Need a DOCSIS 3.0 modem recommendation

[TemjinGold]

So I am building a house and unfortunately, the development only has Comcast. I've had a docsis 2.0 Motorola all these years with my 15mbps plan but I might move up to the 25mbps plan. As this should need a 3.0 modem to fully reap the benefits, I'm wondering which modem would you guys recommend that is compatible with Comcast. My brother told me to stay away from the motorola 6121 because he had all sorts of problem with one but other than that, I really don't know.

 

[Fardringle]

Since equipment and infrastructure can be very different in different locations, I'd suggest calling your local Comcast support number and ask them which modems are compatible with the network in your area. Then look for reviews and opinions on the options that they give you.

 

[ImDonly1]

Here is a list of modems comcast has approved for use. You can look at their D3 modems.
The SB6120/6121 are the most popular I would say. Keep in mind some of the modems on the list are not for retail sale and can only be rented from comcast. Like the cisco dpc3000 modems, you can only rent them from comcast and can't buy them anywhere. A google search shows that they are selling the dpc3008 in retail now though. Others are digital voice and internet, you can't usually buy those either or activate them.

http://mydeviceinfo.comcast.net/

I would still go with the motorola SB6121. If you are on a budget, I think the ubee or zoom modems are cheaper, but not sure on their quality.

Most modems can bond 4 downstream and 4 upstream channels that gives 160mbs download speed (theoretical), there are newer modems that can bond 8 downstream channels giving 320mbps downstream. One of these modems is the dpc3008 (not sure if the dpc3000 does 8 channels). However, I don't think comcast has even enabled 8 channel bonding yet, and you are only on a 25mbps plan, so it doesn't really matter to you.

 

[StarvinMarvin22]

I purchased a 6120 for use with comcast.. it's been great.

 

[TemjinGold]

Okay, thanks guys!

 

[IHateMyJob2004]

Wow, I had the same exact question and this thread was just sitting there to read. Thanks for the comments fellas! And especially the comcast link that I would have never found!

On a further note. I am a Cable modem newbie. I'm actually subscribing next week after years of DSL use. So I don't really know the top level infrastructure.

Do I connect my cable modem to my network and go to the IP address for it in my web browser and from there configure it with whatever data Comcast supplies (login/password/etc).

Also, what kind of info is Comcast going to supply me to get the modem working? Do I need a router much how like my DSL was set up? Or does the Cable modem act as the router?

FWIW: I would like to get a cable modem/router/wireless n hub that has atleast one ethernet port.

 

[ImDonly1]

Comcast usually charges a $30 install fee and I don't think there is a way around it. The tech will come, hook up the cable outside and run a cable inside the house if you don't already have one. He will install the modem and get it working and all.

You will probably have to install a router yourself. But that is usually just as easy as running a cable from the modem to the WAN port of the router.


If the tech does not install the modem for you, you just basically connect the modem. Then, call Comcast to give them the MAC address of the modem. Then it works. There is no username/password to type into the modem. Authentication is done by the MAC address, either the MAC is in their system for internet or not.

 

[AlucardX]

I just got this a few days ago and no issues so far with Comcast, Zoom Telephonics 5341J. Supports 8 channel bonding, ipv6, etc.

It was about $72 from Walmart.com not including shipping. I try to stay away from Walmart, but their return policy is 90days and you can return in store so it seemed like a good idea in case i had issues.