About this FAQ:

0.1 - Who publishes this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document?

This FAQ is an official publication of Campbell River Television Association and is maintained by the Data Services staff.

0.2 - Where can I get it?

The OFFICIAL version of this FAQ always resides at:
Web: http://www.crtv.net/crtv_cab.htm
E-Mail: Send requests to jim.forsyth@crtv.net (please specify if you want html or word version)

Should you acquire a copy from any other source, please discard it and retrieve the latest copy from one of the above sources.

0.3 - How often is this FAQ updated?

This FAQ is updated when new questions are asked or major sections of the FAQ change.

Last updated: November 22, 2006

1.0 - About CMS (Cable Modem Service)

1.1 - What is CMS?

CMS is Campbell River Television Association's high speed Cable Modem Service. It offers you access to state-of-the-art online services by providing the home with high speed Internet over the cable system at over 100 times that of traditional telephone modems. The latest in Internet content is delivered directly to your desktop at blazing speeds and you are provided with full web, FTP and gaming functionality. You are always connected. No dialing in. You can even check your e-mail every 5 minutes with no additional hassles.

1.2 - How fast is the Internet via CMS?

The CMS service will allow you to experience the Internet at up to 6 mbps downloading and 1.5 mbps uploading. These speeds represent an increase of over 100 times that of the latest and fastest telephone modem and 4 times faster than ADSL. While CMS can not guarantee the performance of any specific site on the Internet, the combination of high speed modem and the latest in caching technology transforms the Internet experience. The World Wide Wait is over.

1.2.2 - What do you mean by a caching or proxy server?

Caching is a technology that is used to speed up the Internet experience. We have a powerful machine at the CMS Network Management Center whose purpose it is to fulfill web page requests in the shortest possible time. It works like this:

You request a web page
The caching server checks its local disk to see if it has a copy
If it does, it delivers it to you
If it doesn't it goes out on the Internet, loads the page, transparently delivers it to you, and keeps a copy for the next time someone asks for it.
All of this happens transparently and is imperceptible to you as a user. This means that even where there are severe traffic jams on the Internet, you can still experience excellent speed.

1.2.2.2 - Wait a second, what if the page I am loading is time sensitive and continually updated, like a stock report or news headlines? How can I be assured that I always have the latest information?

In a case like this, you have two options. If you want to ensure that you have the latest revision of the page you can simply click on your reload button, forcing the caching server to request the page again from the Internet. Your other option, for pages you access on a regular basis, is to tell your browser to always bypass the caching server for that particular site. This will result in longer loading times.

1.2.2.4 - I use online banking... does the proxy server cache my banking information?

Online banking is done over a secure connection between you and your bank. Any information transmitted over a connection of this type would not be cached. The exact connection being used may vary depending on the bank. We recommend that you check with the help desk of your bank about the online banking software you are using.

1.2.2.5 - What about file transfers; does the caching server do anything to improve FTP performance?

If you are downloading through your web browser then the caching server also stores a copy of the files you download. This means that if you want to download the latest levels for a game, or the latest update to your spreadsheet or word processor, and someone before you requested it, you don't have to wait for it to come across the Internet. It will come directly from the Network Management Center to your desktop.

1.2.3 - Is CMS a full service ISP? What does that include?

No, Campbell River Television relies on CRCable and Uniserve to provide support.

1.3 - 24 Hours a Day, 7 days a week, You mean I'm always connected?

When you are connected to the Internet with CMS, your computer is always connected to the Internet, as long as it is turned on. This means no more dialing up to connect, no more busy signals, no more waiting until the middle of the night to have a reasonable Internet experience. With CMS you always have access to the Internet. If you wish you can even have your computer check for e-mail every 10 minutes, or so, without incurring any additional fees.

1.4 - What can I do with the increased speed?

