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Optimum's network currently runs on DOCSIS 3.0. DOCSIS 3.0 allows channel bonding, or using more than one frequency channel simultaneously to deliver faster speeds. The number of channels that a modem supports is denoted by two numbers separated with an "x". For example, a 16x4 modem means it supports 16 channels downstream and 4 channels upstream.

Optimum currently officially supports/rents out the following modems, all of which are DOCSIS 3.0 voice modems supporting Optimum Voice telephone service:

•Arris TM1602 - 16x4 modem (software upgradeable to 24x8 by Optimum)
•Arris TM822 - 8x4 modem
•Arris TM804 - 8x4 modem
•Motorola/Arris SBV6220 - 4x4 modem
•Cisco DPQ3212 - 8x4 modem
•Cisco DPQ3925 - 8x4 modem

The Arris TM1602 is the newest modem available and is becoming Optimum's standard issue, although some older models are still in circulation.

If you are subscribing to Optimum Online (OOL) only and wish to purchase your own modem (see also »Optimum Online FAQ »Can I buy my own modem?), Optimum makes the TM1602 and TM804 available for sale from the Arris and Optimum co-branded store. However, any modem manufactured to the DOCSIS 3.0 standard should theoretically be compatible on the Optimum network. An 8x4 modem should be the minimum considered for purchase; Optimum's current standard-issue TM1602 is a 16x4 unit (that is software upgradeable to 24x8). DOCSIS 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 modems should not be used on Optimum's network; while a DOCSIS 3.0 4x4 modem is theoretically compatible with Optimum's current offerings, it is now outdated and should not be purchased if it can be avoided.

If you are subscribing to Optimum Voice (OV) in addition to OOL, your choices in modems are pretty much limited to the Arris options available for rent or purchase from Optimum, as voice modems are not readily available on the market.
[submitted by hobbeslover See Profile]


Feedback received on this FAQ entry:
  • The Cisco DPQ3925 is for Static IP Only. They Also just added Arris TM1672 for Static IP Only Too. The Arris 1672 is a 16X4 Modem.

    2018-12-24 15:42:47 (TheLeak3r See Profile)



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by Irish Shark See Profile edited by Lex Luthor See Profile
last modified: 2016-06-09 22:51:56