This is Cable

FAQ

• What’s a cable company doing in the phone business?
• How does it work?
• Why switch from my traditional phone service?
• What makes it different from other digital or "VOIP" phone services?
• Do I need a new telephone?
• Can I call people who have traditional phone service?
• Can I stay online while I make calls?

What’s a cable company doing in the phone business?

Cable companies are changing the face of telephone service in the U.S., thanks to new federal laws designed to spur competition. In fact, cable companies have invested more than $129 billion since 2002 to upgrade their systems and networks to accommodate Voice service, along with high-speed Internet service and new digital television features. Already, more than three-fourths of all U.S. homes have access to Cable Digital Voice service. And more than 24 million of them now are connected to Cable Digital Voice service.

How does it work?

Cable Digital Voice operates over the same high-capacity, high-speed broadband network your cable company uses to deliver television channels and high-speed Internet service. Digital Voice service from cable is provided through a phone jack located on the side of specially equipped cable modems. From there, it connects to any standard household telephone jack through your existing phone wires. You can select Digital Voice for every one of your phone jacks, and use phones throughout your house.

Why switch from my traditional phone service?

Competition and choice. As cable companies introduce Digital Voice service across a growing number of cities, there’s finally a fresh choice in telephone service. Cable Digital Voice service offers extremely competitive and affordable rates not only for basic calling, but long-distance service and value-added features like caller ID, voice mail, international calling and more.

What makes it different from other digital or Internet phone services?

Many telephone companies, Internet service providers and broadband companies offer a type of phone service that relies on the public Internet. In contrast, cable companies carry telephone calls over their own, privately maintained networks, so voice quality and security can be assured. That means you’ll enjoy clear, reliable phone calls. There are also important distinctions surrounding emergency calls. Cable companies provide enhanced 911 (known as e911) connections that automatically provide emergency responders the name, phone number and home address of the account holder.

Do I need a new telephone?

No. Your Digital Voice service from cable works with any standard touch-tone phone, from cordless handsets to wall-mounted telephones. Digital Voice service also works with fax machines, answering machines and home-alarm systems.

Can I call people who have traditional phone service?

Yes. Your Cable Digital Voice service lets you call any number you like, whether that number is served by a cable company or a traditional telephone company.

Can I stay online while I make calls?

Yes. Although the technology behind Cable Digital Voice service involves a special cable modem, it doesn’t operate on the same frequencies as your high-speed Internet service. You can talk on the phone while you’re online at any time.