There is virtually no limit to the opportunities that high speed access provide. There has been an explosion in the number of exciting new applications that depend on high speed network access. Today you can enjoy things like streaming video and audio, online gaming with your friends down the street and around the world, downloading multi-megabyte files in seconds, downloading multiple files at the same time, web browsing at high speeds even during large downloads.

1.5 - Are there any applications I can't use?

All standard TCP/IP applications will function, ensuring compatibility with current and future internet software.

While you are welcome and encouraged to run gaming servers, you are not allowed to run FTP, Web, IRC or other servers.

* You can not run proxy servers such as WinGate or WinProxy. These are considered servers and will result in the deactivation of your modem. The cable modem service price is based on one machine utilizing the network. Connecting multiple machines is not allowed under our standard residential plan .

If you wish to run a server you are encouraged to talk to our Corporate sales staff. They will work with you to assess your needs and select a solution that fits our bandwidth and cost requirements.

You can use Web, FTP and IRC clients, you just can't run servers.

1.6 - Why is CMS the best choice in high speed access?

There are a number of reasons that make CMS the best choice for high speed Internet access. Just some of these reasons are mentioned below.

• It's fast! The fastest service available in Campbell River for the comparable cost.
• You're always connected.
• You get quality phone support AND on site technical support if there is a network issue.
• Your phone line isn't tied up.
• There are no time limits.
• It does not interfere with your phone wiring or alarm systems.
• It is Digital Phone (VoIP) compatible. You may find ways to save huge dollars on your phone services!
  

1.7 - Is CMS available in my neighbourhood?

YES! If you live in Campbell River or the surrounding area which is serviced by CRTV.

1.7.2 - I live in a multi-unit building, will this create any problems if I want to subscribe to the service?

Any work that is done to a building that you do not own, IE drilling or stapling, or installations on the outside of a condominium, require a letter of permission to be signed by someone authorized to speak for the building owner. If you do not own your place of residence, please print off the Letter of Permission, and bring into CRTV when booking your installation.

Some apartment buildings are "Loop wired" in a manner that makes it impossible to offer the CMS service. The internal cable wiring in these buildings is the property of the building owner. We are willing to work with the building owner to rewire the building so CMS can be offered.

1.7.3 - What do you mean by "loop wired"?

There are two ways to wire a building.

The first, preferable way, is known as "home run" this means that for every unit in a building there is a dedicated piece of cable connecting each customer directly to the cable system. This ensures that others aren't polluting your signal with noise and interference, and it means we have more flexibility in the services we can offer you.

A "loop wire "building is wired from unit to unit in one continuous circuit. This means that everyone is connected to everyone else. Noise and interference from anywhere becomes a serious issue and it limits the services we can offer you. We can not offer data services in a loop wired building because it is not possible to maintain signal levels required for the equipment to operate.

1.8 - What are the system requirements?

Below are the minimum requirements for CMS.

• OS Win95 MacOS 7.5+
• CPU 486 DX4/100 PowerPC, 68030, 68040
• RAM 16 MB 16 MB
• DISK 60 MB* 60 MB*
• Sound 16 Bit Built In
• Video SVGA Built In Colour
• E-Net Free ISA Slot Built in (Must be 10BaseT connection)
• CDROM 2X or higher 2X or higher

*60MB of disk space is needed only if you require/request MS Internet Explorer to be installed on your computer.

1.8.2 - What are the recommended specifications?

Basically, the faster your PC the better. Ideally you will have a Pentium equivalent or better, 64 MB of RAM and high quality video. The applications and sites you find on the Internet are always pushing the envelope and the more processing power you have the better your Internet experience will be.

1.8.3 - My system does not meet your minimum specifications, can I still purchase the service?

You are welcome to purchase the service but we make absolutely no guarantees about the speed you will experience and whether or not any given software application will function to your expectations. This is a high powered service and it requires a high powered PC.

1.9 - What is included with the CMS service?

The CMS service includes 24 hour access to the network and free telephone support. In addition we are working with a number of local, national and international content providers to bring you the latest in new products and services.

