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    Do modems matter?

    Discussion in 'Networking and Wireless' started by Zeecav, Jun 2, 2009.

  1. Zeecav

    Zeecav Notebook Enthusiast

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    My wireless router/modem took a dive a couple of days ago and I got a new wireless N router, but still need to buy a cable modem. The electronic stores carry a whole wall of routers, hubs, bridges and so on, but only 2 or 3 different cable modems. Some around $80 and some $20 all claiming similar stats. Does it matter which I buy?

    I know most people just take the modem their service provider rents out to them, but when buying your own, what should I look for? Are they all the same? The few I find all appear the same. Thanks for any help.
     
    Zeecav, Jun 2, 2009
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  2. jackluo923

    jackluo923 Notebook Virtuoso

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    Modem does matter. Though, picle something that's supports DOCIS 3 capable for future proofing.

    E.g. Motorola Surfboard SB5101
     
    jackluo923, Jun 2, 2009
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  3. Zeecav

    Zeecav Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks for the help. I haven't had to look into buying a modem for sometime as my old one has been a champ for a few years. I forgot about the whole docsis thing and have learned that my area is set up for docsis 3 in the next year by comcast. The modem you mentioned is not docsis 3 by the way. Its next model number up, the SB6120 is and unfortunately its $100. Don't know if I should bother with it just yet.
     
    Zeecav, Jun 4, 2009
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  4. Shyster1

    Shyster1 Notebook Nobel Laureate

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    I'd also check with your ISP to see if they have any restrictions or ... "issues" about their service that would tend to favor one over the other.
     
    Shyster1, Jun 4, 2009
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  5. gerryf19

    gerryf19 I am the walrus

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    If you are going to get DOCSIS 3, then you will need a DOCSIS 3 modem, otherwise the highest throughput you will get is about 40mbps (as opposed to 171 for DOCSIS 4 channel or 343 mbps for 8 channel).

    Now, is Comcast going to give you that much bandwidth? No. Comcast caps bandwitdh, so these numbers are only theoretical. Odds are, even if you have DOCSIS 3, you will max out at 20 mbps so it won't matter what you get).

    Not knowing what Comcast's plans are it is difficult to say what you should be considering.
     
    gerryf19, Jun 5, 2009
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  6. Zeecav

    Zeecav Notebook Enthusiast

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    Good point gerrf19. I forgot about the bandwidth caps. Not to mention I only subscribe to their 15mbs service. Their 30mbs service is an extra $20 a month and not worth it. So I guess docsis 2 will do it for now.

    I was thinking of this modem as it gets good reviews and is only $60 at newegg and $80 at bestbuy. Although I can get a refurbished model for $35... http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16825120001
     
    Zeecav, Jun 7, 2009
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