Technicolor Thomson Network Router Thomson CABLE MODEM User Manual

Internet On/Off  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
CABLE MODEM  
 
Table of Contents  
Introduction ......................................................................................................................................... 2  
Cable Modem Features .................................................................................................................................................. 2  
What’s on the CD-ROM .................................................................................................................................................. 2  
Accessing the Diagnostics Display through the CD-ROM ............................................................................................. 2  
Computer Requirements ................................................................................................................................................ 3  
Cable Modem Overview ..................................................................................................................... 4  
What the Modem Does .................................................................................................................................................. 4  
What the Modem Needs to Do Its Job .......................................................................................................................... 5  
Before You Begin ................................................................................................................................. 5  
Contact Your Local Cable Company .............................................................................................................................. 5  
Connecting the Cable Modem ............................................................................................................ 7  
Connecting the Cable Modem to a Single Computer .................................................................................................. 7  
USB Connection .............................................................................................................................................................. 9  
Using Windows 98 SE for USB Connection ................................................................................................................. 10  
Using Windows 2000 for USB Connection .................................................................................................................. 14  
Using Windows Me for USB Connection ..................................................................................................................... 18  
Using Windows XP for USB Connection ...................................................................................................................... 20  
Ethernet Connection to One Computer ...................................................................................................................... 22  
Connecting More Than Two Computers to the Cable Modem .................................................................................. 23  
Activating the Cable Modem............................................................................................................ 24  
Initialization Mode ....................................................................................................................................................... 24  
Using the Cable Modem .............................................................................................................................................. 26  
Indicators – Operational Mode .................................................................................................................................... 25  
Buttons .......................................................................................................................................................................... 25  
Reset Switch .................................................................................................................................................................. 26  
Other Status Indicators ................................................................................................................................................. 26  
Frequently Asked Questions ............................................................................................................ 27  
General Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................. 29  
USB Troubleshooting......................................................................................................................... 31  
FCC Declaration of Conformity and Industry Canada Information ............................................... 42  
Quick Reference ................................................................................................................................. 43  
Service Information ........................................................................................................................... 44  
Glossary.............................................................................................................................................. 45  
1
 
Introduction  
Cable Modem Features  
DOCSIS models are capable of receiving data at rates of up to 30Mbps(30 Megabits per  
second).  
Euro-DOCSIS models are capable of receiving data at rates of up to 38Mbps(38 Megabits  
per second).  
Able to send and receive data over the cable line  
Able to connect 2 computers through Ethernet and USB at the same time (if allowed by the  
cable operator)  
Plug-and-play operation for easy setup and installation  
ON/OFF button to connect and disconnect access to the Internet  
Message waiting notification capability (if allowed by the cable operator)  
Diagnostics via LED or HTTP server (if allowed by the cable operator)  
Able to receive automatic software updates, if initiated by your cable company  
The following may affect the speed of your cable modem: your computer equipment and  
configuration (processor speed, amount of RAM, available disk space); the number of  
programs you are running at the same time; the capacity of your ISP; network traffic levels;  
the number of Ethernet or USB devices in use on your computer. Your cable company may  
or may not fully support the speed capabilities of this modem.  
What’s on the CD-ROM  
Insert the cable modem CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive to view troubleshooting tips, the  
internal diagnostics, and other valuable information.  
Note: You will need to use the CD-ROM to install the USB driver if you are connecting via the  
USB port.  
CD-ROM Contents:  
Electronic file of the instruction book in additional languages  
USB drivers  
Usage and troubleshooting tips  
Accessing the Diagnostics Display through the CD-ROM  
A button on the CD-ROM menu called “Look at Diagnostics” (found under the “About My Cable  
Modem” menu) launches your browser and displays status and diagnostic information stored  
within the modem in HTML format (if allowed by the cable operator).  
2
 