1.9.2 - If I choose to go with CMS can I keep the e-mail address I have at my current Support Provider or will I get a new address?

This really depends on the policies at your current Support Provider. Some Support Providers will forward your old address for up to one year free of charge, others will discontinue your e-mail address as soon as you cancel your account. If it is critical that you phase your old address out over time, it may be a good idea to reduce your current account to the minimum monthly billing for two or three months while you update your associates with your new address.

1.9.3 - What will my new e-mail address look like?

Your new e-mail address will be in this format:
Username username@crcable.net or username@uniserve.com depending on which Support Provider you choose. Where "username" is a unique identifier that you choose that is between 3 and 16 characters.

1.9.4 - Can I put business pages on my personal web space?

The web space provided with your account is normally for personal home pages, hobbies and general interest sites. CRTV does not monitor web content but you should check with your Support Provider regarding their Acceptable Use Policies.

1.9.5 - Can I use my current modem with CMS?

Cable modems are unique devices that work on the cable TV network and are not compatible with traditional telephone modems. At this time cable modems from different companies are not compatible with each other. For this reason combined with the sheer cost of the modems themselves we have decided to provide the cable modems to our customers as part of the CMS service agreement.

1.10.01 - CRTV used to provide services to Island Internet. Is that service still available?

On February 20, 2006, CRTV received notification that Island Internet had entered into receivership. In response to this, CRTV notified Island Internet that the agreement to partner with them in the delivery of Cable Internet would be terminated effective March 1, 2006. Subscribers with Island Internet High Speed Cable were required to convert their services to CRCable or Uniserve prior to that date.

1.10.02 - Do I still have a choice in support providers?

You may choose between CRCable and Uniserve.There are some differences between the support providers, primarily in the area of billing. CRCable orders can be taken directly by a CRTV CSR and added to your CRTV cable bill. Uniserve bills separately for their portion of the service.Both support providers offer excellent service so the choice will be a matter of personal preference.

1.10.03 Is there any reason to choose one over the other?

Both Support Providers have an agreement with CRTV to jointly provide Cable Modem Service. The ultimate choice is your own.

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1.10.4 - Can I fax with my cable modem?

In order to send FAX transmissions you must use a telephone line. For this reason it is not possible to send fax transmission over the cable modem.

1.10.5 - Do I have to remove/disconnect my telephone modem?

No, as long as you have a free IRQ and expansion slot for your Ethernet card, there is no need to remove your telephone modem.

1.10.6 - If I want to send a fax do I need to disconnect the cable modem?

No, the fax portion of your telephone modem will operate completely independently of your cable modem. Feel free to use it in the same manner that you always have. There is no need to unplug it from the telephone line just because you have a cable modem.

What Does it Cost and How Do I Get It?

1.10 - How much does CMS cost?

Campbell River Television Association Subscribers will be able to access the Internet through CMS for a flat rate, all inclusive monthly fee as low as $39.90* (plus taxes). This all inclusive fee includes the use of a CRTV cable modem, network access, unlimited use and amazing speeds.

For corporate settings, you may benefit from a different package. If you have special office needs or if you will be doing a lot of data transfer, please contact customer service at CRCable or at Uniserve.

1.10.2 - Is there an installation fee?

CRTV has a one time fee which is due at the time of installation and is dependent on the requirements of the customer. A standard installation is $35 + tax. (effective June 1, 2002). A CRTV technician will ensure that your service address is CMS-ready and will deliver and install the modem. The configuration of your computer or network device would be done through your ISP.

1.10.2.1 - How Does The Referral Program Work?

CMS offers a referral program that offers a free month of service ($39.90 for a CRCable referral). For each new customer you refer to us, you receive a one-time credit per referral on your account. To earn your credit, all you need to do is fill out the form at www.crcable.net This will ensure you receive your credit.

