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Posted by Eric on March 13, 2005, 4:31 pm
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>
> > Hi,
> >
> > I've done some googles for sites that review and compare cable modems,
but
> > have come up (for the most part) empty handed.
> > Found some good info scattered around Broadbandreport's forums, but no
> > comparisons.
> >
> > Anyway, trying to decide between two modems for cable internet + VOIP
> > service.
> >
> > (These two modems are my only available choices with the provider.)
> >
> > + Motorola Surfboard SBV4200
> > + Scientific-Atlanta Webstar DPX2203
> >
> > I was able to locate the datasheets for both modems and they both appear
> > to
> > be very similiar in specifications. I was also able to find the full
user
> > manual for the Motorola Surfboard SBV4200, but not the SA Webstar
DPX2203.
> > (The Motorola Surfboard SBV4200 appears to be available as a consumer
> > retail
> > product, while the SA Webstar DPX2003 appears to only be available for
> > cable
> > providers.)
> >
> > The Motorola Surfboard SBV4200 appears to have been released in 2002,
> > while
> > the Scientific-Atlanta Webstar DPX2203 was released just last year.
> > Datasheets lists the specs as being practically identifical, however.
> > Same
> > DOCSIS versions, frequency ranges, operating levels, VOIP protocols,
DTMF
> > characteristics, ect. Both support 2-line VOIP and can networked for
data
> > through either ethernet or USB. (I'll be using ethernet going to a
> > router.)
> >
> > Basically, it looks like it probably just comes down to brand (Motorola
> > versus SA), so I was looking for some feedback between the two brands --
> > i.e., is one more prone to instability, heating issues, ect?
> >
> > Thanks!
> > -Eric
>
> I could be waay off here but motorola has been making cable modems for a
> very long time.. at least for my area..
>
> I started out with a motorola cybersurfer cable modem.. tried a few
> different ones. (linksys and rca) and came right back to motorola.
> I would stick with the motorola one.. i just have better luck with them..
> Ive never used a s.a. cable modem and neither has anybody else that i
> know... That doesn't stick well with me..
>
> my opinion: Stick with the champ, it's been around a lot longer for cable
> modems.. the motorola..
>
Thanks. I'm not too familiar with Scientific-Atlanta hardware either.
I've actually been using the Motorola SBV4200 for a couple days now, but was
offered the SA DPX2203. Couldn't see hardly any difference between the two
in the specs sheet and just threw this out in hopes that perhaps someone had
experience with the two and could make a "real world" comparison. The
Motorola seems to functioning solidly for the last few days, so probably
will just stick with it. Seeing downstreams topping off around 4.82 Mbs
(out of 5 Mbs), which is on par with the older Toshiba 1100U that it
replaced. (Replacing the Toshiba with the Motorola modem was to take
advantage of VOIP.) Status of the Motorola SBV4200 seems to be holding
fairly well with clean logs and signal levels within tolerance.
Downstream: Power Level -4 dBmV, SNR 37 dB
Upstream: Power Level 41 dBmV
One feature that caught my eye with the SA DPX2203 was the ability to use a
battery storage pack with it. Haven't googled that subject yet, but was
thinking that would be a nice feature if such battery packs were available
as seperate consumer retail purchases. If my understanding is correct, if
power should be lost then such a battery pack would allow continued
telephone use until either the modem's battery power is depleted and/or the
cable company's battery power on the poles are depleted. (?)
Cheers,
-Eric
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