Introducing the Arris Cable Modem S33 Surfboard

The Arriss Surfboard is a high-performance cable modem designed for fast and reliable internet connectivity. This modem is ideal for households and small businesses that require a powerful and efficient device to support their online activities. The Arriss S33 Surfboard is compatible with major cable internet providers, including Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, and is capable of delivering download speeds of up to 6 Gbps. The Arriss S33 is available for purchase online and in-store from authorized retailers. The estimated price of the modem is around $200, making it a cost-effective solution for those who want to upgrade their internet connection without breaking the bank. The Arriss S33 was launched in 2021 and has since become a popular choice among internet users who demand fast and reliable connectivity. The SURFboard S33 DOCSIS 3.1 cable modem provides ultra high-speed internet access over the broadband connection on your home or small business network. You use your S33 to directly connect a computer or router to your LAN through an Ethernet connection. This guide provides instructions for installing and setting up your S33 to get it connected on your home or small business network; as well as viewing and monitoring the S33 operational status and network configuration settings.

Detailed Specifications

The Arriss Surfboard boasts several key features that make it a high-performance cable modem. These specifications include:

• Download speeds of up to 6 Gbps
• DOCSIS 3.1 technology for faster and more efficient internet connectivity
• 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels
• Compatibility with major cable internet providers
• Two Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections
• Advanced security features to protect your network from online threats
• Compact and sleek design for easy placement

In the box

Before installing your S33, check that the following items are included in the box. If any items are missing, please call ARRIS customer support at 1-877-466-8646 for assistance. S33 package contents

Additional items needed (not included)
The following items are not included in the box and must be purchased separately, if needed.

• Coaxial (coax) cable: if one is not already connected to a cable wall outlet
• RF splitter: for additional coaxial cable connections, such as a set-top box or Smart TV
• Ethernet cable: for any wired connected device(s)

System requirements

• High-speed internet access account
• Web browser access – Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Firefox, or Safari
•     Compatible operating systems:
• Windows 10
•     Windows 8
• Windows 7 Service Pack 1 (SP1)
  Note: Although older versions of Microsoft Windows operating systems are no longer specifically supported, they should still function with your S33.
• Macintosh 10.4 or higher
• UNIX
• Linux

Product Description of Arriss Cable Modem Surfboard

The Arriss Surfboard is a powerful cable modem that delivers lightning-fast download speeds of up to 6 Gbps. This Arriss Cable Modem S33 Surfboard is equipped with DOCSIS 3.1 technology, which is the latest standard in cable modem technology. This technology allows the modem to support faster and more efficient internet connectivity, reducing lag time and improving overall performance. With 32 downstream and 8 upstream channels, the Arriss S33 Surfboard can handle multiple devices and online activities simultaneously. This modem is compatible with major cable internet providers, including Xfinity, Cox, and Spectrum, making it a versatile solution for a wide range of users. The modem features two Gigabit Ethernet ports for wired connections, as well as advanced security features to protect your network from online threats. The Arriss Surfboard boasts a compact and sleek design, making it easy to place in any room. The modem is lightweight and can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desk. The modem is also easy to set up and use, with a user-friendly interface that guides you through the installation process.

Product Overview

Front panel
There is only one LED bar on the S33 front panel. It is located beneath the SURFboard logo on the front of the S33.

S33 front panel LED status indicator

Rear panel

S33 rear panel ports & connectors

Cable modem label

The cable modem label is located on the bottom of your S33. It contains the cable modem information that you may need when contacting your service provider or ARRIS Technical Support.
To receive internet service, contact your service provider for assistance. You may have to provide the following information listed on the S33 label:

• Cable modem model name (S33)
• Cable modem Serial number (S/N)
• Cable modem MAC address (HFC MAC ID)

Setting up your cable modem using your client device (computer/laptop)

To set up your cable modem using your client device (laptop/computer)

• Contact your service provider or a local cable company to make sure broadband cable service is available in your area.
  Note: When contacting your service provider, you will need the information listed on the label on the bottom of your cable modem. For more information, see Cable modem label
• Choose a location in your home where your cable modem and computer will be near existing cable and electrical wall outlets.