Introduction  
Please note that before this page can be displayed, your PC must receive an IP address  
assignment from the Cable company’s server, over the cable network. You may want to  
“bookmark” the IP address in your browser after the diagnostics page is displayed.  
Computer Requirements  
Personal computer with the following minimum system requirements (note that the minimum  
requirements may vary by cable company):  
IBM PC COMPATIBLE  
Pentium preferred  
MACINTOSH**  
CPU  
PowerPC or higher  
System RAM  
Operating System  
16MB (32MB preferred)  
24MB (32MB preferred)  
Mac OS** 7.6.1 or higher  
Windows* 98SE/2000/Me/XP,  
Linux  
Available Disk Space 125MB  
50MB  
Sound Card  
Video  
Preferred  
N/A†  
VGA or better (SVGA preferred)  
Required for USB  
VGA or better (SVGA built-in preferred)  
Required  
CD-ROM Drive  
Ethernet  
10BaseT or 100BaseT  
10BaseT or 100BaseT  
An Ethernet card makes it possible for your computer to pass data to  
and from the internet. You must have an Ethernet card and software  
drivers installed in your computer. You will also need a standard  
Ethernet cable to connect the Ethernet card to your cable modem.  
USB Port  
USB (Windows 98SE/2000/Me/XP only) N/A†  
The Universal Serial Bus is a high speed bus that enables your  
computer to communicate simultaneously with a variety of  
peripherals. However, if you have other peripherals that send and  
receive a lot of information, such as speakers, printers or scanners,  
we recommend using an Ethernet card to support this modem.  
Mac Users: Mac OS or any other OS other than Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, or XP are not currently  
supported for USB installation. Please use the Ethernet connection.  
*Windows is a trademark of the Microsoft Corporation.  
**Macintosh and the Mac OS are trademarks of Apple Computer, Inc.  
3
 
Introduction  
Placing the Rubber Feet on the Cable Modem  
A set of rubber pads have been packaged with your modem. These pads (or "feet") can be  
attached to keep the modem from sliding around on your desktop.  
Internet On/Off  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
Attach the pads to the four posts on the bottom of the modem.  
Cable Modem Overview  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Cable Modem  
Cable Company  
Computer  
Internet  
This illustration shows a cable company that offers DOCSIS-compliant or  
Euro-DOCSIS compliant Internet services  
What the Modem Does  
The Thomson digital cable modem serves as a two-way high-speed bridge between your personal  
computer and a cable Internet Service Provider (ISP). It converts information that originates from  
the Internet or your computer into electronic messages that can be transported over the same  
wires your cable company uses to transport video signals.  
4
 
Cable Modem Overview  
What the Modem Needs to Do Its Job  
The Right Cable Company: Make sure your local cable company provides data services  
that use cable industry-standard DOCSIS or Euro-DOCSIS technology compatible with your  
cable modem.  
The Internet Service Provider (ISP): Your cable company provides you access to an  
Internet Service Provider (ISP). The ISP is your gateway to the Internet. It provides you with  
a pipeline to access Internet content on the World Wide Web (WWW).  
Check with your cable company to make sure you have everything you need to begin; they’ll  
know if you need to install special software or re-configure your computer to make your  
cable internet service work for you.  
Before You Begin  
Contact Your Local Cable Company  
You will need to contact your cable company to establish an internet account before you can use  
your modem. You should have the following information (which you will find on the sticker on  
the modem) ready:  
The serial number  
The model number of the modem  
The Media Access Control (MAC) address  
Record your information here:  
Serial Number:  
Model Number:  
MAC Address:  
5
 
