I need a reccomendation for a cable modem

[ahenkel]

Looking to get cable internet and I'd like to purchase a cable modem instead of leasing one. If a few people could recommend one that would be great.

 

[ImDonly1]

Looking to get cable internet and I'd like to purchase a cable modem instead of leasing one. If a few people could recommend one that would be great.

What provider do you have and what speeds are you going to get?

If less than 20Mbps download then Motorola SB5101 or SB5120. Can be bought on eBay for $25-30.

If over 20Mbps download and your area has DOCSIS 3.0 then Motorola SB6120. I think there is also a newer revision to the 6120 called the SB6121. Probably cost $70-80.

Check to see which is supported by your provider. If Comcast, then http://mydeviceinfo.comcast.net

 

[master7045]

I'd like to purchase my own as well so I don't have to keep paying my $7/mo to Charter. What makes one cable modem better than the other? My internet speed is 12/1 and I use a wireless router as well WRT54G running DD-WRT

 

[ImDonly1]

I'd like to purchase my own as well so I don't have to keep paying my $7/mo to Charter. What makes one cable modem better than the other? My internet speed is 12/1 and I use a wireless router as well WRT54G running DD-WRT

The two I listed above, one supports DOCSIS 2.0 the other DOCSIS 3.0. DOCSIS 3.0 uses channel bonding and can switch channels if one is too congested I think. DOCSIS 3.0 is capable of higher speeds (up to 150mbps or so if using 4 bonded channels or 300mbps if using 8 bonded channels). DOCSIS 2.0 can do maybe 30mbps. You are using 12/1 so you won't see a benefit on speed except for the speed congestion thing I said above.

Otherwise, just brand or RAM on the modem. Motorola is just a popular brand and usually used by Comcast. They also used Scientific Atlantic modems (now part of cisco) or RCA ones, but I don't think they use them as much as Motorola ones. Linksys also sells modems in retail stores so they are used.

I would just buy the cheapest of a reliable brand. Main thing is DOCSIS 2.0 or 3.0. If you want a DOCSIS 3.0 your only choice is a Motorola or Ubee. Other DOCSIS 3.0 modems are not sold to the public and only rented. Just make sure the modem you buy is supported by your company.

Here is a list of non-compliant modems
http://www.myaccount.charter.com/customers/support.aspx?supportarticleid=2623
The modems I listed above will work. The SB5101E is listed as unsupported, but SB5100 isn't so it should work. There are a few variations between those models. There is a SB5100, 5100E, 5100N. They are almost the same though.