Source : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing

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)