Before You Begin  
Please verify the following with the cable company:  
The cable service to your home supports DOCSIS-compliant or EuroDOCSIS-compliant two-  
way modem access.  
Your Internet account has been set up.  
You have a cable outlet near your PC and it is ready for cable modem service.  
Note: It is important to supply power to the modem at all times. Keeping your modem  
plugged in will keep it connected to the Internet. This means that it will always be ready  
when you are. To disconnect just your computer from the Internet, use the ON/OFF button.  
Important Information  
Your cable company should always be consulted before installing a new cable outlet. Do not  
attempt any rewiring without contacting your cable company first.  
Note: Graphics used within this publication are for representation only.  
6
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Connecting the Cable Modem to a Single Computer  
This section of the manual explains how to connect your cable modem to the USB or Ethernet  
port on your computer and install the necessary software. Please refer to figure 1 to help you  
connect your cable modem for the best possible connection.  
Attaching the Cable TV wire to the Cable Modem  
1. Locate the Cable TV wire. You may find it one of three ways:  
A. Connected directly to a TV, a Cable TV converter box, or VCR. The line will be  
connected to the jack which should be labeled either IN, CABLE IN, CATV, CATV IN,  
etc.  
B. Connected to a wall-mounted cable outlet.  
C. Coming out from under a baseboard heater or other location. See Figure 1 for the  
wiring example.  
TV converter  
TV  
TV converter  
TV  
Cable drop  
Modem  
PC  
Notes: For optimum  
TV converter  
performance, be sure to connect  
your cable modem to the first  
point the cable enters your home.  
TV  
The splitter must be rated for at  
least 1GHz.  
New cable wire  
= Splitters  
Fig. 1: Basic Home Wiring  
7
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Important Connection Information  
The cable modem supports both Ethernet and USB connections simultaneously (if allowed by  
your cable provider).  
Note: Only use the power supply provided  
with this unit. Using other power supplies may  
damage the unit.  
3V800mA ETHERNET  
USB  
RESET  
CABLE  
Coaxial Cable  
AC Power Supply  
Fig. 2: USB Connection  
8
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Below are important points to remember before you connect the cable modem:  
You should have a Windows® 98 SE (Second Edition), Windows Me (Millennium Edition),  
Windows 2000, or Windows XP operating system to use the Universal Serial Bus (USB)  
connection.  
For Ethernet connections, go to page 22.  
USB Connection  
The cable modem CD included with your modem contains the drivers and other information you  
need to install your cable modem. Follow instructions 1 through 5 to connect the cable modem to  
the USB port on your computer. Instructions must be followed in the order they appear.  
1. Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the cable connection in the wall. Attach the other end  
of the coaxial cable to the connector on the cable modem labeled “CABLE” (Fig. 2) on page 8.  
2. Insert the plug from the AC power supply into the power AC jack on cable modem and the  
two-prong plug into the AC outlet.  
3. Insert the supplied cable modem CD-ROM. Wait momentarily for the cable modem CD  
window display.  
4. Close all open applications and dialog boxes, including the cable modem CD window.  
Note: Open applications may interfere with your cable modem installation.  
5. Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port located on the back of your computer.  
Connect the other end of the USB cable to the USB port on the cable modem’s back panel.  
Note: Use only the power supply that accompanied this unit. Using other power supplies may  
damage the unit.  
Next, you need to install the USB driver for your operating system:  
If you have Windows 98 SE, go to step 6 on page 10.  
If you have Windows 2000, go to step 6 on page 14.  
If you have Windows Me, go to step 6 on page 18.  
If you have Windows XP, go to step 6 on page 20.  
9
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Using Windows 98 SE for USB Connection  
Follow steps 6 through 14 if you have a Windows 98 SE operating system:  
6. When the “Add New Hardware Wizard” appears, click “Next” to initiate the search for drivers  
for your USB device. (Fig. 3)  
Note: If the “Add New Hardware Wizard” did not automatically appear, Windows 98 SE does  
not recognize the cable modem’s presence because your BIOS (Basic Input/Output System)  
settings may not permit USB and/or Plug-and-Play devices. Please contact your computer’s  
customer service department.  
7. Choose “Search for the best driver (recommended)” option, and click “Next.”  
(Fig. 4).  
8. Choose ONLY the “CD-ROM drive” option and click “Next” (Fig. 5).  
9. Choose “The updated driver (recommended)” option, and click “Next” (Fig. 6).  
Fig. 3  
Fig. 4  
Fig. 5  
Fig. 6  
10  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
10. The search should find the driver for the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” (Fig. 7). To  
confirm that this is the case, click “Next” to continue and proceed to step 12. Otherwise, see  
step 11.  
Important: Do NOT continue if the search finds “USB Composite Device” driver. Proceed to  
step 11.  
11. Follow these instructions only if the driver found was NOT the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable  
Modem.”  
A. Click “Back” to return to the previous window.  
B. Ensure that you have selected the “CD-ROM” option.  
C. In addition to the CD-ROM selection, choose “Specify a location” (Fig. 8 ).  
D. In the location box, type in your CD-ROM drive. For example, if your CD-ROM is  
located on the E: drive, type “E:\.”  
E. Click “Next” to continue.  
The search should find the driver for the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem.”  
F. Confirm that this is the driver selected, and click “Next” to continue.  
Fig. 7  
Fig. 8  
(continued on next page)  
11  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
12. Windows should now prompt you to install the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” driver.  
Click “Next” to install the driver.  
At this point, your PC needs to copy Windows 98 SE specific files. If these files are not  
located on your hard drive, you may need to insert your Windows 98 SE installation media  
(i.e., Windows disks or Windows CD-ROM), but first remove the cable modem CD-ROM.  
13. After the Windows specific files are copied, you may be asked for another USB driver file  
named “NETRCACM.SYS”, located on the cable modem CD-ROM. Remove the Windows 98  
SE CD-ROM (if necessary), and reinsert the cable modem  
CD-ROM that accompanied your cable modem.  
14. Windows now informs you that the installation is complete. Click on “Finish” to finalize the  
process (Fig. 9). When the “System Settings Change” window appears, click “Yes” to restart  
your computer.  
Fig. 9  
12  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
15. The cable modem installation is now complete. To validate a proper installation, perform the  
following instructions:  
A. Click on the “Start” icon in the lower left-hand corner of your screen.  
B. Select “Settings,” followed by “Control Panel.” The “Control Panel” window appears.  
C. Double-click on the “System” icon, and select the “Device Manager” tab.  
D. Scroll down the list until you come to “Network Adapters.” Double-click on “Network  
Adapters.”  
If the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” does not exist, the cable modem was NOT  
installed correctly, go to Solution 2 on page 35.  
13  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Using Windows 2000 for USB Connection  
