Arris Touchstone CM550 User manual

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Touchstone™ CM550 Cable Modem
User’s Guide
Get ready to experience the Internet’s express lane! Whether you’re checking out
streaming media, downloading new software, or checking your email, the Touch-
stone CM550 Cable Modem brings it all to you faster and more reliably. The high-
speed, always-on connection won’t keep you waiting.
The Touchstone Cable Modem provides an USB connection for easy hookup. The
Touchstone Cable Modem also provides an Ethernet connection for use with either
a single computer or home/office LAN. You can even hook up two separate com-
puters at the same time using both these connections.
Installation can be as simple as making three connections and restarting your com-
puter. Your cable company will provide help with any special requirements.
Follow the links below for more information and detailed instructions.
Safety Requirements
Getting Started
Installing and Connecting Your Cable Modem
Installing USB Drivers on Your PC
Using the Cable Modem
Troubleshooting
Glossary

Export Regulations
This product may not be exported outside the U.S. and Canada without U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Export Administration au-
thorization. Any export or re-export by the purchaser, directly or indirectly, in contravention of U.S. Export Administration Regulation is prohib-
ited.
Copyright © 2003–2006 ARRIS International, Inc. Patents pending. All rights reserved.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. The statements, configurations, technical data, and recommendations in
this document are believed to be accurate and reliable, but are presented without express or implied warranty. Users must take full responsi-
bility for their applications of any products specified in this document. The information in this document is proprietary to ARRIS.
ARRIS, Touchstone, and the ARRIS logo are trademarks of ARRIS International, Inc. All other trademarks and registered trademarks are the
property of their respective holders.
Release 5 Standard 1.0 January 2006

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Safety Requirements
ARRIS complies with the applicable requirements for performance, construction, la-
beling, and information as outlined below:
•Do not use the Cable Modem near water (i.e. wet basement, bathtub, sink
or near a swimming pool, etc.). Avoid pouring or spilling liquids on the Cable
Modem.
•Avoid using and/or connecting the Cable Modem during an electrical storm.
•Do not locate the Cable Modem near a heat source (i.e. heat registers, space
heaters, fireplaces, etc.).
•To prevent overheating your Cable Modem, please do not block the ventila-
tion holes on the sides of the unit.
•Use only AC adapter and power cord included with the Cable Modem.
•Install the Cable Modem near an easily accessible AC socket-outlet.
Markings, Symbols, and Labels
Regulatory Symbols (DOCSIS modems)
Regulatory Symbols (Euro-DOCSIS modems)
Model : CM550A
P/N : TC00DA1550
Rating: 9Vdc, 0.8A
FOR HOME OR OFFICE USE
C
R
Patents, Patents Pending,
Copyright ARRIS 2006.
All rights reserved. Made in China
2002/95/EC
RoHS
Model : CM550B
P/N : TC00EA1550
Rating: 9Vdc, 0.8A Made in China
Patents, Patents Pending,
All rights reserved.
Copyright ARRIS 2006.
R
RoHS
2002/95/EC

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Functional Indicators
Radio Frequency Emissions and Immunity
United States Compliance
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the fol-
lowing two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that
may cause undesired operation.
Product Safety
UL listed per UL60950.
Symbol Definition
Instructions: The exclamation point within a triangle alerts you to the pres-
ence of important operating and maintenance instructions.
Alternating Current: A terminal to which or from which an alternating (sine
wave) current or voltage may be applied or supplied.
Direct Current: A terminal to which or from which a direct current or voltage
may be applied or supplied.

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European Compliance
This product complies with the provisions of the Electromagnetic Compatibility
(EMC) Directive (89/336/EEC), the Amending Directive (92/31/EEC), the Low Volt-
age Directive (73/23/EEC), and the CE Marking Directive (93/68/EEC). As such,
this product bears the CE marking in accordance with the above applicable Direc-
tive(s).
A copy of the Declaration of Conformity may be obtained from: ARRIS Internation-
al, Inc., 3871 Lakefield Drive, Suite 300, Suwanee, GA 30024.
As indicated by the symbol below, disposal of this product or battery is governed
by Directive 2002/96/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on waste
electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). WEEE could potentially prove harmful
to the environment; as such, upon disposal of the Cable Modem the Directive re-
quires that this product must not be disposed as unsorted municipal waste, but
rather collected separately and disposed of in accordance with local WEEE ordinanc-
es.
This product complies with directive 2002/95/EC of the European Parliament and
of the Council of 27 January 2003 on the restriction of the use of certain hazardous
substances (RoHS) in electrical and electronic equipment.

