ADSL unstable (only) when downloading at line speed - any ideas?

Engram · 22 Jan 2013 at 09:44

I'm having an issue with my ADSL where it's unstable only when I'm downloading at line speed (about 12Mbit). For normal use (web browsing, gaming, etc.) it's ok.

The router appears to lose its sync with the exchange, so my first thought is that the router is at fault. However, I'd be interested to hear your ideas.

Engram · 22 Jan 2013 at 09:59

I'll check noise margins at midday (when home server turns on and I can connect to router).

I've never asked for fast path, so I'm guessing it's off?

Engram · 22 Jan 2013 at 12:14

ADSL connection stats:

Engram · 22 Jan 2013 at 13:32

KIA said:
Does it reboot as well as lose sync?

That's a good question. The router's uptime does match the last disconnection logged by Plusnet, so unless I manually rebooted it (don't remember doing that) it is restarting itself.

Obviously that confirms the theory that the router is at fault. I think I need to try and reproduce the error tonight.

Router is a Billion BiPAC 7300A. As far as I can tell I am using the latest firmware.

What's the preferred ADSL2+ router/modem at the moment?

Engram · 23 Jan 2013 at 09:30

KIA, the last time it happened I was downloading a game from Steam, so I guess it was a single threaded download? (Unless Steam uses P2P?)

WesleyBurns, thanks for the great info and comments. It sounds like you manage your ADSL connection at a pretty detailed level!

It's interesting that you recommend another Billion. I was starting to think I was the only person using one.

PS. The problem has only started recently.

Engram · 23 Jan 2013 at 13:41

Looks like the router restarted against last night, right around the time I had a download scheduled.

I'm wondering if it's a heat issue? The router's current location has almost no airflow.

http://superuser.com/questions/1359...r-which-often-reboots-in-high-load-conditions

I will try moving it and see what difference that makes. I like the idea of the Billion 7800N though - might get one anyway.

Engram · 18 Mar 2013 at 14:34

Thought I'd make a final update to this thread.

After moving the router the high-load restarts stopped, so I believe it was being caused by excessive heat!

I'm now using a Billion 7800N, but only because I saw one going for a good price on the Member's Market.