[JefW]

My modem connects to my computer - Windows XP w/DSL connection - with an ethernet cable. The computer has just one ethernet port. I just learned from my satellite TV provider that in order for me to access certain of their services, e.g, the On Demand feature, my receiver also would need to be connected to my computer with an ethernet cable. It is very unlikely that both computer and any of the TV services would be used at the same time. Is it possible to use a simple splitter along with a new length of cable to make this function? I've seen an ethernet splitter - just like a phone line splitter - on sale for as little as $6.99.

[cwwozniak]

A simple splitter as you describe would not work.

Adding an Ethernet switch or hub may allow you to expand the number of devices you can connect to the modem at one time. This will only work if your DSL service provider has the modem configured to support multiple connected devices.

[JefW]

Thanks, Chuck. Guess I'll contact my ISP to see if this is feasible. But I am curious as to why, if I won't be using computer and TV service simultaneously, a simple splitter wouldn't suffice. Without getting too technical could you please explain?

[JohnWill]

Well, the splitter will cause a failure of either device to see the Ethernet connection, so that can't work. Ethernet is designed to be strictly a point-to-point connection, and splitting it and connecting three devices together simply won't work.

The switch "might" work, as mentioned that depends on exactly what the ISP that provides the Internet service supplied as a modem. Many supply a modem/router.

If you provide exact makes and models of the equipment, we could probably be more help.

[zx10guy]

I would suspect the issue is due to the electrical specs. Splitting the connection will probably cause issues such as signal bounce. I'm not an EE but that would be my guess. This is provided the scenario is if one box is physically turned off over another. If they're both on, there's no way it will work at all.

[JefW]

Thanks John. Actually the equipment I referred to as a modem is made by Westell and states on the bottom that it's a DSL Router, Model C90-610030-06. If I can add anything to help you help me obviously don't hesitate.

[JefW]

Thanks John. Actually the equipment I referred to as a modem is made by Westell and states on the bottom that it's a DSL Router, Model C90-610030-06. If I can add anything to help you help me obviously don't hesitate.

[TerryNet]

Just add an ethernet switch and you should be fine.

[JohnWill]

Yep, the switch is the $15 solution to this issue, and it'll cause no contention issues and is 100% electrically compatible.

[JefW]

Thank, JohnWill (and TerryNet). Last but not least, any good suggestions where to obtain a good ethernet switch. Don't seem to be any $15 items in the retail world, e.g., Radio Shack.

[TerryNet]

They may not have high enough volume for most stores to carry them. Online is different. Buy.com has several for under or just over $15. I've bought from them and have been satisfied.

[JohnWill]

OfficeMax for $15: http://www.officemax.com/catalog/sku.jsp?productId=ARS23143&history=ez0ms2xw|prodPage~15^freeText~ethernet+s witch^paramValue~true^refine~1^region~1^param~return_skus^return_skus~Y

OfficeDepot for $15: http://www.officedepot.com/a/product...S-1105-5-Port/

[JefW]

Again, you've been enormously helpful and may have just saved me a few bucks if for $15 I can go to Office Depot or Max or Whatever. Actually Office Whatever has always served me well. I'm going to not that my question has been resolved and it's thanks to you, Terry and John. BTW John do you have a famous brother with either the name of George or Brad?

[JohnWill]

I wish I was related, maybe they'd put me in their will!

[JefW]

As we have both sufficiently made use of the word/name "will", I will bid you adieu! Vaya con dios.....