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Telephone Service Frequently Asked Questions
Telephone Service Frequently Asked Questions
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions regarding cable modem
telephone service. For issues regarding cable modem Internet service, see How Do I
Troubleshoot My Internet Service Installation? (on page 34)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What if I don't subscribe to telephone service from my cable operator, can I
still use the cable modem to make and receive phone calls?
A. No. Telephone service is enabled for each telephone port on the cable modem by
the cable telephony service provider. Contact your cable telephony service provider
to get telephone service through the cable modem.
Q. How do I arrange for installation?
A. Professional installation from your cable telephony service provider may be
provided. A professional installer can connect the telephone service to your existing
telephone wiring in your home or install new wiring if needed. Professional
installation also ensures proper cable connection to the modem and to your PC, and
ensures proper configuration of all hardware and software settings. Contact your
cable telephony service provider for more information about installation.
Q. Can I use my existing phone number with the cable modem?
A. Telephone numbers are portable in some areas. Contact your telephone service
provider for more information about using an existing telephone number.
Q. Do I automatically receive high-speed Internet service with the cable modem?
A. Your cable modem may be used to provide telephone service, high-speed
Internet service, or both services. Your cable service provider enables Internet
service. Contact your cable service provider for more information if you are not
currently subscribing to Internet service.
Q. How many telephones can I connect?
A. The RJ-11 telephone-style connectors on the cable modem can each provide
telephone service to multiple telephones, fax machines, and analog modems. The
maximum number of telephone devices connected to each RJ-11 port is limited by
the total Ringing Load of the telephone devices that are connected. Many telephone
devices are marked with a Ringer Equivalent Number (REN). Each telephone port
on the cable modem can support up to a 5 REN load. The sum of the REN load on all
of the telephone devices attached to each port must not exceed 5 REN.
