A cable modem can either be located next to the computer or at a central cable splitter or network distribution location. This cable configuration generally has a longer coaxial drop cable and a shorter CAT-5 network cable. This configuration also allows the customer to easily check the modem status lights. This generally reduces the necessary coaxial cable but increases the length of the CAT-5 network cable. If the customer has existing network cable, configuring the modem at the distribution location can decrease installation time.
Network cable is usually easier to install in and around rooms and furnishings than drop cable.
Because of the very low frequencies of the data signal carried, it is not nearly as affected by ingress problems as RF frequencies carried on the drop cable. However, network cable can have interference problems if routed too closely to electrically noisy devices such as florescent lights, power transformers, motors and so forth. Next month s installment will continue with considerations for connecting a telephone line to a cable modem using a phone return. All rights reserved.