JP2015136088A - Node device and cable television system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To upgrade a system while responding to the needs of users, without an excessive capital investment.SOLUTION: A node device has an HFC functional unit 33 mounted detachably, and transmitting and receiving a signal corresponding to an HFC, an FTTH functional unit (an optical signal amplification section 34, an optical signal processing section 35) constituted detachably, and transmitting and receiving a signal corresponding to an FTTH, a state acquisition unit (supervisory control section 306) for acquiring operational state information of the HFC functional unit, and acquiring operational state information of the FTTH functional unit, when it is mounted, and a state transmission unit (R-Tx310, 311) for transmitting the state information thus acquired to a center device. At least one of the HFC functional unit and FTTH functional unit is mounted.

Description

  The present invention relates to a node device using a composite type node device and a cable television system.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a technology related to HFC (Hybrid Fiber Coaxial), which forms a CATV network by combining optical fibers and coaxial cables.

  In recent years, FTTH (Fiber To The Home), which draws optical fiber to ordinary homes and integrates services such as telephone, Internet, and video distribution, has been attracting attention and is becoming popular.

JP 2001-025005 A

  By the way, when the equipment is changed to FTTH in the state where HFC is used as existing equipment, excessive capital investment is temporarily incurred to the cable TV service provider when trying to change to FTTH all over the entire network. There is a problem of concentrating on.

  In addition, there are various needs depending on the user's hobbies and preferences, so if you try to change the equipment to FTTH at once, users who do not want such services may decline the demand for services. There is a problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and while responding to the needs of users, excessive capital investment can be avoided from being temporarily concentrated. An object of the present invention is to provide a node device and a cable television system that can be upgraded.

In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a cable television system including a center device, a node device connected to the center device via an optical transmission line, and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the node device. In the node device, the HFC function unit configured to be detachable and transmit / receive a signal corresponding to the HFC, the FTTH function unit configured to be detachable and transmit / receive a signal corresponding to FTTH, and the HFC function unit A state acquisition unit that acquires operation state information of the HFC function unit when the FTTH function unit is mounted; and a state acquisition unit that acquires operation state information of the FTTH function unit when the FTTH function unit is mounted. A state transmission unit that transmits the state information acquired by the state acquisition unit to the center device, and the HFC function unit and the FT At least one of H functional units, characterized in that it is fitted.
According to such a configuration, while responding to the needs of users, excessive capital investment can be avoided from being temporarily concentrated, and even systems having different forms can be upgraded in stages.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal processing unit.
According to such a configuration, by processing the optical signal, the optical signal can be stably transmitted even when the distance from the terminal device is long.

In the invention, it is preferable that the optical signal processing unit includes a repeater function unit.
According to such a configuration, the occurrence of errors can be reduced by shaping the waveform of the optical signal by the repeater function unit.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal amplification unit.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to increase the intensity of the optical signal received by the terminal device connected to the subordinate, so that it is possible to connect more terminal devices and reduce the occurrence of errors. .

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the terminal device transmits and receives signals by the HFC when the FTTH function unit is not attached.
According to such a configuration, when the terminal device supports only HFC, the cost can be reduced by setting the FTTH function unit to the unmounted state.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that when the optical signal processing unit is attached, at least one of the terminal devices transmits / receives a signal via the optical signal processing unit.
According to such a configuration, an optical signal can be supplied via the optical signal processing unit even when only a part of the terminal devices under the control can receive the optical signal.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that when the optical signal amplification unit is mounted, at least one of the terminal devices transmits and receives a signal by FTTH.
According to such a configuration, an optical signal corresponding to FTTH can be supplied via the optical signal amplifying unit even when only a part of the subordinate terminal devices support FTTH.

Further, according to the present invention, when the FTTH function unit is mounted, at least one of the terminal devices receives a signal by the FTTH, and at least one other of the terminal devices is FTTP (Fiber To The Premises). The FTTH and the FTTP are shared by transmitting and receiving signals according to the above.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the capital investment by sharing the optical transmission paths of FTTH and FTTP.

