What do cable modem channels mean?

Cable modems have upstream and downstream channels. These channels are how a modem processes data from your Internet service provider (ISP). The upstream channels and downstream channels are how you are able to upload and download content via Internet or WiFi connections.

What does 16×4 modem channels mean?

Originally, DOCSIS used one channel for downloading data and one channel for uploads. For example, 8×4 modems—that is, modems with eight downstream channels and four upstream channels—support a theoretical maximum of 343Mbps. A 16×4 modem generally tops out at around 680Mbps for downloads.

What is a 32 channel modem?

A 32×8 modem has 32 downstream channels and 8 upstream channels, for theoretical speeds of 1216 Mbit/s downstream and 216 Mbit/s upstream. This tier of modem’s maximum performance is around 60\% of the theoretical maximum speeds.

Do modem channels matter?

Benefits of More (or Faster) Channels The higher the DOCSIS standard tier will also determine how many download and upload channels your cable modem will support. Learn all about DOCSIS here. The more channels your cable modem supports, the more data your computer or device can quickly send and receive.

Does Channel bonding matter?

when you don’t have enough lanes. That’s why modems evolved to have more than one lane. And that’s accomplished through a technology called channel bonding. Channel bonding combines multiple channels—or lanes—to increase the amount of traffic that a modem’s highway can comfortably support.

Is 8×4 channel bonding good?

A great cable modem should support at least eight downstream channels and four upstream (8×4), which gives you plenty of overhead if you want to upgrade to faster service now (or if your ISP gives you faster service for free later).

Do I need more modem channels?

Just remember that all other things being equal, higher numbers are better. Any new modem you buy should have at least 16 downstream channels; anything less is probably either old or underpowered.

How many upstream channels should I have?

For some networks, the power limits for 3 to 4 channels are 35 to 51 dBmV. Ideal levels are approximately 40 to 50 dBmV for single channels, 37 to 48 dBmV each for 2 to 4 channels….What do your readings mean (Upstream)?

Upstream Channels Locked	Power Limits (dBmV)
1 2 to 4	35 to 57 35 to 54

How many channels should my modem have?

Any new modem you buy should have at least 16 downstream channels; anything less is probably either old or underpowered.

What are good signal levels for a cable modem?

Ideal levels are approximately 40 to 50 dBmV for single channels, 37 to 48 dBmV each for 2 to 4 channels. The Signal to Noise Ratios should also all be within three dB of each other. However, for power level -15 to -6 dBmV the SNR should be 33 dB or higher and for -6 to +15 dBmV the SNR should be 30 dB or higher.