Reddit reviews Motorola SB6180 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem in Non-Retail Packaging (Brown Box)
We found 3 Reddit comments about Motorola SB6180 DOCSIS 3.0 Cable Modem in Non-Retail Packaging (Brown Box). Here are the top ones, ranked by their Reddit score.
10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet port to connect with router or computerDOCSIS 3.0 certified, capable of up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds up to 120 Mbps based on your Cable provider serviceCompatible with major Cable Internet Providers. Contact your ISP to verify compatibility.Compatible with Windows, Macintosh and UNIX computersGood for streaming Audio / Video and gaming on multiple devices at a time
>Edit: This https://www.amazon.com/Motorola-SB6180-DOCSIS-Non-Retail-Packaging/dp/B00723PZ2G is the modem I have from my ISP.
You'll want to replace that since its only 8 channel downstream. It wont support a 350mbps connection. Ideally you should have 16 channel or more. If you pay a rental fee, you'll save money by owning your own modem anyway.
>Edit2: Updated the router firmware. It's not 300Mbits, but it is hovering around 150 instead of 30.
At least you know gigabit connectivity is (technically) working now since Fast Ethernet is limited to 100.
I was wrong about the Linksys E3000 though. Though it supports gigabit ethernet connectivity, the internal processor is too slow to reach full speed and it can only actually route at about 200mbps.
So to reach your full 350mbps speed, you'll need to replace both modem and router unfortunately.
Generally I recommend against Combo Devices. While they are convinent and may save a bit of space/power, they don't deliver the same content quality as an aftermarket router will.
Separate devices will certainly work better than any combo device and with the wide avilibility out there I don't see why more people go to get their own than they do.
But, when you get your own device there are several things to consider.
Your device, while it is provided by TWC, is covered for replacement with few restrictions. The modems can be replaced with a service call (generally no charge to the customer) and can be handled efficiently by a well trained tech.
If you buy your own, there is no guarantee it will work any "better" or "worse" than an existing modem you have installed, but getting a newer device may give better lifespan than your existing modem.
TWC, as advertised on their website, modem fees are between $3.95 and $5.99 depending on where you live. Over the course of a year, this is between $48-$120/year. Definitely worth getting your own device, even if you buy a new one every 2 years. (also, most store bought modems come with a 1 year warranty anyway and you can get an extended warranty for usually an extra $5-$10)
Recommended devices: Regardless where you live:
AVOID THIS MODEM
Netgear CM31T This is a blacklisted device from several large MSOs because of its firmware issues and compabaility. It will "connect" but you will be plagued with problems.
The Surfboard 6180 is the best bang for your buck for a modem. http://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00723PZ2G/ref=sr_1_1_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1453780861&sr=8-1&keywords=sb6180&condition=used
They will install a modem/router when they come, and insist on it. After they leave, you can install your own modem/router setup (activate over the phone) and return their equipment at a Mediacom Office.