I tested the homeplug theory, but that sadly wasn't it the big hole in the bit loading info was still there. I'll get more drastic tonight!

Cheers

Steve

In reply to a post by vdsl_steve:

Modem is 30cm from master socket, connected by 1m long RJ-11 to RJ-11, supplied with modem.

I think Belkin make a shielded RJ11 cable...

In reply to a post by BatBoy:

In reply to a post by vdsl_steve:

Modem is 30cm from master socket, connected by 1m long RJ-11 to RJ-11, supplied with modem.

I think Belkin make a shielded RJ11 cable...

although I note the connection should be made with RJ12

why use RJ12 ? two more unused wires.

Why shielded? A twisted pair cable would be adequate in most cases.

Mine are made from 2 pair Cat5e and RJ12s.

The last Belkin shielded cable with RJ11/12 was about £10 for 1.5 metres

In reply to a post by MHC:

Why shielded? A twisted pair cable would be adequate in most cases.

Mine are made from 2 pair Cat5e and RJ12s.

The last Belkin shielded cable with RJ11/12 was about £10 for 1.5 metres

Given he may have a noise problem, for some reason he's losing bit-loading, might as well change everything as much as possible to narrow down the problem. What's a few quid when you've already replaced the VDSL modem?

Using a screened cable if you haven't got a proper signal earth is a bit iffy anyway.

You've beaten me with that comment, although it should have been directed at BB!

I thought I had... put it down to a caffeine deficiency

I don't think it needs an earth. I think that's a drain wire in cases where you're screening HV cables and dangerous surface voltages build up on the screening - in aircraft for example.