Should I keep my new Motorola SB6141

I'd say there's benefit to finding out what is going on with the swap.  If our system isn't having any problems doing the swap but the modem just won't come online there's a reasonable chance the modem is just experiencing an out of box defect if the old one still works.  You could try exchanging it and trying again.  

All modems should sync up without having to be activated on our end.  This allows our customers take advantage of the self-activation process should they choose to do so.  If a modem will not sync or keeps rebooting out of the box that would suggest a problem with either signal or the modem itself.  It's possible in some cases that a firmware update could fix but firmware can only be updated when the modem is working correctly.  For situations where the modem won't sync and needs a firmware update that has to go back to the modem manufacturer.

January 16th, 2014, 5pm

Super thanks for response "ChrsL."

Your operators did not inform me about "self-activation" and "denied" that "firmware updates/configs" were available. Not an issue, I am sure they are doing their "best"-- I am  not a computer expert but I enjoy a hands on approach.

OK, I will exchange my new Motorola SB6141 modem just to play it safe and attempt a "self-activation." Here are a couple of "dumb" questions:

1. How can I "self-activate" a new modem when I am using my old modem to stay online?

2. Does the "self-activation" required that I first input the information (SN, MAC, etc) online and then disconnect my old modem and then connect the new one? Or should I have access to the internet via another network? 

3. Are there step-by-step instructions in "self-activation" the shows the whole process. Your website won't allow me to review/study the full steps before I begin.

4. Finally, if all fails (or speeds are too slow) can I "self-re-activate" my old modem?

...I look forward to your post! Super thanks!

Vic

First I would suggest checking your signal levels. DOCSIS 3.0 requires tighter restraints to the signal specs. Another words, a signal problem that might not have caused a "symptom" with your old D2 modem might be giving the newer D3 modem issue. You should be able to find them at 192.168.100.1. But to answer your questions;

1. You can't. 

2. No. It requires that you be using the modem that your trying to register.

3. Not that I have seen. The instructions are given during the registrations process.

4. Yes.

The self activation system detects the serial number and MAC address of the modem your using during activation. What it requires of you is your account number and specifics. It's mainly designed for people to be able buy a modem and start service without having to call Cox. It sometimes has problems swapping equipment, especially if your going back and forth. Your better off calling Cox up from your cell and having the representative add over the phone, that way they can see your modem come up and confirm the signal levels. 

The self activation process is fairly automatic for the most part.  If you try to access the Internet with an unactivated modem you'll automatically be routed to the self-registration page where you can input your account information to complete the process.  Once complete the modem will reboot however if you are also using a router you'll need to manually power cycle the router to avoid being sent back to the self-registration page.  So long as your old modem is still approved for use you can repeat the process to swap back if you desire.  If the modem will not sync out of the box however this would indicate a problem and the self-registration process would not be available.