Wed Mar 15 17:42:24 EST 2006

Slow Cable Modem Update


Well, Service Electric came to my house today and took a good look at my cable connection. The thing is, they really didn't tell me much of anything that I didn't already know. I already knew that the signal was strong, and that the signal to noise ratio was good. But the sent out their techs to check the signal at my modem as well as at the pole. Never mind that, logically, if the signal at the modem is in excellent shape that something upstream by about 100ft has nearly a zero percent chance of being any different. Well, it could be better I guess, but I highly doubt the signal would suddenly jump up in quality on it's way from the pole to my house.

That left me with two other options. One, that their network is bogged down and the need to upgrade and, two, that someone or more than one someones are hogging the bandwidth. As it turns out, from the techs comments, it seems that the area I've chosen to live in has seen a sudden spike in cable modem customers. On top of that they also said that they have been collecting readings every place they have a speed problem and nearly all of them in the area have been the result of the cable growth in the area.

So, at the very least, I know things on my end are working. Now, I either need to find a different service in my area, or wait for them to upgrade their equipment. From what Service Electric has told me the blanket answer is, "We are working on it." As far as alternative service goes Speakeasy is out, I just called them and all I can get is an expensive T1. Leaving me with RCN which, still, only has one-way cable. Supposedly they are doing some serious upgrading with a goal to have 80% of the Lehigh Valley covered for two-way service by the end of spring, but we shall see on that.

Hopefully, Service Electric will just upgrade their stuff.

Posted by Brian | Permalink | Categories: Computers and Technology, Personal | |