Further, the present invention is configured to be detachable in a cable television system having a center device, a node device connected to the center device via an optical transmission line, and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the node device. An HFC function unit that transmits / receives a signal corresponding to the HFC, a FTTH function unit configured to be detachable and transmits / receives a signal corresponding to FTTH, and the HFC function unit when the HFC function unit is mounted. In addition to acquiring the state information of the operation of the functional unit, and when the FTTH function unit is mounted, a state acquisition unit that acquires the state information of the operation of the FTTH function unit, and the state acquired by the state acquisition unit A state transmission unit that transmits state information to the center device, and at least one of the HFC function unit and the FTTH function unit is mounted, Receiving the form of the serial signal for each cell formed by the group of the terminal device is characterized in that it is selected.
According to such a configuration, while responding to the needs of users, excessive capital investment can be avoided from being temporarily concentrated, and even systems having different forms can be upgraded in stages.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the node device has an optical signal processing unit.
According to such a configuration, by processing the optical signal, the optical signal can be stably transmitted even when the distance from the terminal device is long.

In the invention, it is preferable that the optical signal processing unit includes a repeater function unit.
According to such a configuration, the occurrence of errors can be reduced by shaping the waveform of the optical signal by the repeater function unit.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal amplification unit.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to increase the intensity of the optical signal received by the terminal device connected to the subordinate, so that it is possible to connect more terminal devices and reduce the occurrence of errors. .

Further, the present invention is characterized in that the terminal device connected to a node device not equipped with the FTTH function unit transmits and receives signals by the HFC.
According to such a configuration, when the terminal device supports only HFC, the cost can be reduced by setting the FTTH function unit to the unmounted state.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that at least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the optical signal processing unit is attached transmits and receives a signal via the optical signal processing unit.
According to such a configuration, an optical signal can be supplied via the optical signal processing unit even when only a part of the terminal devices under the control can receive the optical signal.

Further, the present invention is characterized in that at least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the optical signal amplifier is attached receives a signal by FTTH.
According to such a configuration, an optical signal corresponding to FTTH can be supplied via the optical signal amplifying unit even when only a part of the subordinate terminal devices support FTTH.

Further, according to the present invention, at least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the FTTH function unit is attached transmits and receives a signal by the FTTH, and at least one other of the terminal devices is FTTP ( Signals by Fiber To The Premises) are transmitted and received, and the FTTH and the FTTP transmission path are shared.
According to such a configuration, it is possible to reduce the capital investment by sharing the optical transmission paths of FTTH and FTTP.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, while responding to a user's needs, it can avoid that excessive capital investment concentrates temporarily and can upgrade in steps even if it is a system in which a form differs, and a cable It becomes possible to provide a television system.

It is a figure which shows the structural example of embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the detailed structural example of HE and composite type node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the system before introducing the composite type node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to the type 1 at the time of introducing the composite type node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to the type 2 at the time of introducing the composite node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to the type 3 at the time of introducing the composite type node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to the type 4 at the time of introducing the compound type node apparatus shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to a type 5. FIG. It is a figure which shows embodiment corresponding to a type 6. FIG. It is a flowchart for demonstrating an example of the process performed in embodiment shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows the detailed structural example of the deformation | transformation embodiment of FIG.

  Next, an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

(A) Description of Configuration of Embodiment of the Present Invention FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a cable television system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a cable television system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an HE (Head End) 10, an optical transmission line 20, and composite node devices 30, 30A, 30B, 30C arranged in a cable television station. GE-PON (Gigabit Ethernet (registered trademark) -Passive Optical Network) -ONU (Optical Network Unit) 60, V (Visual) -ONU 65, CM (Cable Modem) 70, STB (Set Top Box) 75, and TV A receiver 80 is included.

