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Which Option for Home Network Layout? (also what's that white cable) (alien.top)

submitted 11 months ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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https://preview.redd.it/p50zvpxsl12c1.jpg?width=1633&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f47528cabe9509944ee50655349a2d2790aeaee4

New build townhouse, panel is in 3rd floor closet. Phone jack + coax in every room, so my 1st step will be converting all the cat5e to ethernet so I can hardwire all the Decos. They terminate in the panel closet, so I plan to have an 8-port switch in there. My current setup has the modem on the 2nd floor, so the coax is coming in from the outside (not sure where exactly) up thru the panel to a splitter, then down to modem. I would like to put the new router in the 3rd floor office where there is more space.

Option 1 would allow me to connect the modem directly to the incoming coax. Option 2 would allow me to keep modem and router together in the same room where they are more easily accessible and also better ventilated.

-Does it make a significant difference whether the coax connects directly to the modem or after a splitter?

-Also, what is that super long white cable that is wound up in the back? The end is wrapped in black tape in the top *left corner and not connected to anything.

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago (2 children)

The long white 'cable' is probably a tube with either a pull string for future fiber or already has the fiber in it. What does the writing say?

A splitter will attenuate signal level to/from your modem. Typically 3-7 dB, depending on the splitter. If you do not have a need to split, the coax, use a female-to-female feed-thru connector. If the signals are already marginal, don't use a splitter. Check the upstream signal level, before moving the modem. If it's getting above 42-ish dB, then splitter is a bad idea. The downstream signal level should be above -5-ish dB if you will add a splitter.

I haven't noticed the S33 getting as hot as some older modems, but I haven't paid that much attention. If it gets hot, then keep it in the open. Personally, I like to see all of the lights/LEDs.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago (1 children)

I think you're right about white "cable" - it feels hollow like a tube and is labeled with "AT&T" and something about being lubricated with silicone (it's kind of hard to read).

That's a good idea about the connector. We do not technically need a splitter because we don't have TV service, but I was going to use it as an informal connector since it's already there. If the splitter is not actually splitting off into multiple coax cables, can it function as a connector without affecting the signal? Or would it be better to buy a separate connector? Thanks!

[–] [email protected] 1 points 11 months ago

A splitter will attenuated the signal. If it doesn't cause any issues, I would terminate the unused port with a 75 ohm terminator to limit the amount of reflected signal.

The bottom line, it will probably be OK.