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Getting Started
About Your New Cable Modem
The Touchstone CM550 Cable Modem is a DOCSIS 2.0 or Euro-DOCSIS 2.0
(A-TDMA and S-CDMA) ready cable modem with the following features:
•Speed: much faster than dialup or ISDN service
•Convenience: supports USB 1.1 and Ethernet; both can be used simulta-
neously
•Compatibility: supports tiered data services (if offered by your cable
company)
What’s in the Box?
Make sure you have the following items before proceeding. Call your cable company
for assistance if anything is missing.
•Cable Modem
•AC Adapter
•Quick Installation Guide
•End User’s License Agreement
•USB Cable
•Ethernet Cable
•CD-ROM
What’s on the CD?
The CD provides the following items:
•User’s Guide
•USB Drivers (Windows 98SE/ME/2000/XP)
•USB Uninstall Utility
•Adobe Acrobat Reader
•ARRIS Contact Information
•End User License Agreement

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Items You Need
If you are installing the Cable Modem yourself, make sure you have the following
items on hand before continuing:
• Cable modem package : see What’s in the Box? for a list of items in the
package.
• Coaxial cable (coax) : as shown in the picture to the left, this is a thin ca-
ble with a connector on each end. It is the same kind of wire used to connect
your television for cable TV. You can buy coax from any electronics retailer
and many discount stores; make sure it has connectors on both ends.
(There are two types of connectors, slip-on and screw-on; the screw-on
connectors are best for use with your Cable Modem.) The coax should be
long enough to reach from your Cable Modem to the nearest cable outlet.
• Splitter (optional) : provides an extra cable connection by splitting a single
outlet into two. You may need a splitter if you have a TV already connected
to the cable outlet that you want to use. You can buy a splitter from any
electronics retailer and most discount stores; you may also need a short
piece of coaxial cable (with connectors); use it to connect the splitter to the
cable outlet and then connect the Cable Modem and TV to the splitter.
Note: A splitter effectively cuts the signal in half and sends each half to its two
outputs. Using several splitters in a line may slow down or stop Internet
communications, or cause snowy TV pictures.
• Information packet : your cable company should furnish you with a packet
containing information about your service and how to set it up. Read this
information carefully and contact your cable company if you have any ques-
tions.
Coax Cable

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System Requirements
The Touchstone Cable Modem operates with most computers. The following de-
scribes requirements for each operating system; see the documentation for your
system for details on enabling and configuring networking.
To use the Cable Modem, you need DOCSIS high-speed Internet service from your
cable company.
Windows
Ethernet connection: Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 98 SE (Second Edition),
Windows ME, Windows 2000, or Windows XP
USB connection: Windows 98 SE (Second Edition), Windows ME, Windows 2000, or
Windows XP
MacOS
Ethernet connection only: System 7.5 to MacOS 9.2 (Open Transport recommend-
ed) or MacOS X
Linux/other Unix
Ethernet connection only: Hardware drivers, TCP/IP, and DHCP must be enabled in
the kernel

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Ethernet or USB?
There are two ways to connect your computer (or other equipment) to the Cable
Modem. The following will help you decide which is best for you:
Ethernet
Ethernet is a standard method of connecting two or more computers into a Local
Area Network (LAN). Use the Ethernet connection if your PC has built-in Ethernet
hardware, or does not use Windows, or you want to share the Cable Modem con-
nection with several computers.
Note: To connect two or more computers to the Ethernet port, you need a hub
or broadband router (available at computer retailers).
The Cable Modem package comes with a 6-foot (1.9m) Ethernet cable (the connec-
tors look like wide telephone connectors); you can purchase more cables if neces-
sary at a computer retailer. If you are connecting the Cable Modem directly to a PC,
or to an Ethernet hub or broadband router with a cross-over switch, ask for
Category 5 (CAT5) straight-through cable. If you are connecting the Cable Modem
to an Ethernet hub or broadband router without a crossover switch, ask for a Cat-
egory 5 crossover cable.
USB
USB (Universal Serial Bus) is meant for connecting a variety of accessories, such
as keyboards, mice, printers, and communications devices (including cable mo-
dems) to a single PC. Use the USB connection if you have only one computer, and
the computer is using a Windows operating system (Windows 98 Second Edition or
later), and has no built-in Ethernet hardware.
The Cable Modem package comes with a 5-foot (1.6m) USB cable; you can pur-
chase a longer cable—up to 14-foot (4.25m)—at a computer retailer. Ask for a USB
A/B cable —it has a long narrow connector on one end (to connect to the PC) and
a square connector on the other end (to connect to the Cable Modem).
Both
If you have two or more computers, you can connect one computer to the Cable
Modem’s USB port and one or more to the Ethernet port. To connect two or more
computers to the Ethernet port, you need a hub or broadband router (available at
computer retailers).
For more information about connecting two or more computers, contact your cable
service provider.
Ethernet Cable
USB Cable

