> 169.254.xxx.xxx with a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0
An address in that range is auto assigned by windows when it can't find a DHCP server. This is by design so you can plug two machines into a hub/switch/crossover cable and they will get ip's which are nonroutable but allow them to communicate.
Do you have to register your cards MAC address with your cable modem company?
Bill