Follow steps 6 through 14 if you have a Windows 2000 operating system:  
6. When the “Found New Hardware Wizard” appears, click “Next” to initiate the search for  
drivers for your USB device (Fig. 10).  
Note: If Windows 2000 does not recognize the cable modem’s presence, your BIOS settings  
may not permit USB and/or Plug-and-Play devices. Please contact your computer’s customer  
service department.  
7. Choose the “Search for a suitable driver for my device (recommended)” option, and click  
“Next” (Fig. 11).  
8. Choose ONLY the “CD-ROM” option and click “Next” (Fig. 12).  
Fig. 11  
Fig. 10  
Fig. 12  
14  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
9. The search should find the driver for the “RCA or Thomson DCM xxx Cable Modem”  
(Fig. 13). To confirm that this is the case, click “Next” to continue and proceed to step 11.  
Otherwise, see step 10.  
Important: Do NOT continue if the search finds “USB Composite Device” driver. Proceed to  
step 10.  
10. Follow these instructions ONLY if the driver found was NOT the “RCA or Thomson DCM xxx  
Cable Modem.”  
A. Click “Back” to return to the previous window.  
B. Ensure that you have selected the “CD-ROM” option.  
C. In addition to the CD-ROM option, choose “Specify a location.” Click on “Next” to  
continue (Fig. 14).  
D. In the location box, type in your CD-ROM drive. For example, if your  
CD-ROM is located on the E: drive, type “E:\.” Click on “Ok” to continue.  
E. Click “Next” to continue.  
The search should find either “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” or “RCA or  
Thomson DCM xxx Cable Modem.”  
Fig. 14  
Fig. 13  
(continued on next page)  
15  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
11. Windows should now prompt you to install either the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem”  
or “RCA or Thomson DCM xxx Cable Modem.” Click “Next” to install the driver.  
At this point your PC needs to copy Windows 2000 specific files. If these files are not located  
on your hard drive, you may need to insert your Windows 2000 installation media (i.e.,  
Windows 2000 CD-ROM), but first remove the cable modem CD-ROM.  
12. After the Windows specific files are copied, you may be asked for another USB driver file  
named “NETRCACM.SYS,” located on the cable modem CD-ROM. Remove the Windows  
2000 CD-ROM (if necessary), and reinsert the cable modem  
CD-ROM that accompanied your cable modem.  
13. Click on “Finish” to complete the process (Fig. 15).  
Fig. 15  
16  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
14. The cable modem installation is now complete. To validate a proper installation, perform  
the following instructions:  
A. Click on the “Start” icon in the lower left-hand corner of your screen.  
B. Select “Settings,” followed by “Control Panel.” The “Control Panel” window appears.  
C. Double-click on the “System” icon, select the “Hardware” tab, and choose “Device  
Manager.”  
D. Scroll down the list until you come to “Network Adapters.” Double-click on “Network  
Adapters.”  
The “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” should exist. If the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable  
Modem” does not exist, the cable modem was NOT installed correctly. Go to Solution 2 on  
page 35.  
17  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Using Windows Me for USB Connection  
Follow steps 6 through 9 if you have a Windows Me operating system:  
6. Windows Me will briefly display the “Found New Hardware Wizard,” and automatically  
proceed to the “Add New Hardware Wizard” (Fig. 16).  
Choose the “Automatic search for a better driver (Recommended)” option, and click “Next.”  
Note: If Windows Me does not recognize the cable modem’s presence, i.e., the “Add New  
Hardware Wizard” did not automatically appear, your BIOS settings may not permit USB and/  
or Plug-and-Play devices. Please contact your computer’s customer service department.  
7. The automatic search should find and install the driver for the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable  
Modem” (Fig. 17). Click on “Finish” to complete the process.  
8. When the “System Settings Change” window appears, click “Yes” to restart your computer  
(Fig. 18).  
Fig. 16  
Fig. 18  
Fig. 17  
18  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
9. The Thomson cable modem installation is now complete. To validate a proper installation,  
perform the following instructions:  
Click on the “Start” icon in the lower left-hand corner of your screen.  
Select “Settings,” followed by “Control Panel.” The “Control Panel” window will appear.  
Double-click on the “System” icon, and select the “Device Manager.”  
Scroll down the list until you come to “Network Adapters.” Double-click on “Network  
Adapters.”  
The “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” should exist. If “RCA or Thomson USB Cable  
Modem” does not exist, the cable modem was NOT installed correctly. Go to Solution 2 on  
page 35.  
19  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Using Windows XP for USB Connection  
Follow steps 6 through 9 if you have a Windows XP operating system:  
6. Windows XP will briefly display the “Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard,” (Fig. 19)  
and ask you to insert the installation CD-ROM that came with the unit.  
Choose the “Install the software automatically (Recommended)” option, and click “Next.”  
Note: If Windows XP does not recognize the cable modem’s presence, i.e., the “Welcome to  
the New Hardware Wizard” did not automatically appear, your BIOS settings may not permit  
USB and/or Plug-and-Play devices. Please contact your computer’s customer service  
department.  
7. Your computer will install the drivers for the “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” (Fig. 20).  
Click on “Next” to complete the process.  
Fig. 20  
Fig. 19  
20  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
8. When the “Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard” window appears, click “Finish” to  
complete the process (Fig. 21).  
9. The Thomson cable modem installation is now complete. To validate a proper installation,  
perform the following instructions:  
Click on the “Start” icon in the lower left-hand corner of your screen.  
Select “Settings,” followed by “Control Panel.” The “Control Panel” window will appear.  
Double-click on the “System” icon, and select the “Device Manager.”  
Scroll down the list until you come to “Network Adapters.” Double-click on “Network  
Adapters.”  
The “RCA or Thomson USB Cable Modem” should exist. If “RCA or Thomson USB Cable  
Modem” does not exist, the cable modem was NOT installed correctly. Go to Solution 2 on  
page 35.  
Fig. 21  
21  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Ethernet Connection to One Computer  
Make the connections to the modem in the following sequence (Fig. 22):  
1. Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the cable connection in the wall, and the other end to  
the connector on the modem labeled “CABLE.”  
2. Insert the plug from the AC power supply into the power AC jack on the cable modem and the  
two-prong plug into the AC outlet.  
Note: Use only the power supply that accompanied this unit. Using other adapters may damage  
the unit.  
3. Connect one end of the Ethernet cable (straight-wired, see below) to the Ethernet port on the  
back of your computer, and the other end to the ETHERNET port on the cable modem’s back  
panel.  
Make sure that the Ethernet cable is straight-wired (not “null” or crossover-wired). However,  
you will need a crossover-type cable if you are connecting the modem to a hub, or a hub  
within a port switch that provides the same function.  
3
USB  
RESET  
3800mA ETHERNET  
CABLE  
1
CABLE  
Jack  
AC Power  
Supply  
2
Coaxial Cable  
Fig. 22: Ethernet Connection  
22  
 
