Thread: Signal Levels

I know that acceptable signal levels for cable modems range from -15 to 15 downstream (or even -12 to 12), depending on the provider, and upstream is good if lower than 55. My question is, even though these are considered "acceptable" signal levels, what would be considered optimum? I know that I have read that 0db is optimum. Is this true? What would be the best downstream and upstream to shoot for? For example, am I better of at 0 than +5?

My levels are currently -6 downstream, 50 upstream, and 38 downstream snr. I know that the modem works fine with this signal but wanted to know what techs for various cable companies would consider "excellent".

Also, when testing signal levels, what channels are usually used to represent the differnet bands? I think that my cable company uses ch 2, thirty something, and 79. What are acceptable signal levels for those frequencies?

Finally, can someone recommend an inexpensive signal level meter? I have looked at the ones from Sencore but they are quite pricey.

Your current signal levels are excellent.... The DS Could be a little higher tho

The reason for the 2-30-79 is to get readings from the low mid and high bands. There is more signal loss at higher frequencies over long stretches of cable.

+0 is minimum behind the TV for video carriers....Digital carriers like the HSD Or Digital cable will come through 10-15dB lower than analog signals.

Try looking for an Acterna Wavetek MS1300

I think they're a few hunred dollars on ebay???