  Here, the HE 10 is disposed in the CATV station and transmits a video signal, an audio signal, and a communication signal to the optical transmission line 20. The optical transmission line 20 is configured by, for example, a multiplexed optical cable, and transmits an optical signal transmitted from the HE 10.

  The composite node device 30A is a node device having an HFC function unit that transmits and receives signals corresponding to the HFC. The composite node device 30B is a node device in which an optical signal processing unit is added as an FTTH function unit that transmits and receives signals corresponding to FTTH in the composite node device 30A described above. The optical signal processing unit has a function of transmitting and receiving signals in accordance with, for example, EPON (Ethernet (registered trademark) -based Passive Optical Network). The composite node device 30 is a node device obtained by adding an optical signal amplification unit to the FTTH function unit in the composite node device 30B. As the optical signal amplifier, for example, an EDFA (Erbium-Doped Optical Fiber Amplifier) can be used. The composite node device 30C is a composite node device in which the HFC function unit is removed from the composite node device 30B described above.

  The GE-PON-ONU 60 is a data line terminator that converts optical signals including communication signals and electrical signals, and multiplexes / demultiplexes optical signals. The V-ONU 65 is a data line termination device that converts an optical signal including a video signal and an electrical signal, and multiplexes / separates the optical signal. The CM 70 is a data line termination device for transmitting and receiving communication signals using a cable television transmission path. The STB 75 is a device for receiving a cable television broadcast signal and converting it into a signal that can be viewed on a general television receiver. The television receiver 80 is a device that reproduces broadcast signals as video and audio.

(B) Description of operation of the embodiment of the present invention

  In the cable television system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, HFC can be converted to FTTH in stages, and a transmission path in which HFC and FTTH coexist can be constructed. That is, in the cable television system according to the embodiment of the present invention, the cell division of the transmission line is optimized, and a transmission line corresponding to HFC, HFC / FTTH coexistence, FTTH, etc. is provided for each cell according to the needs of the subscriber. Can be built. In this case, since it is basically necessary to opticalize (FTTH) as much as necessary in an area having a common service request, it is not necessary to convert a large area to FTTH at a time, and the capital investment for FTTH conversion can be suppressed. It is also possible to move the HFC cell to FTTH at a low cost. That is, the cable television system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention is a system that can gradually convert the HFC to FTTH.

  A characteristic of the cable television system according to the embodiment of the present invention is that “equal capital investment” is possible. The needs of cable TV subscribers are very varied, such as when only re-broadcasting is desired, when multi-channel viewing is desired, and when high-speed communication is desired. In many cases, there is a difference in needs for each cell which is a set of subscribers, and it is not an optimal method to provide a uniform service in all areas. Even now, roughly suitable transmission lines are constructed according to the demands of subscribers, but by subdividing them, an optimal and highly efficient system is built on the premise of coexistence of various services. can do.

  In the cable television system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention, a system corresponding to the characteristics of the needs of cable television subscribers can be constructed for each cell. Then, the FTTH conversion can be performed step by step for each cell toward the final goal of complete FTTH conversion. In addition, the existing system can be fully utilized in the middle of the FTTH conversion. For this reason, it can be avoided that the capital investment for FTTH conversion is concentrated at one time. Especially for large-scale cable television operators such as MSO (Multiple Systems Operator), it is difficult to make full FTTH at a stretch because the capital investment for FTTH will be huge, so it is difficult to make full FTTH at once. If system 1 is used, the capital investment of FTTH conversion can be equalized.

  Various transmission paths such as HFC, HFC / FTTH coexistence, and FTTH can be realized by the composite node devices 30, 30A, 30B, and 30C. The composite node devices 30, 30A, 30B, and 30C are the devices that are the center of the present invention. One device can cope with six or more types of transmission paths. By using this, it is possible to shift the transmission line format such as the shift from HFC to FTTH with a minimum of capital investment. It is possible to flexibly respond to the upgrade of transmission lines toward complete FTTH at low cost.