Connecting the Cable Modem  
Connecting More Than Two Computers to the Cable Modem  
If you need to connect more than two computers or if you need to connect two computers but  
USB is not available, you’ll need the following additional equipment (if supported by your cable  
operator):  
Crossover-wired, or “null,” category 5 Ethernet cable for the cable modem to be connected  
to the hub  
10BaseT or 100BaseT Hub or Switch  
Straight through, or standard, category 5 Ethernet cable (one for each computer to be  
connected)  
If you have a hub with an uplink port*, a straight through cable can be used in combination  
with that port in lieu of the crossover cable.  
3VDC 800mA ETHERNET  
USB  
RESET  
CABLE  
“Null” cable (not supplied)  
Ethernet Hub  
Standard Ethernet cables (one supplied)  
Fig. 23: Ethernet Hub Connection  
*An uplink port has a small switch on it to change the polarity of the connection. It can accept  
either a crossover or a straight cable, depending on the setting.  
23  
 
Activating the Cable Modem  
Initialization Mode  
After you install the cable modem and turn it on for the first time (and each time the modem is  
reconnected to the power), it goes through five steps before it can be used. Each of these steps is  
represented by a different pattern of flashing lights on the front of the modem.  
Note: All indicators flash once prior to the initialization sequence.  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
x
x
x
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
Activity  
2. Ranging – The modem is now tuned to a  
downstream cable modem channel and  
can now receive data. Now it searches for  
an upstream channel so that it can send  
data.  
1. Tuning – The cable modem is functional  
and searching for a downstream cable  
modem service channel on your cable  
system.  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
x
x
x
x
x x  
x
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
Activity  
3. Connecting – The cable modem is now  
commun-icating start-up data both down-  
stream and upstream.  
4. Configuring – The cable modem received  
its IP address and is downloading its  
configuration file from the Internet  
Service Provider (ISP).  
The cable company is establishing IP  
connectivity with your modem.  
5. Registering – The cable modem  
configuration is complete. It is  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
registering its “as-configured” settings  
with your Cable Operator. Once  
complete, the POWER (INTERNET)*, PC  
LINK, and CABLE (CABLE ACTIVITY)*  
indicators stop flashing and remain on.  
Internet On/Off  
x
x
x x  
x
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
* Actual button or LED names may vary per model.  
Legend  
Off  
On  
Flashing  
X
24  
 
