cable modem

    A type of modem that allows
   people to access the Internet via their cable television
   service.

   A cable modem can transfer data at 500 kbps or higher,
   compared with 28.8 kbps for common telephone line modems, but
   the actual transfer rates may be lower depending on the number
   of other simultaneous users on the same cable.

   Industry pundits often point out that the cable system still
   does not have the bandwidth or service level in many areas
   to make this feasible.  For example, it has to be capable of
   two-way communication.

   See also: DOCSIS.

   (2000-12-19)