  In the cable television system according to the embodiment of the present invention, six types of transmission line formats can be constructed according to the needs of each cell. That is, there are six types of transmission line formats from “type 1” to “type 6” that can be constructed in the cable television system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  First, Type 1 aims at “advancement of HFC”. Services that can be provided to subscribers are digital broadcasting including video re-broadcasting, and DOCSIS (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications) (40 Mbps to 1 Gbps) and voice communication (telephone). That is, the purpose of this transmission line format is to make the HFC minimal cells based on DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.1, which will be put into practical use in 2014-2015, enables Gbps services even in HFC. Also, 4K (Kilo) TV signal transmission can be performed. With the miniaturization of cells according to the present embodiment, it is possible to prepare for future high-speed communication services, and at the same time, toughen aging coaxial cable equipment and to partially remove coaxial cables.

  Type 2 is aimed at “combination of HFC and FTTH”. The video is digital broadcast including rebroadcast, and communication is PON (1 Gbps) and voice communication (telephone). At present, it is desirable that a cell having a large communication heavy user ratio, such as an HFC 160 Mbps service user, be converted to FTTH for the next service plan. In a miniaturized cell, a Gbps PON service can be provided to a heavy user. If the composite node device 30B is used, it is possible to construct from type 2 from the beginning or to migrate from type 1.

  Type 3 aims at “step transition to FTTH”. The video is digital broadcasting including rebroadcast and BS / CS pass-through, and the communication is PON (1 Gbps) and voice communication (telephone). For example, the 2014 World Cup, the Winter Olympics, the Olympics 2 and 6 years later, and large sports events are scheduled in the future, but the replacement of users who purchased digital television receivers in the early days has begun. The number of 4K television receivers is expected to increase gradually. For this reason, there is a possibility that the number of cable TV subscribers requesting BS pass-through transmission will increase rapidly. In response to such needs, Type 3 provides BS pass-through and PON services that can be expected to increase ARPU (Average Revenue Per User) (monthly telecommunications business revenue).

  Type 4 aims at “mixing HFC households (two-way) and FTTH households”. In HFC households, video provides digital broadcasting, including rebroadcasting, and communication provides DOCSIS and telephone. In FTTH households, video is digital broadcasting including rebroadcast and BS pass-through, and communication is PON and telephone. Even in a cell in which FTTH conversion is in progress, for example, a light user who says “communication is sufficient at 10 Mbps” or “video only needs re-broadcasting” may not be easily switched to FTTH. In Type 4, instead of forcibly removing the existing coaxial equipment and converting it to FTTH, the existing coaxial equipment can be utilized and converted to light from the switched coaxial simulline. It is a miniaturized cell to flexibly advance the trunk coaxial removal and FTTH.

  Type 5 aims at Type 4 “HFC households are one-way”. For example, subscribers who say that “only re-broadcasting services can be used and communication is not necessary” and FTTH households can coexist and FTTH can be flexibly advanced. The cable television system according to the embodiment of the present invention is a system solution that combines HFC technology and FTTH technology.

  And the last type 6 aims at extending FTTH to new areas, such as a new residential area, for example. In this case, digital broadcasting and BS pass-through including re-broadcasting can be provided to subscribers, and PON and telephone services can be provided to subscribers.

  From 2014, there is a high possibility that 4K / 8K will be further closed. For example, in anticipation of the Tokyo Olympics, it can be said that 4K / 8K will eventually become the leading role. There is a possibility that IP (Internet Protocol) may be used for the transmission. For this purpose, it is necessary to further increase the speed of the cable television transmission path. It is very important for cable TV operators to show their attitude of being able to provide FTTH services, which is expected to stimulate demand for cable TV. In the cable television system 1 according to the present invention, it is possible to level the capital investment for the FTTH conversion, and therefore it is possible to meet such needs.

