Cable Modem
With the advent of wireless Internet and other advancements in computer technology, cable modems have nearly become but a memory. For a lot of Internet subscribers, a modem comes with their Internet Service Provider (ISP), so it’s not always a necessity to know what goes into a cable modem. However, for those who still need to find the best cable modem that meets their needs, there are certainly some frontrunners. A cable modem is a device that serves as a receiver for your high speed Internet signals. A coaxial cable, used in cable Internet situations, offers more bandwidth than the telephone. This is known as broadband. Cable modems can move at the speed of 1.5 Mbps, leaving dial-up and older models of modems in the dust. You will need an Ethernet cable (that connects the computer to the modem), Ethernet card (that goes into your hard drive) and a coaxial cable (that connects the cable Internet signal to the modem). The price of cable Internet versus dial-up is fairly comparable.
Those purchasing a new cable modem could get overwhelmed with the multiplicity of options out there. To make it worse, not everyone can agree what makes a best cable modem. Quite often, cable modem difficulties lie in the software you use or your ISP, making the issue of judging a cable modem even more difficult. The goal is to have a solid cable modem with uninterrupted Internet access. Consider reliability, speed, warranty and its compatibility with your operating system. To surf the Internet at top speeds, you will need a fast connection that allows you limitless upload and download capabilities. Once again, this modem must be compatible with your ISP and operating system.
Here are a few models to consider when purchasing a high-speed cable modem:
- The Motorola Surfboard SB5120 is a strongly recommended device, that can connect up to 100 times faster than 28.8k modems. It is Ethernet and USB compatible and can be used with Windows, 95, 98, 200, XP and Microsoft OS operating systems. A stand-by button allows the modem to rest when it is not in use. Also in the Motorola family, the the Motorola Surfboard SB5100 Cable Modem is also another popular choice, with speed up to 30 Mbps. A built-in diagnostic tool helps with troubleshooting, and the device is compatible with Ethernet and USB as well as Windows and Map operating systems. These two Motorola models by far are the most popular models out there, according to the Internet research out there.
- But Motorola isn’t the only brand out there that can make cable modems. The Linksys Wireless-G Cable Modem is known for its easy albeit lengthy assembly and should be able to work with any ISP provider. The Linksys Wireless-G Cable Modem also serves as a router, allowing you to hook it up to other computers. There are also built in security features such as firewall, although it isn’t recommended to rely on the modem as your sole form of protection. Go ahead and download a more general firewall protection for your operating system, as if you weren’t relying on the firewall on your cable modem at all. Encryption is included so that your next-door neighbors won’t mooch off of your Internet connection. Parental locks are included to keep children offline when they’re not being supervised; they will have to enter a password to gain access. The Linksys Wireless-G Cable Modem comes with a three-year warranty.
- The Actiontec USB-Ethernet DSL Modem with Routing Capabilities is a good alternative to using your ISP’s provided modem. This device is considered a decent device that comes with firewall protection. It hooks up two PCs at once, if necessary, being both compatible with Ethernet and USB. The computers, however, will need to be in close proximity to each other. Purchase a network hub to connect more computers to the Actiontec USB-Ethernet DSL Modem. There are no wireless capabilities with the Actiontec USB-Ethernet DSL Modem. The Actiontec USB-Ethernet DSL Modem comes with a 1-year warranty.
- The D-Link DCM-202 cable modem is a simple device, but it gets the job done. This device has all the basic features of its DSL cable modem counterparts, although the USB device only works with the more recent models of the Windows operating systems (98 or later). The D-Link DCM-202 cable modem comes with a one-year warranty. Make sure before purchasing your device that it meets your needs especially if you do not have an Ethernet card and are relying on USB connectability.
When purchasing a cable modem, be sure to keep its original packaging, receipt, warranty and any other documentation that you can. You never know when your modem may fail you, and you may qualify for a replacement, warranty, refund and other things out there in place for failed devices. Store your modem in a dry, level place where it’s not going to get kicked over. If you have problems with your modem, completely shut down your computer, remove the connection cord for at least 20 seconds, plug it back in and reboot the computer before calling for tech support. Oftentimes, a simple rebooting will solve the problem. This is known as a hard reboot.
When the hard reboot doesn’t work, it’s time to call the ISB. Have that phone number handy so that at any time you can give them a call. Sometimes severe weather events will prevent your Internet from working, and you may find that when you call, a voice mail message informs you that they are aware of the problem and are addressing it. Before calling, make sure you know your operating system, and ant pertinent information the customer service associate will need to access your account. This may include name, address, password or date of birth. If a severe weather event has occurred and all services are wiped out, the best course of action is sit tight and keep checking your service. In most cases, the Internet ill come back on pretty quickly. Do not repeatedly call and pressure customer service to get your Internet back up. This will not help speed up the service.