Additional Information  
Buttons  
INTERNET ON/OFF* – Turns the Internet connection ON and OFF for additional security. In  
OFF mode, the CABLE ACTIVITY LED is also disabled.  
Important: Do not press this button when transmitting data over the Internet. The  
information will be lost and your Internet connection disabled.  
Indicators – Operational Mode  
Internet On/Off  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
INTERNET* – Indicates whether the Internet Connection is active.  
PC LINK – Indicates whether the connection between the computer and  
the modem is active (ready to transmit/receive) or actually transmitting/  
receiving. The light is off when no carrier is present (or the modem is in  
standby mode), on when the carrier is present but there’s no transmit/  
receive activity, and flashing when there is transmit/receive activity.  
CABLE LINK* – Indicates the status of your cable connection. The light  
is off when no cable connection is detected and fully lit when the modem  
is registered with the network and data can be sent.  
CABLE ACTIVITY* – Indicates the existence of data traffic in the cable  
lines. The light is off when no data traffic is present and flashing when  
data activity exists.  
MESSAGE* – This light flashes when you have mail or message (if  
available through service provider).  
Note: If all of the lights are flashing sequentially, it means the cable modem is automatically  
updating its system software. Please wait for the lights to stop flashing. You cannot use your  
modem during this time. Do not remove the power supply or reset the cable modem during  
this process.  
* Actual button or LED names may vary per model.  
25  
 
Using the Cable Modem  
Reset switch  
Reset Switch  
The reset switch can be found behind a “toothpick  
hole” on the back panel. It performs two  
functions:  
3VDC 800mA ETHERNET  
USB  
RESET  
CABLE  
Basic Reset – Press and release the switch to make it perform the same function as  
disconnecting the power from the modem. It will start up again in Initialization Mode, see  
page 24.  
Factory Default Reset – Unplug the modem from the AC power. Press and hold the reset  
switch while plugging the modem into AC power. Continue holding the switch. Release the  
switch when all lights come on (about 6 seconds). This will return the modem to a factory  
“out of box” condition. This should only be done if the cable modem has been taken out  
of service in one location and is being reconnected to a different service, or if  
instructed to do so by your cable company.  
Other Status Indicators  
Three other status light patterns you may see are:  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Internet On/Off  
Internet On/Off  
x
x
x
x x  
x
Message  
Internet  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
Activity  
De-Activated – Cable Service Operator has  
deactivated the cable modem. The cable  
light flashes slowly.  
Software downloading or update in progress.  
Lights flash sequentially from top to bottom.  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable PC Link Internet  
Link  
Internet On/Off  
Message  
Internet  
Cable  
Cable PC Link  
Link  
Activity  
Standby – The modem is in the Standby mode. There is no connection to the Internet. The  
CABLE LINK light is on and the PC LINK light is on if a computer is connected.  
* Actual button or LED names may vary per model.  
Legend  
Off  
On  
Flashing  
X
26  
 
