Cable Internet uses a single coaxial cable to transfer data. Cable Internet service providers (ISPs) use different frequencies on the same cable for uploading and downloading data. Upstream frequencies are dedicated to uploading data, while downstream frequencies are dedicated to downloading data. Diplex filter frequencies help separate the upstream from the downstream frequencies to prevent interference. The following illustration is an example of how these frequencies are divided in current (low-split) technology.
Low-split
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/CHP%20Products/Cable%20Modems/low-split.png)
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Upstream /CHP%20Products/Cable%20Modems/BlockGrey.png)
Diplex Filter /CHP%20Products/Cable%20Modems/BlockBlue.png)
Downstream
Mid/high-split technology expands the total amount of frequencies available for transmitting data, which means that the same cable can transfer more data faster.
Think of upstream and downstream as water pipes. The number of frequencies used for each is how big the pipes are. More frequencies means that the pipe is bigger and can move more water faster. People today are uploading more data than ever due to video conferencing, gaming, and uploading video content to sites like TikTok. Mid/high-split technologies allow you do to more now and also future-proof your network.
Your modem and ISP must both support a frequency split for you to be able to use it.
The following illustration demonstrates the difference between low- (also called sub), mid-, and high-splits.
Low-split
Mid-Split
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High-Split
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Upstream Diplex Filter Downstream
Frequency divisions not to scale.
Low-split technology
Used by most cable modems and ISPs. It has the lowest number of frequencies dedicated to upstream data.
Mid-split technology
Used by newer cable modems and some ISPs. It has a greater number of frequencies dedicated to uploading data and more frequencies overall than low-split technology.
High-split technology
Used by only the most recent cable modems, including the
NETGEAR CM3000. This technology is not currently used by any ISPs but is expected to be used in the future.