(C) Description of Detailed Configuration of Embodiment of the Present Invention Next, a detailed embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a detailed embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 2, the cable television system 1 according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an HE 10, an optical transmission line 20, a composite node device 30, a coaxial transmission line 400, an optical transmission line 500, STB 406, CM 407, V- It has ONUs 504 and 513 and D-ONU (Data Optical Network Unit) 514.

  The HE 10 includes a LAN (Local Area Network) 101, a personal computer 102 as an FTTx manager, a node monitoring compatible FSK (Frequency Shift Keying) transmission unit 103, an RS485 bus 104, a CMTS (Cable Modem Termination System) mixed distribution system 105, a CATV video. 1. Mixed distribution system 106, 1 GHz-Tx 107, 108, SW (Switch) 109, R-Rx 110, 111, LAN / 485 converters 112, 121, CATV video + BS (Broadcast Satellite) -IF (Intermediate Frequency) signal 122,2. 6 GHz-Tx 123 and 124, OSW (Optical Switch) 125, EDFA 126, OSP (Optical Splitter) 127, LAN 130, personal computer 131 as a GE-PON controller, SV (Supervisor) 132, PONs 134-1 to 134-n And CWDM (Coarse Wavelength Division Multiplexing) TRx 135-1 to 135-n, PON function unit 133, CWDM 136, FDF (Fiber Distributing Frame) 137, and the like.

  Here, the LAN 101 is an information line that enables exchange of information with the personal computer 102, the node monitoring compatible FSK transmission unit 103, and others. The personal computer 102 controls transmission of information by FTTH or FTTP. The node monitoring compatible FSK transmission unit 103 transmits information for monitoring the composite node device 30. The RS485 bus 104 is a signal line that transmits a serial signal. The CMTS mixed distribution system 105 operates as a head end when exchanging information between a cable modem disposed at a subscriber's home and the Internet. The CATV video mixing / distributing system 106 superimposes broadcast signals of a plurality of channels and superimposes and outputs a node monitoring signal transmitted from the node monitoring compatible FSK transmission unit 103. The 1 GHz-Tx 107 and 108 convert an electrical signal in the 70 to 1030 MHz band supplied from the CATV video mixing and distribution system 106 into an optical signal, and output the optical signal to the optical transmission line 20 as a downstream optical signal. The band of the electric signal supplied from the CATV video mixing / distributing system 106 is not limited to the above, and an upper limit and a lower limit of the band may be set as necessary. 1 GHz-Tx 107 and 108 are duplexed, one operating as a working system and the other operating as a standby system. The SW 109 selects an uplink signal received by either one of the R-Rx 110 and the R-Rx 111 and supplies it to the CMTS mixing / distributing system 105. The R-Rx 110 and 111 receive the upstream optical signal, convert it into an electrical signal, and output it to the SW 109. Note that R-Rx 110 and 111 are also duplexed, one operating as the active system and the other operating as the standby system.

  The LAN / 485 conversion unit 112 converts the data representation format in order to exchange information between the LAN 101 and the RS485 bus 104. Similarly, the LAN / 485 conversion unit 121 converts the data representation format in order to exchange information between the LAN 101 and the RS485 bus 120. The CATV video + BS-IF signal 122 is output by superimposing the CATV broadcast signal and the BS intermediate frequency (IF) signal. 2.6 GHz-Tx 123 and 124 convert the broadcast signal output from the CATV video + BS-IF signal 122 into an optical signal and output the optical signal. Note that 2.6 GHz-Tx 123 and 124 are duplexed, one operating as the active system and the other operating as the standby system. The OSW 125 selects an optical signal output from any one of 2.6 GHz-Tx 123 and 124 and outputs the selected optical signal to the EDFA 126. The EDFA 126 amplifies the optical signal output from the OSW 125 and outputs it to the OSP 127. The OSP 127 bisects and outputs the optical signal output from the EDFA 126. The optical signal output from the OSP 127 is input to the OSW 322 of the composite node device 30 via the duplexed optical transmission line 20.