Frequently Asked Questions  
Frequently Asked Questions  
Q. What if I don’t subscribe to cable TV?  
A. If cable TV is available in your area, data service may be made available with or without  
cable TV service. Contact your local cable company for complete information on cable  
services, including high-speed internet access.  
Q. How do I get the system installed?  
A. Professional installation from your cable provider is strongly recommended. They will ensure  
proper cable connection to the modem and your computer. However, your retailer may have  
offered a self installation kit, including the necessary software to communicate with your  
cable ISP.  
Q. Once my cable modem is connected, how do I get access to the Internet?  
A. Your local cable company provides your internet service*, offering a wide range of services  
including email, chat, and news and information services, and a connection to the World  
Wide Web.  
Q. Can I watch TV and surf the Internet at the same time?  
A. Absolutely! And your phone line won’t be tied up while you’re online.  
Q. Can I run more than one computer on the modem?  
A. Yes – a single cable modem can support up to 32 computers using Ethernet connectivity.**  
Q. What do you mean by “Broadband”?  
A. Simply put, it means you’ll be getting information through a “bigger pipe,” with more  
bandwidth, than a standard phone line can offer. A wider, “broader” band means more  
information, more quickly.  
* Monthly subscription fee applies.  
** Additional equipment required. Contact your cable company and ISP for any restrictions or  
additional fees.  
(continued on next page)  
27  
 
Frequently Asked Questions  
Q. What is DOCSIS and what does it mean?  
A. “Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications” is the industry standard that most cable  
companies are adopting as they upgrade their systems. Should you ever decide to move, the  
Euro-DOCSIS cable modem will work with all upgraded cable systems that are  
EuroDOCSIS-compliant or DOCSIS*-compliant.  
Q. What is Euro-DOCSIS and what does it mean?  
A. Euro-DOCSIS is the modified DOCSIS standard to accommodate European cable systems  
which often use 8 MHz channel spacing cable networks.  
*If the DOCSIS downstream frequencies match the EuroDOCSIS frequency range.  
28  
 
FCC Information  
FCC Declaration of Conformity and Industry Canada  
Information  
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two  
conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept  
any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.  
Trade Name: RCA  
Equipment Classification:  
Model: DCM425  
Computing Device Accessory  
Responsible Party:  
Thomson Inc.  
10330 N. Meridian Street  
Indianapolis, IN 46290  
Telephone: 580 634-0151  
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,  
pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable  
protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates,  
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with  
the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However there is no  
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does  
cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning  
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try and correct the interference by one or  
more of the following measures:  
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.  
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.  
• Connect this equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is  
connected.  
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.  
FCC regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment may void  
the user’s authority to operate it.  
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requiements of the Canadian Interference Causing  
Equipment Regulations.  
This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.  
Cet appareil numérique de la classe B est conforme à la norme NMB-003 du Canada.  
42  
 
Quick Reference  
Minimum System Requirements  
IBM PC COMPATIBLE  
MACINTOSH  
PowerPC or higher  
CPU  
Pentium preferred  
System RAM  
Operating System  
16MB (32MB preferred)  
Windows 98SE/2000/Me/XP, Linux  
24MB (32MB preferred)  
Mac OS 7.6.1 or higher  
50MB  
Available Disk Space 125MB  
Sound Card  
Video  
Preferred  
N/A†  
VGA or better (SVGA preferred)  
Required for USB  
VGA or better (SVGA built-in preferred)  
Required  
CD-ROM Drive  
Ethernet  
10BaseT or 100BaseT  
10BaseT or 100BaseT  
USB Port  
USB (Windows 98SE/2000/Me/XP only) N/A†  
The Universal Serial Bus is a high speed bus that enables your computer to  
communicate simultaneously with a variety of peripherals. If you have other  
peripherals that send and receive a lot of information, such as speakers, printers or  
scanners, we recommend using an Ethernet card to support this modem.  
Connecting the Cable Modem  
1. Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the cable connection in the wall, and the other end  
to the connector on the modem labeled CABLE.  
2. a.  
b.  
Insert the plug from the AC power supply into the power AC jack on the cable modem.  
Insert the power cord into the AC adapter, and then plug into an AC outlet.  
3. For USB Connection: Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port on the back of  
your computer, and the other end to the USB port on the cable modem’s back panel. (See  
page 9 for instructions on loading the USB driver.)  
OR  
For Ethernet Connection: Connect one end of the Ethernet cable (straight-wired, see  
above) to the Ethernet port on the back of your computer, and the other end to the  
ETHERNET jack on the modem’s back panel.  
Mac Users: Mac OS or any other OS other than Windows 98SE, Me, 2000, or XP are not  
currently supported for USB installation. Please use the Ethernet connection.  
43  
 
