Comcast introduced a super fast internet connection technology at CES this year that was almost over shadowed by the Gizmodo brouhaha. How fast is super fast? Their new DOCSIS3.0 technology is said to transport 160 megabits of data per second over cable internet.

What is 160 megabits per second in real terms? Think of downloading an entire movie in only 4 minutes. If Comcast can truly deliver that rate of data transfer, it should boost their share of the Internet market considerably. Comcast already rolled out their partnership with Tivo this year in New England, with mixed results.

The first hurdle Comcast faces it the quality of its infrastructure. The reason for the mixed reception of Comcast in New England and others areas is a combination of too-high prices and poor line quality. When Comcast bought out Adelphia they did not upgrade Adelphia’s older cable lines, causing poor service in many areas.

With this lack of upgrades in parts of the country that would be most interested in having access to super fast Internet and quick television downloads of movies and other content, Comcast may not be able to keep pace with their own innovation. It will be interesting to watch the roll of of DOCSIS3.0 in 2008 and 2009 and see if it is a resounding success or if it falls flat on its face.

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Entry was posted on Sunday, January 13th, 2008 at 1:24 pm under Internet, Technology.

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