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What About Security?
Having a high-speed, always-on connection to the Internet requires a certain
amount of responsibility to other Internet users—including the need to maintain a
reasonably secure system. While no system is 100% secure, you can use the fol-
lowing tips to enhance your system’s security:
•Keep your operating system updated with the latest security patches. Run
the system update utility at least weekly.
•Keep your email program updated with the latest security patches. In addi-
tion, avoid opening email containing attachments, or opening files sent
through chat rooms, whenever possible.
•Install a virus checker and keep it updated.
•Avoid providing web or file-sharing services over your Cable Modem. Be-
sides certain vulnerability problems, most cable companies prohibit running
servers on consumer-level accounts and may suspend your account for vi-
olating your terms of service.
•Use the cable company’s mail servers for sending email.
•Avoidusing proxy software unless you are certain that it is not open for
abuse by other Internet users (some are shipped open by default). Crimi-
nals can take advantage of open proxies to hide their identity when breaking
into other computers or sending spam. If you have an open proxy, your ca-
ble company may suspend your account to protect the rest of the network.
•If you connect your Cable Modem to a wireless LAN, make sure you enable
security and encryption on the wireless hub (for the same reason that you
should run only secured proxies). Consult the documentation and technical
support of the wireless equipment provider for help.

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Installing and Connecting Your Cable
Modem
Before you start, make sure that:
•You have contacted your cable company and verified that they provide data
service using standard DOCSIS technology.
•You have all the Items You Need.
•Cable and power outlets are available near the PC. If a cable outlet is not
conveniently located, your cable company can install a new one.
Getting Service
Before trying to use your new Cable Modem, contact your local cable company to
establish an Internet account. When you call, have the following information ready:
•the Cable Modem serial number and MAC address (printed on a sticker on
the bottom of the Cable Modem)
•the model number of the Cable Modem
Save this information for future use. In addition, you should ask your cable com-
pany the following questions:
•Do you have any special system requirements or files that I need to down-
load after I am connected?
•When can I start using my Cable Modem?
•Do I need a user ID or password to access the Internet or my e-mail?

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Front Panel
The front of the Cable Modem has the following indicators and controls:
ALink : flickers when sending or receiving data to the PC over the Ethernet or
USB connection; on steadily otherwise.
BOnline : blinks when the Cable Modem is disconnected from the Internet;
on when the Cable Modem is connected to the Internet.
CUS : blinks when sending data on the cable system; on steadily otherwise.
DDS : blinks when receiving data on the cable system; on steadily otherwise.
EPower : blinks when the Cable Modem is setting up; on steadily when ready
for use.
C
a
bl
e
M
o
d
em
F
ron
t
P
ane
l
A B C D E

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Rear Panel
The rear of the Cable Modem has the following connectors and controls:
A Power: plug the AC adapter in here.
B USB connector: for connecting the Cable Modem directly to a PC.
C Ethernet connector: for connecting the Cable Modem to a PC or home net-
work LAN.
DReset button: resets the Cable Modem as if you disconnected power. Use a
pointed non-metallic object to press this button.
E Cable: plug the coax cable in here.
Cable Modem Rear Panel
B C D E
A

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Mounting the Cable Modem
You can either mount the Cable Modem on a wall or place it on a desktop. For wall-
mount applications, you can mount the Cable Modem with the indicators facing up-
ward (vertical) or to the size (horizontal).
Tools and Materials
For wall-mounted installations, make sure you have the following tools and mate-
rials before proceeding:
•screwdriver (flat-blade or Phillips, depending on what kind of screws you
use)
•wall-mount template (included with the Cable Modem Quick Installation
Guide)
•transparent tape (for temporarily securing the mounting template to the
wall)
•for mounting on plywood or studs: two #6 (or #8) x 38.1 mm (1.5 inches)
self tapping screws; the head diameter should be approximately 6 mm
(0.25 inches)
•for mounting on drywall: two 1.5 inch (35mm or 40mm) anchor bolts
Location
Always position the Cable Modem:
•within 1.3 m (4 feet) of an AC outlet. The power cord must reach the outlet
without stretching and without adding extension cords.
•near a cable outlet (to avoid long cable runs).
Note: When mounting the Cable Modem on drywall, try to position the Cable
Modem so at least one of the screws are fastened to a stud. This may
prevent the Cable Modem from pulling out of the wall in the future.
To prevent overheating your Cable Modem, do not block the ventilation
holes on the sides of the unit.