Quick Reference  
Button/Light/LED Indicators  
Internet On/Off  
Message Cable  
Activity  
Cable  
Link  
PC Link  
Internet  
INTERNET ON/OFF* – Turns the Internet connection ON and OFF for additional security. In  
OFF mode, the CABLE ACTIVITY LED is also disabled. Do not press this button when transmitting  
data over the internet. The information will be lost and your connection disabled.  
INTERNET* – Indicates whether the Internet Connection is active.  
PC LINK – Indicates whether the connection between the computer and the modem is active  
(ready to transmit/receive) or actually transmitting/receiving. The light is off when no carrier is  
present (or the modem is in standby mode), on when the carrier is present but there’s no  
transmit/receive activity, and flashing when there is transmit/receive activity.  
CABLE-LINK* – Indicates the status of your cable connection. The light is off when no cable  
connection is detected and fully lit when the modem is registered with the network and data can  
be sent.  
CABLE ACTIVITY* – Indicates the existence of data traffic in the cable lines. The light is off  
when no data traffic is present and flashing when data activity exists.  
MESSAGE* – This light flashes when you have mail or message (if available through service  
provider).  
Service Information  
If you purchased or leased your cable modem directly from your cable company, then warranty  
service for the cable modem may be provided through your cable provider or its authorized  
representative. For information on 1) Order Service, 2) Obtaining Customer Support, or 3)  
Additional Service Information, please contact your cable company. If you purchased your cable  
modem from a retailer, see the enclosed warranty card.  
* Actual button or LED names may vary per model.  
44  
 
Glossary  
10BaseT – Unshielded, twisted pair cable with an RJ-45 connector, used with Ethernet LAN (Local Area  
Network). “10” indicates speed (10 Mbps), “Base” refers to baseband technology, and “T” means twisted  
pair cable.  
DHCP (Dynamic Host Control Protocol) – A protocol which allows a server to dynamically assign IP  
addresses to workstations on the fly.  
DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications) – A project with the objective of  
developing a set of necessary specifications and operations support interface specifications for cable  
modems and associated equipment.  
Ethernet card – A plug-in circuit board installed in an expansion slot of a personal computer. The  
Ethernet card (sometimes called a Network Interface Card or NIC) takes parallel data from the computer,  
converts it to serial data, puts it into a packet format, and sends it over the 10BaseT or 100BaseT LAN  
cable.  
EuroDOCSIS – The modified DOCSIS standard to accommodate European cable systems which  
often use 8 MHz channel spacing cable networks.  
F Connector – A type of coaxial connector, labeled CABLE IN on the rear of the cable modem, that  
connects the modem to the cable system.  
HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) – Invisible to the user, HTTP is used by servers and clients to  
communicate and display information on a client browser.  
Hub – A device used to connect multiple computers to the cable modem.  
IP Address – A unique, 32-bit address assigned to every device in a network. An IP (Internet Protocol)  
address has two parts: a network address and a host address. This modem receives a new IP address  
from your cable operator via DHCP each time it goes through Initialization Mode.  
MAC Address – The permanent “identity” for a device programmed into the Media Access Control layer  
in the network architecture during the modem’s manufacture.  
Network Driver – A file that is loaded on the computer to allow the computer to recognize the Ethernet  
card or USB port.  
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) – A networking protocol that provides  
communication across interconnected networks, between computers with diverse hardware  
architectures and various operating systems.  
Universal Serial Bus (USB) USB is a “plug-and-play” interface between a computer and add-on  
devices, such as a cable modem.  
45  
 
Thomson Inc.  
10330 North Meridian Street  
Indianapolis, IN USA 46290  
© 2004 Thomson Inc.  
Trademark(s) Registered  
Printed in Taiwan  
THOMSON  
TOCOM 16500150  
 

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