Downstream Power too Low (-12) Cable Modems and Wiring Issues

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It seems like my modem never finds a cable modem signal! (Modem won't sync)
It looks like the head end doesn't hear my modem. (Modem won't sync)
My modem is being rejected by the head end! (Modem won't sync)
My connection randomly drops in and out. What do I do?
Downstream Power too Low (-12)
Upstream Power is Too High (>55)
How can I check the signal levels on my modem?
Generic Upstream Power Problems

Downstream Power too Low (-12)

Make sure to read my section on splitters and configure your house accordingly.

There are some cases in which a house is just really huge and a ton of signal is lost before it reaches the outlet. Usually, in a case like this, an amplifier or an active splitter will do the trick.

If your cable line is currently RG59, you should REALLY replace it with RG6.

got feedback?

Adding an amplifier to an outlet with a cable modem is often not recommended. The cable co. I work for considers it unacceptable. It's best to make sure the cable modem outlet is fed off the first split. A two-way splitter -- one leg feeding the modem outlet, the other leg feeding signal to the splitter for the TV outlets -- does the job nicely. If an amplifier is needed to boost the signal to the TV outlets, it can be placed between the first and second splitter.

2007-10-07 10:21:21 (defiant )

by Raydr
last modified: 2002-03-18 22:02:11

All FAQs » Cable Modems and Wiring Issues » 5.3 Modem Troubleshooting

Downstream Power too Low (-12)