• Wireless "Triple Play" Systems

Wireless CATV Links (AML)

Wireless Links, as defined by Cable AML, are broadband, point-to-point, microwave links designed to transport analog and/or digital signals from a point of origin to one or more remote hubs for distribution.

These microwave links were originally designed to enable Cable Television Systems (CATV) to transport video signals to pockets of subscribers isolated from the main cable plant, bypassing natural or man-made obstacles such as water, mountains, buildings, or areas where there are no subscribers. These links are called Amplitude Modulated Links, or AML. AML refers to the specific technique for implementing multi-channel links using TV signals with either AM, FM or digital modulation.

Cable AML microwave links deliver quality signals at relatively long distances. For example, a typical AML link can deliver CATV signals up to 40km with the same or better quality than fiber or coaxial cable.

Cable AML microwave systems typically consist of a transmitter with a dish antenna at the Headend site feeding a receiver connected directly to the trunk cable system at one or more hub sites. Because the receiver feeds the trunk cable system directly, there is no need for interface equipment or facilities at the receive site.

AML is a line-of-sight technology. If there is no line-of-sight between transmitter and receiver, one or more on-frequency repeaters can be used to complete the link.

Wireless HFC Extensions

AML systems generally transmit in one direction -- downstream -- for distribution. However, since upstream video and data channels can be incorporated into wireless CATV links with little effort, Cable TV Operators can offer the entire palette of two-way applications to those isolated subscribers.

Adding receive capability at the Headend site and transmit capability at the hub site(s) makes the system full duplex. Cable AML is the leader in this technology - what we call Wireless HFC Extensions.

Wireless DOCSIS Return

Cable AML offers Cable TV operators with one-way cable systems a way to provide DOCSIS Cable Modem service at low cost without necessarily implementing the expensive cable plant upgrade from one-way to two-way.

The Wireless DOCSIS Return System called the BWA-2000C allows cable operators to provide DOCSIS Cable Modem service in a one-way only cable plant. The system works by installing wireless return transmitters at several nodes in the cable system, providing a wireless path for the return of the DOCSIS upstream signal to the Headend. The return link can be implemented in any licensed frequency band.

CATV Link Features

AML/Microwave Links

  • One master AML microwave Headend can deliver 80 channels (including regional programming) simultaneously to one or multiple locations, providing a very attractive alternative to maintenance-intensive, stand-alone Headends.

  • AML microwave systems are transparent to scrambling techniques and can handle all types of modulation.

  • AML microwaves easily allow video program, advertising and data channels to be exchanged between CATV systems within a geographical area.

  • With broadband microwave, the only additional costs of channel expansion are the Headend processors at the master transmit site.

  • Microwave equipment can be added and moved quickly, giving the cable operator much needed flexibility. There are no right-of-way hassles and no construction costs. Microwaves easily reach new subscriber pockets.

  • The flexible configuration options of Cable AML's microwave receivers allow them to be placed virtually anywhere.

  • Upstream AML microwave video or data channels can be added to a downstream path at any time, and generally do not require new antennas or waveguide.

Wireless HFC Extensions

  • Wireless HFC extensions enable operators to provide the complete range of system services to customers served by wireless links.

  • Wireless HFC extensions provide options for additional downstream capacity.

  • Wireless HFC extensions provide an upstream signal path for high speed data communications.

Wireless DOCSIS Return

  • Wireless DOCSIS Return allows for cable modem service to be started with a very low initial investment.

  • Wireless DOCSIS Return uses the same DOCSIS equipment as two-way cable systems. When the cable system is upgraded to HFC or two-way, there is no need to change or replace any equipment.

  • Wireless DOCSIS Return is totally transparent to the subscribers, who get high-speed Internet access from practically any location in the cable system.