  The LAN 130 is an information line for exchanging information between the personal computer 131 and the SV 132. The personal computer 131 functions as a controller that controls the GE-PON. The SV 132 monitors the state of the PON function unit 133 and notifies the personal computer 131 of the monitored result. The PON function unit 133 includes PONs 134-1 to 134-n and CWDM TRx 135-1 to 135-n, and transmits and receives optical signals having wavelengths λ1 to λ2n. More specifically, the PON 134-1 and the CWDM 135-1 transmit the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2 and receive the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ1. The PON 134-2 and the CWDM 135-2 transmit the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ4 and receive the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ3. The PON 134-n and the CWDM 135-n transmit the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2n-1 and receive the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2n. Note that n is a natural number. The CWDM 136 combines downstream optical signals having wavelengths λ2, λ4,..., Λ2n output from the PON function unit 133 and outputs them to the FDF 137, and wavelengths λ1, λ3,. The upstream optical signal of λ2n−1 is demultiplexed and supplied to the CWDM TRx 135-1 to 135-n. The FDF 137 is a distribution rack for selecting one of the duplexed optical transmission lines 20.

  The composite node device 30 is configured such that an HFC function unit 33 is accommodated in a main body 31 of a casing, and an FTTH function unit including an optical signal amplification unit 34 and an optical signal processing unit 35 is accommodated in a lid 32 of the casing. Is done. The HFC function unit 33 accommodated in the main unit 31 includes BC Rx-A301, BC Rx-B302, SW303, downlink amplification unit 304, input / output unit 305, monitoring control unit 306, FSK DEM (Demodulation) unit 307, FSK MOD. (Modulation) unit 308, uplink amplification unit 309, and R-Tx 310 and 311 are included.

  The BC Rx-A 301 receives a downstream optical signal transmitted from the 1 GHz-Tx 107 via the optical transmission line 20, converts it into an electrical signal, and outputs it to the SW 303. The BC Rx-B 302 receives the downstream optical signal transmitted from the 1 GHz-Tx 108 via the optical transmission path 20, converts it into an electrical signal, and outputs it to the SW 303. The connection of the SW 303 is switched in accordance with the control of the monitoring control unit 306, and one of the outputs of BC Rx-A 301 and BC Rx-B 302 is selected and output to the downlink amplification unit 304. The downstream amplification unit 304 amplifies the electrical signal output from the SW 303 and supplies the amplified electrical signal to the input / output unit 305. The input / output unit 305 outputs the electrical signals output from the downstream amplification unit 304 from the four ports 1 to 4 and supplies the signals input from the ports 1 to 4 to the upstream amplification unit 309. The monitoring control unit 306 controls each unit of the apparatus, monitors each unit, acquires state information, and transmits the status information to the HE 10. The FSK DEM unit 307 demodulates the signal subjected to FSK modulation transmitted from the node monitoring-compatible FSK transmission unit 103 of the HE 10 and supplies the demodulated signal to the monitoring control unit 306. The FSK MOD unit 308 performs FSK modulation on the state information supplied from the monitoring control unit 306 and transmits it to the HE 10 via the uplink amplification unit 309. The upstream amplification unit 309 amplifies the electrical signal input from the input / output unit 305 and the signal including the state information subjected to FSK modulation and supplies the amplified signal to the R-Tx 310 and 311. The R-Tx 310 converts the electrical signal supplied from the upstream amplification unit 309 into an optical signal and transmits the optical signal to the HE 10 via the optical transmission line 20. Similarly, the R-Tx 311 converts the electrical signal supplied from the upstream amplification unit 309 into an optical signal and transmits the optical signal to the HE 10 via the optical transmission line 20.

