Electrical transmission or interconnection systems – Switching systems – Condition responsive
Reexamination Certificate
1999-06-14
2001-09-25
Ballato, Josie (Department: 2836)
Electrical transmission or interconnection systems
Switching systems
Condition responsive
C333S100000, C200S050100
Reexamination Certificate
active
06294846
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to communication systems and electronic devices for use therein, and more specifically to distribution equipment, such as broadband network amplifiers.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
When distributing radio frequency (RF) signals, such as video signals, over broadband networks, it is common practice to transmit RF signals over a coaxial cable through an amplifier to a plurality of passive devices. These RF signals originate from a central location commonly referred to as the “headend”. Passives tap off the RF signal from a broadband network distribution system, such as a cable television system, and feed the tapped-off RF signal to various subscriber equipment. With the advent of interactive television, these passives must also pass RF signals (which can be referred to as “upstream” or “reverse” signals) from the home to the headend without interfering with RF signals (which can be referred to as “downstream” or “forward” signals) sent to other passives and amplifiers.
Prior art amplifiers amplify and transmit RF signals that carry video and voice data from a central location or headend to a plurality of subscribers. The amplifiers can be upgraded, such as to support higher frequency signals, repaired, or replaced in the field. Doing any of these things, however, requires removal and replacement of the circuitry inside the amplifier housing, which temporarily disconnects service downstream. Such a temporary disconnection in service is often unacceptable to customers and, in two-way systems, to communication service providers as well.
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Hughes Jeffrey P.
Jenkins Joel P.
Mahoney William G.
Spriester Bart F.
Yi Joshua C.
Ballato Josie
Bernhardt, III Hubert J.
Gardner Kelly A.
Massaroni Kenneth M.
Rios Roberto
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