strange dns problem on login to isp

["Peter O. Fedichev" <Peter.Fedichev@uibk.ac.at>]

Hello,

I have installed Debian linux both on my laptop and the desktop. I am
using the both of the computers to login to  my university Computer
Center which serves as an isp for its employees. I am using one and the
same external modem and have the following problem:

I am using wvdial and if I use it on my laptop without the pcmcia
network card inserted I have Internet working fine.

In the same time if the network card is inside or I am using my desktop,

pppd starts up but the dns server does not work. If I use plain IP
addresses, then the connection (ftp, telnet etc) works fine.

do any of you have a key?

thanks in advance