What is Comcast trying to do when it's "optimizing" my cable modem?

Question

About a month ago, I replaced my Comcast cable modem with a Motorola Surfboard SB5101.

Recently I got a letter with Comcast that states...

There won't be a charge for this service.and it says to call them to report a CSG PROBLEM CODE #37.

It also has two checkboxes that are checked, one being LOW INPUT LEVEL (Less than -8 dB) scribbled with the number "-13" next to it, and the other being HIGH TRANSMIT LEVEL (51 or more) with "55" scribbled next to it.

Taken verbatim from the letter...

In conjunction with our signal monitoring equipment and field test conducted in your area, our technicians have determined that there is a problem with the cable signal strength (Too much or not enough signal) within your home that supplies the High Speed Internet (modem) or Comcast Digital Voice (emTA). This usually has to do with the way the cable is split to serve this signal to the various devices (television, modem etc.) within your home.

Since we have determined that the issue is within your home, you will need to be present in order for us to complete the work and optimize the signal to your modem/eMTA so that we may maintain a quality product and ensure your satisfaction with our services.

It has always been our policy to provide the highest quality service to our customers. By having services properly installed with the appropriate connectors, spliiters, and coaxial cable, we can ensure that these standards are met.

Is Comcast trying to "optimize" my modem to a slower speed to fit within my plan? Is this an issue that needs to be addressed immediately? Please help!

Note: I have never experienced any disconnects while surfing the web or playing games ever since I replaced the Comcast modem with my own.

Answer 1

Ignore Comcast's letter it is total BS.I am an Engineer and their letter is a joke  The -8dB is your lower limits the 55 Db is noise to signal strength your signal strentgh is EXCELLENT cause of your Modem do not let them in to drop it down you have a right to put any surfeboard or modem you want. Also Look at your connection speed if you know how to it is relatively easy. If your downloads or Web surfing is not slow you are just fine. Ignore Comcast, and if they persist tell them you will charge them from making you take off work for their faulty equipment incoming signal, which they will not agree to. LOL Just tell them in short term should they call you can not miss work I am busy goodbye. It will be dropped.

Answer 2

Sounds like Comcast (used to be in my area until I moved) is trying to get you to use their equipment as it's not as fast as what you have.  Just my guess.  I only had TV with them.