FFT tap WiFi extension device

摘要

Techniques for adding WiFi capabilities to a region may include installing WiFi access points in a cable television (CATV) system. For easier installation of the WiFi access points, a WiFi access point extension devices may be integrated into existing taps in the CATV system. The WiFi extended taps are able to provide radio frequency (RF)/CATV signals to subscribers, provide power to the respectively integrated WiFi access point, and maintain power to the coaxial transmission line during installation. During installation, the WiFi access point extension devices can be integrated into the CATV outdoor distribution plant without having to splice into an existing coaxial transmission line. The multiplicity of existing tap locations in CATV distribution plants makes the positioning of new wireless access points extremely versatile for the cable provider.

主权项

1. A method for installing a WiFi access point extension device to a cable television tap that receives and transmits radio frequency (RF) signals over a coaxial cable, the tap connected in series between a first cable portion and a second cable portion, the method comprising:
removing a tap cover assembly from a tap housing of the tap, the tap housing having a plurality of input/output (I/O) signal ports for receiving a respective cable portion; mounting the WiFi access point extension device to the tap housing, wherein the WiFi access point extension device and the tap cover assembly are interchangeably mountable to the tap housing; and mounting the tap cover assembly to the WiFi access point extension device such that the WiFi access point extension device is mounted between the tap housing and the tap cover assembly, wherein an interface of the WiFi access point extension device is configured to route RF signals from the coaxial cable between the tap housing and the tap cover assembly upon engagement of the tap cover assembly to the WiFi access point extension device, wherein signaling between the first cable portion and the second cable portion is uninterrupted during installation of the WiFi access point extension device.