S33 connection diagram

1. Check that a coaxial cable is already connected to a cable wall outlet or RF splitter (not included).
2. Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to the Cable connector on the rear of your S33. Use your hand to tighten the connectors to avoid damaging them.
3. Connect an Ethernet cable to the 2.5 GE Ethernet port on the rear of your cable modem.
4. Connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to an available Ethernet port on your computer, laptop, or router.
   Optional: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for an additional client device or other network-enabled device that you want to install as a wired connection on your home network.
   Note: Your service provider may not support activation of the second Ethernet port or may require an additional fee for use. Contact your service provider for more information.
5. Connect the power supply to the Power port on the rear of your cable modem.
6. Plug the other end of the power supply into an electrical wall outlet that is not controlled by a wall switch.
   Note: Your cable modem automatically powers ON. The LED on the front panel may take up to 15 seconds to light up after the power is connected.
   To establish Internet connection
   Note: Although your computer or laptop may be configured to automatically access the internet, you should still perform the following cable modem connectivity test to check that your cable modem and computer or laptop are connected on your home network.
7. Power ON your computer or laptop connected to your cable modem, if it is turned off; then log on.
8. Check that the front panel LED on your cable modem lights up.
9. Contact your service provider to activate your cable modem. You may have to provide the HFC MAC ID listed on your cable modem label.
   Note: Your service provider may allow for automatic activation which will automatically launch their special website on your computer or laptop when you open a web browser.
10. Type a valid URL (such as https://www.surfboard.com/) in the Address bar and then press Enter. The ARRIS SURFboard website should open. If the website fails to open, please contact your service provider for assistance to either reactivate your cable modem or check for possible signal issues.
11. Check that your cable modem's front panel LED lights up to confirm that your cable modem is connected to the Internet.

Using your Web Manager

You can use the S33 Web Manager to view and monitor the S33 operational status and network configuration settings. You can also use the Web Manager to reset or reboot your S33.
Note: If you did not purchase your S33 from a retail store, you may notice that some of the S33 web manager configuration settings may be blocked ad cannot be modified. This may be due to some restrictions that were set up by your service provider to prevent unauthorized modifications to certain cable modem configuration parameters.
Start your Web Manager
If this is your first time logging on to the S33 Web Manager, you must use admin for the username.
For network security, you are required to change the user password after logging on for thefirst time.

1. Open any web browser on the computer connected to your S33.
2. Type the default LAN IP address, 192.168.100.1, in the address bar.

3. Press Enter to open the S33 Login screen.

   

4. Enter admin in the Username field.
5. Enter the password in the Password field.
6. Click Apply to open the S33 Web Manager.

7. On the Login Settings screen, on first use, you will be prompted for a new password. Enter the password in the Old Password field and then the new password in the New Password field. Enter the new password in the Repeat New Password field to confirm.

   

8. Click Apply.

   

The S33 Web Manager displays the Product Registration window. Click one of the following to open the S33 Connection screen
Register 
Ask me later
Stop asking

S33 opening screen
The S33 Web Manager screen appears.\

Cable Modem S33 Surfboard web manager screen options

Menu buttons 
You can use the web manager buttons to view the status and network configuration screens for your S33.
The S33 menu buttons are displayed along the top of the S33 web manager screen. To display a specific web manager screen, click the menu button.

S33 web manager screen options

Exit the S33 web manager
To exit the S33 web manager

• Click (Close button) in the upper right corner of the web browser window.

