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7th_Grouper_ret's avatar
7th_Grouper_ret
New Contributor
2 years ago

COX keeps frying my modem.

In the last 4 years I have replaced 3 Modem/Routher combined,  and Just replaced a modem only because they keep getting fried, all have gone bad during a service outage, all have been connected to a UPS/surge protector. The last tech told me that I have a problem with my power. I ask him why this keeps  happening during service outage? he just changed the topic and insisted that it was the power frying my modems. Anyone experienced something similar? I know is not my power, how can I make COX own up to it?

  • WiderMouthOpen's avatar
    WiderMouthOpen
    Esteemed Contributor

    First thing I would check is that your coaxial is connected to your ground at your demarc. Also check that there is no current back feeding onto your ground. I am not a electrician but I think it has something to do with when your neutral gets damaged, the next path of least resistance is the ground.

  • If you have a meter, check for AC voltage between the tip and sleeve of the coax cable.  You might also want to use a basic outlet tester to see if there are any problems with the way your electrical outlets are wired.  it sounds to me like you have an electrical issue somewhere.

  • Darkatt's avatar
    Darkatt
    Honored Contributor

    Cox cannot own up to it, because the Coax doesn't conduct electricity, it's is an RF signal, and basically an antenna wire. Electricity requires 2 wires, positive, and negative, the Coax only has a single wire, the second layer is only a shield, not conductive wire. The ONLY time electrical current comes over the coax, is when there is an electric/lightning strike, and you SHOULD have a ground tap outside to prevent that. 

    Next, does your surge protector have a ground detector, to ensure that neutral and ground aren't reversed on that outlet. If it is, that could cause your issues. 

  • marke2571's avatar
    marke2571
    New Contributor

    Mine fried at exactly 7am and had worked fine for years - top tier Arris modem -  been through several days of intermittent outtages and bam, dead at 7 am. Call support,first they play like they can’t get my new Arris working, so they have to connect me with the sales dept, no thanks. Chat up cox and raise hell and suddenly they can activate my modem. Greedy thugs with a monopoly.  yes, they fry modems. 

    • WiderMouthOpen's avatar
      WiderMouthOpen
      Esteemed Contributor

      As someone who used to work for Cox, I can assure you there is no system in place to intentionally fry a modem. Not to say things can't happen accidentally though. Do you have your demarc grounded?