in your home rather than just a beige box that sits in the corner. Zoltrix, Aztech and PhoneBlaster modems apparently also work very well, but it is the ModemBlaster, due to it's ability to be internally connected with the sound board, that HAL recommends. I'm told that the next version will have TAPI support which will also eliminate the need for that internal connection of the voice modem and the sound board. In order to deliver voice commands to your computer via the telephone from anywhere in your home, the PC must be the first component in-line with your outside phone service. There is a very long list of compatible controllers in the help file and on the HAL website.
Software installation is straight forward and presented no problems.
Just follow the instructions and provide a few bits of information to get going. HAL needs to know your communication port, X-10 control device, IR control device etc. HAL2000 is now running and will sit in the background while you use other PC programs. This is when the fun begins. Without any training whatsoever, the darn thing will tell you the time and date if you ask.