Monitoring your cable modem and connected network

Note: You may notice that some of the S33 web manager configuration settings may be blocked and cannot be modified. This may be due to some restrictions set up by your service provider for security reasons and also to prevent unauthorized modifications to certain cable modem configuration parameters. Contact your service provider to obtain special authorization to change the cable modem frequencies or other configuration settings.
View the Downstream bonded channels
The S33 generates a running log of the time and events or activities that it detects during the cable modem operation.
Note: This information may be useful to help diagnose and correct any problems that may occur with your cable modem. You may want to provide this information if you have to contact ARRIS Technical Support or your service provider for assistance.
To open the Downstream bonded channels screen

1. Open the S33 Web Manager, see Start your Web Manager (page 15) for more information.

2. Click the Downstream bonded channels menu button or link on the S33 Web Manager screen.

   

3. Press F5 to refresh or update the information on the screen.

Restart your Arriss Cable Modem Surfboard

To restart your S33

1. Insert the end of a paper clip or other small object with a narrow tip into the Reset opening on the back of your S33.
2. Press and hold the indented Reset button for three to four seconds only, and then release.

Warning: If you press the Reset button for more than seven seconds, the cable modem configuration settings will be reset to the factory default settings 

Reset the S33 configuration settings

You can reset the factory default configuration settings on your S33. This process will delete the current S33 configuration settings and take approximately five to 30 minutes to complete. Your network connection will remain disabled until after the S33 configuration settings are restored.
Warning: Resetting the S33 configuration settings to the factory defaults also deletes any custom cable modem configurations, including your login password, and other configuration settings. You should first back up your S33 configuration files before resetting your S33.
To reset the cable modem configuration back to the factory default settings

1. Insert the end of a paper clip or other small object with a narrow tip into the Reset opening on the back of your S33.
2. Press and hold the indented Reset button for 10 seconds or until the front panel LED flashes 
3. Remove the paper clip or small object from the opening

Safety and regulatory information

Read all safety and regulatory information before installing your cable modem and setting up your home network connection.
Important safety instructions
Read this before you begin: When using your equipment, basic safety precautions should always be followed to reduce the risk of fire, electric shock, and injury to persons, including the following

• Read all of the instructions listed here and/or in the user manual before you operate this device. Give particular attention to all safety precautions. Retain the instructions for future reference.
• This device must be installed and used in strict accordance with manufacturer’s instructions, as described in the user documentation that is included with the device.
• Comply with all warning and caution statements in the instructions. Observe all warning and caution symbols that are affixed to this device.
• To prevent fire or shock hazard, do not expose this device to rain or moisture. The device must not be exposed to dripping or splashing. Do not place objects filled with liquids, such as vases, on the device.
• This device was qualified under test conditions that included the use of the supplied cables between system components. To ensure regulatory and safety compliance, use only the provided power and interface cables and install them properly.
• Different types of cord sets may be used for connections to the main POWER supply circuit. Use only a main line cord that complies with all applicable device safety requirements of the country of use.
• Installation of this device must be in accordance with national wiring codes and conform to local regulations.
• Operate this device only from the type of power source indicated on the device’s marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supplied to your home, consult your dealer or local power company.
• Do not overload outlets or extension cords, as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Overloaded electrical outlets, extension cords, frayed power cords, damaged or cracked wire insulation, and broken plugs are dangerous. They may result in a shock or fire hazard.
• Route power supply cords so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them. Pay particular attention to cords where they are attached to plugs and convenience receptacles and examine the point where they exit from the device.
• Place this device in a location that is close enough to an electrical outlet to accommodate the length of the power cord.
• Place the device to allow for easy access when disconnecting the power cord of the device from the electrical wall outlet.
• Do not connect the plug into an extension cord, receptacle, or other outlet unless the plug can be fully inserted with no part of the blades exposed.
• Place this device on a stable surface.
• Avoid damaging the device with static by touching the coaxial cable when it is attached to the earth-grounded coaxial cable-TV wall outlet.
• Always first touch the coaxial cable connector on the device when disconnecting or reconnecting the Ethernet cable from the device or user’s PC.
• It is recommended that the customer install an electrical surge protector in the electrical outlet to which this device is connected. This is to avoid damaging the device by local lightning strikes and other electrical surges.
• Postpone installation until there is no risk of thunderstorms or lightning activity in the area.
• Do not use this product near water: for example, near a bathtub, washbowl, kitchen sink or laundry tub, in a wet basement, or near a swimming pool.
• Do not cover the device or block the airflow to the device with any other objects. Keep the device away from excessive heat and humidity and keep the device free from vibration and dust.
• Wipe the device with a clean, dry cloth. Never use cleaning fluid or similar chemicals. Do not spray cleaners directly on the device or use forced air to remove dust.
• For added protection, unplug the device from the wall outlet and disconnect the cables to avoid damage to this device during lightning activity or power surges.
• Upon completion of any service or repairs to this device, ask the service technician to perform safety checks to determine that the device is in safe operating condition.
• Do not open the device. Do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the installation and troubleshooting instructions. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel.
• This device should not be used in an environment that exceeds 104° F (40° C)