Due to split invoicing, Uniserve High Speed customers are not currently eligible for the referral program.

(The credit for referral is applied to the referror account when the referee has been active and in good standing for 90 days.)

1.10.2 - What is included with the Installation?

A new cable outlet installed at your PC (if required)

1.11 - Why is CMS more expensive than a traditional dial-up?

Quality. CMS is not about being the cheapest option for Internet access, and it is not meant for everyone. CRTV has invested heavily in the latest in technology and the best, most experienced staff to ensure that your Internet service is the best in the market. If you require one of the fastest, most stable, easiest to use and best supported products in the market CMS is for you. If you value your time and want to really experience what the Internet has to offer then CMS is for you. If you want and need the highest quality network access available, then CMS is for you.

Convenience. With CMS you can say good-bye to busy signals forever. If you depend on your Internet connection and need access to it any time day or night then you need CMS.

Value. Most traditional ISPs have monthly time limits and once you exceed those limits you are billed for additional time. With CMS you can use as much time online as you require for one low monthly fee. No more watching the meter, or forgoing some important tasks because you will get hit with higher bills. No more waiting for a new month to roll around so you can continue to enjoy a service you are paying for. Because CMS utilizes the cable TV network for 100% of it's traffic you never need to tie up your phone. No more waiting for the phone, or missing important calls. Or if you had a second line installed just for the Internet, you can now save that monthly expense! With CMS you have the freedom to enjoy the Internet everyday.

1.12 - I want it; how do I sign up?

Phone our sales and support staff at CRTV and they will take down the necessary information required to sign on with CMS. They will schedule the installation and ensure that you are online as soon as possible.

1.12.2 - I want to have a look before I buy, is there somewhere I can see it before I agree to buy?

Campbell River Library, NIEFS (North Island Employment Foundation), SD72 (School District 72), CR Family Services, Chamber of Commerce, RCMP, City Hall, CRTV Office, Volunteer Center, NI Advocacy, Arts Resource Center, CR & Island Resource Center, Women's Sexual Assault Center, John Perkins Memorial Housing Society, Visitor Information Center, CRCN, Discovery Coast Greenways Land Trust, CR Beacon Club, CR Festivals, Tidemark Theatre Company, CR Rotary Club, CR Museum, CR Film Commission, NI Aids Coalition, United Way, IMS (Island Microsystems), and Odyssey Computers.

1.13 - Do I have to sign up for a minimum term?

With CMS there are no term contracts. The minimum term of service is one billing period (one month).

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2.0 - Let's get technical

2.1 - Do I need to have a new cable installed on my street?

No. In the past number of years, Campbell River Television Association has completed a system wide upgrade of our core system components right down to the cable that goes from the pole to your home. Unless something has occurred to damage these cables there should be virtually no work required outside.

2.2 - My TV is in the living room and my PC is in the den, how do I get the cable from the living room to the den?

The cable installer will install a new outlet at your PC to be used specifically for your cable modem. If you currently have an outlet in a convenient location the installer will test the outlet to ensure that proper signal levels are being met and that the cable modem will operate properly.

2.2.2 - If I decide to cancel the service, what happens to the cable outlet?

If you choose to discontinue your service, return the cable modem to CRTV and contact your ISP to let them know.

2.3 - How does the cable modem interface with my computer?

The Cable Modem's themselves are external units. They use the internal Network Card to interface with your computer. The TV cable plugs into the cable modem and the cable modem plugs into your PC via an industry standard 10BaseT Ethernet cable. The cable modem Ethernet port acts the same as a port on an Ethernet hub, a straight through Ethernet cable is used.

2.3.2 - Can I plug the cable modem into a hub and connect more than 1 PC?

Networking devices are very common. Many routers include firewall capabilities and, as such, are encouraged. You may connect more than one computer but please be aware that you are responsible for all of the data transfer (in and outbound) to your service address.

2.4 - Can I watch TV and use CMS at the same time?

