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(More customer reviews)Recently I started looking for a modem to replace my aging Motorola SB4100. Based on the good reviews, I decided to buy the Motorola SB5120. Unfortunately, I found the SB5120 extremely hard to find (Amazon did not have it in stock at the time). The SB5101 however was in stock everywhere for about $50. Out of frustration, I contacted Motorola to ask about availability and the significant differences between the 5120 and the 5101. The Motorola technician that I talked to told me that the reason the 5120 is scarce is that it is no longer manufactured. He also explained that the difference between the two modems is the internal chipset. The 5120 is a TI and the 5101 is a Broadcom. He also said that there is no difference in performance; both are capable of 38 Mbps downstream and 30 Mbps upstream (limited by the cable company's tiers and number of users on the net).
Finally, I asked him which he preferred (since I could still track down a 5120 if I was willing to pay enough...). He stated unequivocally that he preferred the SB5101 and the Broadcom chipset. He also stated that the speed on the modems is artificially capped by the cable companies so that they can sell tiers of service. This modem, he said, has a lot of available overhead so as the broadband companies compete and raise their level of service, this modem can handle it. Finally, he told me that there is a new DOCSIS standard (3.0) recently approved; the 5101 modem is upgradeable to DOCSIS 3.0 should the cable company choose to do so.
That said, I followed his recommendation and bought a 5101.
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Motorola SB5120 Surfboard Cable Modem Docsis 1.1 and 2.0 Certified USBIt's time to get more out of what the Internet offers. Motorola SURFboard Cable Modem links your computer to Cable Internet service (subscription required) for faster, more efficient useability. With Ethernet and USB connectivity, installation couldn't be simpler. A convenient stand-by button provides hassle-free security by disengaging from the PC without disconnecting from the cable network. Troubleshooting is a breeze too, thanks to front panel status indicator LEDs and an online diagnostics page.No telephone line neededSlim vertical design saves desk spaceUser-friendly online diagnostics pageSupports standard Internet software USB or Ethernet connectivity simplifies installation, enhances versatilitySupports up to 32 users when roted on a network (ethernet hub or router required) Specially designed architecture allows for future upgradesCapable of downloading up to 100 times faster than traditional 28.8k analog phone modems (speed may vary) Enhanced with TurboDOX Bandwidth Optimization Software -can further boost download speeds by up to 20 timesCableLabs DOCSIS 1.1 and 2.0 CertifiedWhen connected to a DOCSIS 2.0 cable network, capable of up to 30 Mbps upstream capacity (actual speeds may vary due to cable, use, and carrier conditions) Real-time gaming accessTop-mounted stand-by switch disconnects the USB and Ethernet connection to the computer without disconnecting the cable modem from the RF network Ethernet connection compatible with Windows 95/98SE/2000/NT/Me/XP; Macintosh OS 8 or higher; Unix; and Linux USB connection compatible with Windows 98SE/2000/NT/Me/XPPlease check with your local cable provider for DOCSIS high speed data service compatibility Motorola 2-Year Limited Warranty
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