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Instructions
Wall-mounting instructions
1 Position the mounting template on the surface where you intend to mount
the Cable Modem and secure in place with transparent tape.
2 Drill holes through the template in the specified locations for the mounting
screws. After drilling holes, remove the template from the surface.
3 Drive both of the screws (or anchor bolts) into the wall. Leave a gap of about
6 mm (0.250 inches) between the screw head and the wall.
4 Orient the Cable Modem with the indicator lights facing up or right, as de-
sired. Slip both mounting slots (in the back of the Cable Modem) over the
screws, then slide the case down until the narrow end of the keyhole slot
contacts the screw shaft.
5 Proceed to Connecting the Cable Modem.
Desktop mounting instructions
1 Position the Cable Modem so that:
•air flows freely around it
•the back faces the nearest wall
•it will not fall to the floor if bumped or moved
2 If you want to stand the Cable Modem up on its side, pull the oval foot out
slightly, twist the foot (as shown), and place the Cable Modem in the desired
location.
3 Proceed to Connecting the Cable Modem.
Step 1 Step 2
Step 3 Step 4

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Connecting the Cable Modem
1 Power up your computer and insert the CD-ROM included with your modem.
2 Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the cable outlet or splitter, and the
other end to the Cable Modem’s Cable connector. Tighten the connections
by hand.
Note: Improperly tightened coaxial cable connectors can cause data errors,
making your connection slower.
3 Insert the plug from the AC adapter into the Power connector on the Cable
Modem.
4 Insert the power cord into a convenient AC outlet.
The Power light on the front of the Cable Modem should light up, then start
flashing. See Troubleshooting if the Power light does not turn on.
5 After connecting the coax cable and power, proceed as needed:
•Making Ethernet Connections
•Making USB Connections
Note: Do not connect a single computer to both the Ethernet and USB ports.
Making Ethernet Connections
6 Connect one end of the Ethernet cable to the port on the back of the Cable
Modem labeled “Ethernet 10/100,” and the other end to the Ethernet port
on a computer, hub, or broadband router.
Note: If you are connecting to a computer, use the Ethernet cable included
in the Cable Modem package unless it is too short. Longer Ethernet cables
are available from any computer retailer.
Making USB Connections
7 Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port on the computer, and the
other end to the USB port on the back of the Cable Modem.
Your PC should detect the Cable Modem and begin installing the drivers. See
Installing USB Drivers on Your PC for driver installation details.
R
ear
P
ane
l
APower
BUSB
CEthernet
DReset button
ECable
B C D E
A

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Installing USB Drivers on Your PC
When you plug the Cable Modem into the PC’s USB port, Windows automatically
detects the hardware and begins installing the USB drivers.
Requirements
Make sure you have the following before attempting to install the USB drivers:
•PC with:
—CD-ROM drive
—at least one free USB port
—one of: Windows 98SE, Windows 2000, Windows ME, or Windows XP
(Windows 95 and Windows NT are not supported)
—ARRIS USB Driver CD
Note: Windows XP does not require the installation of USB drivers from the
CD.
•USB of appropriate length (a cable is included in your Cable Modem pack-
age)
Installation Instructions
Select the link for your operating system to see the installation instructions.
•Installing USB Drivers on Windows 98SE
•Installing USB Drivers on Windows 2000
•Installing USB Drivers on Windows XP
•Installing USB Drivers on Windows ME

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Installing USB Drivers on Windows 98SE
Follow these steps to install USB drivers on Windows 98 Second Edition.
Note: Always perform these steps in the order shown to minimize possible
problems. For example, if you plug in the USB cable before inserting the
CD, Windows may install the wrong driver.
1 Make sure the Cable Modem is on (the Power light should be on). If not,
connect the AC adapter as described in Connecting the Cable Modem.
2Insert the CD that came with the Cable Modem package into the CD-ROM
drive.
3Plug the appropriate end of the USB cable into the Cable Modem and the
other end into the computer’s USB port.
The following window appears, indicating that the PC has detected a new
USB device:

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4Wait for the system to start the Add New Hardware Wizard and display the
following window (there may be a short delay):
5Select “Search for the best driver” and click the Next button.
The wizard displays a list of search options:

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6Make sure the CD-ROM option is selected (checked), then click the Next
button.
The wizard searches the specified locations, then displays the location and
name of the appropriate driver.
Note: If the wizard can not find the CD drive, and the CD is inserted prop-
erly, follow these steps:
a. On the Windows desktop, open “My Computer” and note the letter of the
Compact Disc (or CD-ROM) drive (on most systems, the CD drive is at
D: or E:)
b. Return to the Found New Hardware Wizard, and click the Back button.
The wizard displays the previous screen, shown in step 5.
c. Select “Specify a Location,” then choose the drive letter that corresponds
to the CD drive from the menu.
d. Click the Next button.
You should now see the screen shown above. If not, contact your cable
company for help.