Yes! The data signals utilized by CMS are carried above and below the cable TV video signals and the two do not affect each other.

2.5 - If I have TV reception problems, will this affect my CMS service?

That depends if the problem with the video signal is at the source, or somewhere in the transmission path other than the cable system. If the problem is not related to the cable system then no, it shouldn't affect your CMS signal.

If, however, the problem is caused by a down line, a cut cable, or something local to the cable TV physical network, then it may affect your CMS service. If your modem ever goes "off-line" or you are unable to access the network please contact the support staff at 923-8899.

2.6.1 - I was told that the more people on the system the slower it will get because it is shared, is this true?

This is a discussion that has champions on both sides. Instead of talking about the theory of network throughput, we encourage you to experience our product first hand and make your own decisions about what is promised and what is delivered. Our base speeds are set so much higher than other high speed options that we are sure you will enjoy CMS as much as our many happy subscribers.

To get a hands on demonstration of the service and the real speeds you will experience, visit one of our local sites, listed in section 1.13.2

2.7 - How do I acquire my TCP/IP settings?

All of your TCP/IP information, including your IP address, netmask, gateway and DNS servers is set through your ISP. Please check with them for configuration instructions.

2.7.2 - Do I have a real IP address?

Please check with your ISP for this information.

2.7.3 - Is it a static IP address?

A static IP address can be obtained through your ISP. Depending on your level of service, this may or may not be included in your package. Please confirm with your ISP.

2.7.4 - Can I pay more and get a permanent static IP address?

Static IP addresses are available through your ISP.

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3.0 - CMS Software Questions

3.1 - Can I use any TCP/IP stack with CMS?

Only the TCP/IP stack that comes with Windows 95/98/00/ME/XP and the one that comes with MacOS are directly supported by CMS

3.2 - I would prefer to use a different browser. Will it work?

Yes, you are welcome to use the software that you prefer. All standard TCP/IP software will function with CMS.Support of new software is at the discretion of your ISP.

3.3 - Can I use telnet to access my CMS account from elsewhere on the Internet

No, for security reasons telnet access to your account is not currently possible.

Most ISP's and mail providers offer webmail and mail forwarding services. We suggest a trial run prior to travelling to allow you to become comfortable with the option you choose.

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4.0 - CMS Network Security Questions

4.1 - Is there anyway that someone can intercept my data in transit while on your cable system?

The cable modems utilized to provide the CMS service offer the latest in encryption and they utilize a DES algorithm with continuous key regeneration to ensure that data is scrambled between your home and our Network Management Center.

4.2 - Can other people access files on my computer?

The cable modems used in our network communicate using TCP/IP network protocol. All other protocols are filtered out.

All high speed connections should consider fire-walling their system through the use of routers or hardware or software firewalls. Much information regarding firewall protection is available online and through local computer retail and repair outlets.

All customers should remember that the use of passwords is recommended as an additional level of security. Passwords should be at least seven digits long using letters and numbers.

Customers who are not networking their computers should remember to turn off their File and Print Sharing.

File sharing is often innocently turned on as a result of visiting music and movie download sites.Outbound traffic is often a good hint that this may have happened. For more information on file sharing, please contact technical support of your support provider (CRCable or Uniserve).

4.3 - Do you censor or control what customers can access?

We do not censor the Internet in any way. We merely provide an access point.

4.3.2 - How can I control what my children see on the Internet?

If you are concerned about what your children might be doing on the Internet then you should spend some time with them and set your own rules. There is software available to assist you in managing what your children see on the Internet, but due to it's evolving nature there is no 100% complete solution.

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5.0 - Additional Information

5.1 - I have more questions, who can I ask?

Our aim is to make this FAQ the most complete resource on the CMS service and to that end we are always seeking questions that we haven't answered here. If you have a question or require more information please feel free to contact us either by e-mail jim.forsyth@crtv.net or by telephone at 923-8899.