Apparently Comcast is in dire financial straights. If America’s largest cable provider doesn’t raise the cable modem rental fee to $5 from $3, it will not be able to roll out the faster Internet service, DOCSIS 3.0, and the executives won’t be able to get new trousers. Sure, the provider had enough cash to build a massive skyscraper and an impressive HD video wall in Philadelphia, but if you want faster Internet, some folks are going to have to pay more. It’s probably a good idea to point out that you can save a lot of money by purchasing your own cable modem.

Amazon has the Motorola Surfboard SB5101 Cable Modem for only $55. At that price, it would only take you eleven months to recover the cost. But if your area has the faster DOCSIS 3.0, you may want to spend a little extra and get the $85 SB6120 that’s compatible with Internet connections over 30Mbps. But remember, you’ll still save money in 17 months. (and you won’t be giving more money to evil Comcast)

Multichannel News,

In a statement, Comcast said: “We continually invest in providing customers with next-generation equipment and technology that delivers advanced voice and Internet services with enhanced capabilities. Our costs for this new equipment will increase by 167% over the next two years. As a result, we will increase modem equipment charges by $2.”

The rate hike will start this fall in select markets, but eventually the whole Comcast nation will be affected.