Cable TV is typically distributed to homes using a network of coaxial cables originating from the cable company's local facility. This system delivers multiple television channels to subscribers.
Here's a breakdown of how it works:
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Origin: The signal originates from the cable company's central hub or headend. This is where they receive television programming from various sources (satellite, fiber optic, local broadcast antennas).
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Signal Processing: At the headend, the signals are processed, amplified, and modulated onto different frequencies. This allows multiple channels to be transmitted over the same cable.
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Distribution Network: From the headend, the signal travels through a network of fiber optic and coaxial cables. Fiber optic cables are used for long-distance transmission because they offer higher bandwidth and less signal loss.
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Trunk Lines: The fiber optic cables connect to regional hubs, where the signal is converted back to electrical signals and sent through coaxial trunk lines. These trunk lines are the main arteries of the cable system, often supported on utility poles.
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Distribution Amplifiers: Along the trunk lines, distribution amplifiers are placed at regular intervals to boost the signal and compensate for signal loss.
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Drop Cables: From the trunk lines, smaller coaxial "drop" cables branch off to individual subscriber homes. These drop cables connect to the cable box or directly to the TV (if it has a built-in QAM tuner).
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Coaxial Cable: The final connection to the television or cable box is made via a coaxial cable. This cable carries the television signals.
In essence, cable TV utilizes a physical network of cables and electronic equipment to transmit television signals from a central source to individual households. The coaxial cable is the final leg of this journey, delivering the programming to your TV.
