What Is A Cable Modem?
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Cable Modem, A "Cable Modem" is a device that allows high-speed access to the Internet via a cable TV (CATV) network. The modem will typically have two connections, one to the coax cable and the other to plug in to a Cat-5 RJ-45 computer network card. The Internet, uses cable modems to allow people access to the Internet at a fraction of the time it takes traditional telephone modems for two reasons: broadband makes the connection a hundred times faster, and allows for the service to be "always on," meaning you get the information you want, when you want it. Unlike telephone modems, cable internet allows consumers to keep their telephone lines free. As anyone who has ever surfed the Net using a phone line can tell you, connections are painfully slow, especially when downloading photographs, graphics or video images. The cable modem technology provides an "always on" feature for individuals to access the Internet rapidly, while its broadband network means users can move around quickly, eliminating the frustration of today's Internet user experience. And, as a result, information providers will be able to offer better quality content as more consumers gain higher-speed access to the internet. Cable modems can be either internal or external to the computer. In some cases, the cable modem can be part of a set-top cable box, requiring that only a keyboard and mouse be added for Internet access. In fact, if your cable system has upgraded to digital cable, the new set-top box the cable company provides will be capable of connecting to the Internet, whether or not you receive Internet access through your CATV connection. Regardless of their outward appearance, all cable modems contain certain key components:
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