FAQs about High-Speed Internet


- What is a cable modem?

- What are the advantages of a cable modem?
- What are the requirements for cable modem service?
- I do not have cable service, can I still use a cable modem?
- What can I do to prepare for a cable modem?
- If I have a compatible network card, will the installation price be reduced?
- Who is responsible for computer configuration?
- What is included with the cable modem service?
- Can I keep my Super-Net dialup email account?
- I like to use AOL or Prodigy. Will I still be able to connect to them?
- What is the difference between a cable modem and Road Runner?
- My telephone modem does not connect at it's maximum speed. Will this happen with my cable modem?
- Can I upgrade my cable modem service at any time?
- Can I install the cable modem myself?
- May I purchase a cable modem from Super-Net?
- If I have a credit balance on my Super-Net dialup account for Internet service, will it be applied to my cable modem account?
- Who answers my technical support questions?
- Can I setup a web, mail, or FTP server?
- How many e-mail accounts do I receive with my cable modem?

- What do I need to do if I change the network card in my computer after the cable modem has been installed?



Q. What is a cable modem?

A. A cable modem is a device that connects your computer to the Internet using the same cable that supplies your cable television service. A cable modem will not affect your television picture and you will be able to watch TV and use all other TV functions while using your cable modem. A cable modem is an external device. It is not installed inside your computer. The cable modem is attached to your computer by an Ethernet cable (included with the cable modem). A network card must be installed inside your computer to receive the Ethernet cable. Super-Net will provide and install a network card as part of our standard $54.00 installation. [back to top]

Q. What are the advantages of a cable modem?
A. The main benefits of a cable modem are convenience, reliability and speed. It can also save you money. CONVENIENCE - A cable modem is convenient because it does not require a phone line. This means you can talk on the phone and use the Internet at the same time. A cable modem is convenient because it is always connected. You will not have to dial a phone number or remember your userid or password. You will not have to worry about busy signals or annoying messages from the operator, such as, "All Circuits Are Busy, Hang up And Try Your Call Later." RELIABILITY - The constant connection of a cable modem offers the highest reliability. Since you are always connected, there are no busy signals. You will not be disconnected while downloading large files. You won't have to worry about being disconnected when someone picks up the phone while you are on line. SPEED - A cable modem offers higher speed. The lowest level of cable modem service is faster than a connection to the Internet over a standard telephone line. Your web pages will appear faster and downloading large files will be a breeze. MONEY-SAVING - A cable modem might save you money. If you maintain a separate phone line for your Internet use, you can eliminate the extra phone line and the associated cost. [back to top]

Q. What are the requirements for cable modem service?
A. You must live within the Clear Picture service area and have an active cable TV service drop to your home. Please consult the System Requirements page to insure that your computer has the necessary features for cable modem service. [back to top]

Q. I do not have cable service, can I still use a cable modem?
A. Yes, however, you will need to call Clear Picture at 330-345-8114 and order a cable connection. Please call for installation costs. There is a $10.00 a month charge to maintain the connection for cable modem service if you do not subscribe to Basic cable TV service. [back to top]

Q. What can I do to prepare for a cable modem?
A. You must have a cable TV outlet in the same room as your computer. You must be able to install a cable wire from that outlet to the cable modem (within 6 feet of your computer or hub) without crossing a doorway or traffic area (a common sense safety measure). If you do not have a cable outlet you will need to install one. Please call Clear Picture at 330-345-8114 and request an installation. There is a charge for this service. You must also have a network card installed in your computer. You can make your computer "cable modem ready" if you are buying a new computer or having an old one fixed. Have them install a network card in the computer. We recommend using a network card manufactured by 3Com, part number 3C509B or 3C900B. [back to top]

Q. If I have a compatible network card, will the installation price be reduced?
A. Yes, installation is only $54 if your computer is already equipped with a compatible network card. [back to top]

Q. Who is responsible for computer configuration?
A. Super-Net will use all reasonable means to insure that your computer is working properly with the cable modem. If Super-Net provides the network card, we will strive to create the proper computer configuration. If you provide your own network card, you are responsible for any and all computer configuration. [back to top]

Q. What is included with the cable modem service?
A. Cable modem service includes all of the features currently provided to Super-Net dialup customers. These include unlimited access to the Internet, an email account, access to news groups and other services. [back to top]

Q. Can I keep my Super-Net dialup email account?
A. Yes, your Super-Net email address will not change.[back to top]

Q. I like to use AOL. Will I still be able to connect to them?
A. Yes. AOL offers service for cable modem customers at an extra charge. However, the faster speed and constant connection should enhance your enjoyment of these services. [back to top]

Q. What is the difference between a cable modem and Road Runner?
A. A cable modem is a piece of electronic hardware that allows communication over cable TV wires. Road Runner is a collection of Internet content. A cable modem does not need the Road Runner content in order to work. In fact, most people with access to Road Runner do not use the service. [back to top]

Q. My telephone modem does not connect at it's maximum speed. Will this happen with my cable modem?
A. Connection speed with a dial up modem is affected by the quality of phone lines. That is not true with a cable modem. The maximum speed of your cable modem connection will be limited by the specific plan you select. As with all data communications, the speed of downloads will vary depending on the web site that you are visiting. [back to top]

Q. Can I upgrade my cable modem service at any time?
A. Yes. You can change your cable modem service package at any time. There is no charge to upgrade your service and there is no need for a return visit by a technician. All you need to do is send an email to cable@SSSNet.com or call 330-345-8114. Super-Net will upgrade your service within 2 to 3 days of notification. [back to top]

Q. Can I install the cable modem myself?
A. No, Super-Net will provide the installation. [back to top]

Q. May I purchase a cable modem from Super-Net?
A. No. Cable modems can not be purchased from Super-Net. [back to top]

Q. If I have a credit balance on my Super-Net dialup account for Internet service, will it be applied to my cable modem account?
A. Yes, the balance will be applied. [back to top]

Q. Who answers my technical support questions?
A. The Super-Net helpdesk will handle all technical support calls. They may be reached at 330-202-7759 or help@SSSNet.com. [back to top]

Q. Can I setup a web, mail, or FTP server?
A. The installation of a web (domain), mail or ftp server or servers is expressly prohibited and may result in the immediate termination of an account. If you need to setup a server of the above type, you must contact Super-Net prior to the installation of the server. Pricing for this type of service starts at $400.00 a month and is granted at the sole discretion of Super-Net. [back to top]

Q. How many e-mail accounts do I receive with my cable modem?
A. One e-mail account is included with your cable modem account. Additional e-mail accounts can be purchased for $3.00 per month per account. [back to top]

Q. What do I need to do if I change the network card in my computer or install a router after the cable modem has been installed?
A. You will need to call the Super-Net helpdesk with the MAC adapter address for the new network card. [back to top]