Note to CATV System Installer: This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer’s attention to Articles 820.93 and 820.100 of the National Electric Code, which provides guidelines for proper grounding and specifies that the Coaxial cable shield shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical.

Troubleshooting of Arriss Cable Modem 

If the solutions listed in the Troubleshooting solutions table below do not resolve your problem, please contact your service provider for assistance. Your service provider may ask for the status of the S33 front panel LED for more information). You may have to reset the S33 configuration to the default factory settings if your S33 is not functioning properly. See Reset the cable modem configuration settings for more information.
Troubleshooting solutions
 

Here are some common problems and solutions for the Arriss Surfboard

• Problem: The modem is not connecting to the internet.
  Solution: Check that all cables are properly connected and that the modem is powered on. If the problem persists, try resetting the modem by pressing the reset button on the back of the modem.
• Problem: The modem is overheating.
  Solution: Make sure that the modem is placed in a well-ventilated area and that there is nothing blocking the vents. If the modem continues to overheat, try turning it off and letting it cool down before turning it back on.
• Problem: The modem is not compatible with your cable internet provider.
  Solution: Check the compatibility of the modem with your cable internet provider. If the modem is not compatible, contact your provider for a list of compatible modems.

Warranty information

If you purchased this Product directly from ARRIS or from an authorized ARRIS retail reseller, ARRIS warrants to you, the original end user customer, that () the Product, excluding Software, will be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use, and () with respect to Software, (i) the media on which the Software is provided will be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use, and (ii) the Software will perform substantially as described in its documentation. This Limited Warranty to you, the original end user customer, continues () for Software and the media upon which it is provided, for a period of ninety (90) days from the date of purchase from ARRIS or an authorized ARRIS reseller, and () for the Product (excluding Software), for a period of two (2) years from the date of purchase from ARRIS or from an authorized ARRIS reseller.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Fast download speeds of up to 6 Gbps
  • DOCSIS 3.1 technology for faster and more efficient internet connectivity
  • Compatibility with major cable internet providers
  • Advanced security features to protect your network from online threats
  • Compact and sleek design
• Cons:
  • May be overkill for some users who do not require fast download speeds
  • Slightly more expensive than some other cable modems on the market

Customer Reviews

Customers who have purchased the S33 Surfboard have praised its fast download speeds and reliable performance. Many users have reported that the Arriss Cable Modem S33 Surfboard has significantly improved their internet connectivity, allowing them to stream videos, play online games, and browse the web without lag time or buffering. The modem's compact and sleek design has also been praised, with many users noting that it is easy to place in any room. However, some users have reported issues with the modem's setup process, noting that it can be difficult to configure. Some users have also reported that the modem can be prone to overheating, especially if it is placed in a poorly ventilated area. Despite these minor issues, the Arriss Surfboard has received mostly positive reviews from customers who are looking for a high-performance cable modem.