Apparatus and methods for dynamic delivery of optical and non-optical content in a network

摘要

Apparatus and methods for providing content to devices in a content distribution network. In one embodiment, a hybrid fiber/coax network provides optical signals to an amplification and combination node, the signals which are converted to radio frequency (RF) signals and transmitted to a series of cascading amplification and combination apparatus. The converted signals are combined with legacy RF signals at the combination apparatus, and distributed further downstream to serviced premises as well as other portions of the network cascade. Time division techniques are used to mitigate interference between the various amplification and combination nodes within the cascade. The programmable time division devices allow for rapid spectrum reallocation, and for insertion of different content at each different node of the network.

主权项

1. A system configured to provide content to a plurality of client devices in a service group of a content delivery network, said system comprising:
a network entity comprising at least one apparatus configured to transmit first optical signals; and a plurality of amplification and combination apparatus disposed substantially in series to one another and each configured to receive and convert said first optical signals to first radio frequency (RF) signals via a converter apparatus associated therewith, a first one in said series of said plurality of amplification and combination apparatus also being in communication with a service node, said service node configured to receive and transmit second RF signals to said first one in said series of said plurality of amplification and combination apparatus; wherein each of said plurality of client devices are in communication with at least one of said plurality of amplification and combination apparatus; and wherein said plurality of amplification and combination apparatus are each configured to combine said first RF signals with said second RF signals so as to generate a combined RF signal, and transmit said combined RF signal to at least a portion of said plurality of client devices.