[mythtv-users] Pixelation/Bad Recordings HDHR Prime -- I am at my wits end

[Gary Buhrmaster]

On Wed, Aug 28, 2013 at 8:06 AM, Captain Hook <captainhookzero at gmail.com> wrote:
.....
> .... I will
> also say that I've noticed a speed reduction in my internet at times which I
> have also attributed to the neighbor (none of this is based on any facts of
> course).

As individuals have expanded their Internet services, it is not unusual
for Comcast (replace Comcast with the name of almost all the
cable providers)  to be slow in certain areas.  Whether it is the new
neighbors, or simply others on your node, or cable plant issues
is often impossible for you to determine.  While Comcast will split
nodes when needed (and possible), if you are still running a DOCSIS
2.0 modem that you own yourself, consider moving to a DOCSIS 3.0
model(*).  With the ability to "bond" downstream and upstream
channels you are likely to find that the speed is more consistent.

btw, the cable modem itself may provide useful diagnostic info on
the status page and the logs.  Go to http://192.168.100.1/ and
see what your signal is, and your SNR.  If the signal is outside
of the range of (about) -9 to +9dBmV (best is about 0dBmV), or
the SNR is below (about) 30 (there is no best max, but typically
you should see around 34-38), you are typically doing to see
issues (those numbers are better than the specs require, but
because "stuff happens", most MSOs try to stay within those
specs).  There is also a log page on most cable modems.  While
it is usual to see a couple of messages such as "unknown options",
or an occasional "timeout", if you see lots of those messages, or
bursts of them, you may have a problem with either the modem
or the signal.  A lot more information regarding cable modems
can be found on other forums.

Gary

(*) Comcast, at least in some areas, is now handing out DOCSIS
3.0 modems for leased modems rather than the older models.
So, you can always walk into the office and ask for an exchange
and you get a newer modem by simply waiting in the interminable
waiting line at the office.