Would buying a cable modem fix this?

[SALvation]

I have a cable modem from Comcast in MI and have had terrible service lately. My modem drops connection almost once an hour. Sometimes it comes right back, sometimes I have to reset it a dozen times. I have a COM21 modem that I lease from me but I have heard that modem blows. If I bought a linksys would I have less problems? Is there any advantage besides lowering my monthly payment $5/month if I buy a cable modem?

 

[rutchtkim]

i would buy one, never heard of that brand. some cable modems are better than others, just like some video card are better than some others, etc etc etc...

 

[DarkManX]

see if any of ur neighboors have the service to make sure its not just you. or check the www.dslreports.com msg board and see what people in your area are saying.

 

[SALvation]

Yea but the latest video card crushes a card from 2 years ago. I want to know what the benefits are to buying a brand name like linksys? Better speed, connection?

 

[LordThing]

I would definately question the modem, but also your Db strength from the Cable. You can loose connection if you are barely within the boarder of allowed "noise" on the line. Could be modem, could be signal strength, could be wiring...its a hard one to track down.

As for saving money...look at the long term cost vs savings. You can end up with a nice cable modem (Motorola, RCA, Dlink, Linksys) that you can use pretty much any loacation and end up having it pay for itself after a year or so of service. Up to you. But if the modem breaks, its your problem.

 

[Don Vito Corleone]

I have a Com21 modem and it is fine. My provider does not charge more for using their modem so I have never been inclined to buy one. It is certainly possible that a name-brand modem would be better, but I have found my Com21 to be every bit as good as the fancier Surfboard I formerly used.

The symptoms you mention sound more like a weak signal than a bad modem. I had occasional, annoying problems with this when I lived in Oklahoma (using an expensive Surfboard modem), due to poor signal strength.

 

[SALvation]

I have a feeling it is a weak signal also. Is there anything I can do or am I screwed? I already made sure I don't have a splitter on the line and I'm even using a Monster cable to connect it to the line. Anything else I can do?

 

[Don Vito Corleone]

You may have a splitter outside your house that can be taken out - this was true in my case, and removing it was enough to get a decent signal. Otherwise you may be SOL.

 

[Moonbeam]

Buying one won't make a bit of difference. You would have also to install it to see an benefit.

 

[LordThing]

Well, your only option is to get them to come out and test your line/jack. If it checks out then there is an issue with your wire from the wall to the modem or the modem itself. If its barely there or questionable, ask about them doing a new drop from the pole to your room. If you rent...this might be a problem