How To Hook Up A Cable Modem
Many people receive more than just their television feed from their cable TV provider. Many homes in the United States receive their high-speed internet right through the cable they already have, saving them money when the package is bundled together.
To utilize this cable internet, you have to employ the services of a cable modem, which can be a tricky thing to set up if you haven't done it before. Just follow these easy steps on how to hook up a cable modem and you'll be surfing the web in no time.
1. Equipment – Make sure you have all the proper equipment for setting up your cable modem. You'll need the modem itself, the modem's power cord, a cable wire, an Ethernet cable and possibly a cable splitter.
2. Run the Cable – Attach one end of the cable wire to the wall outlet and run the cable to the final resting place of your cable modem. If this same cable will be used for your TV, split it by using a cable splitter and run one cable to your cable box or TV and the other to your cable modem. The cable screws into the back of the modem just like it would into the back of your TV or cable box.
3. Power On – Connect the Ethernet cable and power cord to the back of the cable modem and make sure the power cord is plugged in. The Ethernet cable will attach to what looks like a slightly wider version of a phone jack in the back of the modem.
4. Complete the Connection – Run the Ethernet cable to either your computer or to the back of a router. If you're using a router, it will take a few extra set-up steps to get on the internet (Click here to learn How to hook up a router). If not, proceed to step five.
5. Start Surfin' – Double click your internet browser of choice and enjoy.
Obviously, this is simply how the physical hardware should be connected in order for the modem to function properly. Sometimes a bad cable outlet in one room, even though the TV reception is fine, can trip you up. In order to concentrate the signal, your provider may install a line filter that will restrict the internet to only one room. If this is the case, you'll have to contact your provider and have them change it.
That's just one instance where the above setup would not be particularly effective. But the majority of the time, if you follow the above setup instructions, you'll be on the internet in no time.