  The optical signal amplifier 34 includes an optical switch unit 320, an optical amplifier unit 330, and a coupler unit 340. The optical signal processing unit 35 includes a WDM unit 350 and a repeater unit 360. The optical switch unit 320 includes a monitoring control unit 321 and an OSW 322. The monitoring control unit 321 controls the OSW 322, monitors its state, and notifies the monitoring control unit 306 as state information. The OSW 322 selects one of the downstream optical signals transmitted via the duplexed optical transmission line 20 and supplies the selected signal to the EDFA 332. The optical amplification unit 330 includes a monitoring control unit 331 and an EDFA 332. The monitoring control unit 331 controls the EDFA 332, monitors its state, and notifies the monitoring control unit 306 as state information. The EDFA 332 amplifies the optical signal output from the OSW 322 and supplies it to the 3OSP 341. The 3OSP 341 constituting the coupler unit 340 divides the optical signal output from the EDFA 332 into three parts and outputs the signal. The WDM unit 350 has 2OSP351 and CWDM352. The 2OSP 351 bisects the upstream optical signal output from the CWDM 352 and outputs it to the duplexed optical transmission line 20, and combines and outputs the downstream optical signal supplied from the duplexed optical transmission line 20. The CWDM 352 demultiplexes the downstream optical signal output from the 2OSP 351 according to the wavelength and supplies the demultiplexed optical signal to the CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n, and combines the upstream optical signal supplied from the CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n. Wave and supply to 2OSP351. The repeater unit 360 includes a monitoring control unit 361, CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n, a signal processing unit 363, and an OLT (Optical Line Terminal) TRx 364-1 to 364-n. The monitoring control unit 361 controls the signal processing unit 363, monitors its state, and notifies the monitoring control unit 306 as state information. The CWDM TRx 362-1 receives the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ1 and transmits the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2. The CWDM TRx 364-2 receives the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ3 and transmits the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ4. The CWDM TRx 364-n receives the downstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2n−1 and transmits the upstream optical signal having the wavelength λ2n. The signal processing unit 363 performs waveform shaping processing on the signal supplied from the CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n and supplies the signal to the OLT TRx 364-1 to 364-n and also supplied from the OLT TRx 364-1 to 364-n. The signal is subjected to waveform shaping processing and supplied to CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n. The OLT TRx 364-1 to 364-n are termination devices arranged in the composite type node device 30, convert an optical signal transmitted from the terminal device into an electrical signal, supply the electrical signal to the signal processing unit 363, and perform signal processing The electrical signal supplied from the unit 363 is converted into an optical signal and supplied to the terminal device. Note that the PON 134-1 to 134-n and the CWDM TRx 135-1 to 135-n can be attached to and detached from the PON function unit 133, respectively, and the CWDM TRx 362-1 to 360-n and the OLT TRx 364-1 to 364-n. However, it may be configured to be detachable from the repeater unit 360. By adopting such a configuration, the maximum number of terminal devices capable of transmitting and receiving optical signals can be increased by adding a set of PON 133-n, CWDM TRx135-n, CWDM TRx362-n, and OLT TRx364-n. Can do. More specifically, for example, when the maximum number of terminal apparatuses capable of transmitting and receiving optical signals in a set of PON 133-n, CWDM TRx135-n, CWDM TRx362-n, and OLT TRx364-n is 64, n is 1 -4, the maximum number of terminal devices that can transmit and receive an optical signal by one optical signal processing unit 360 can be any of 64, 128, 192, and 256.

  The optical signal amplifier 34 is configured to be detachable, and is attached by connecting a connector (not shown) provided on the optical signal amplifier 34 to a connector (not shown) provided on the lid 32 of the housing. In addition, it can be removed by removing these connectors. Similarly, the optical signal processing unit 35 is configured to be detachable, and is mounted by connecting a connector (not shown) provided on the optical signal processing unit 35 to a connector (not shown) provided on the lid 32 of the housing. In addition, it can be removed by removing these connectors. In addition to the connector, a support unit that physically supports the optical signal amplification unit 34 may be provided, and the optical signal amplification unit 34 may be supported by the support unit and electrically connected by the connector. Similarly, the optical signal processing unit 35 may be provided with a support unit that physically supports the optical signal processing unit 35. The optical signal processing unit 35 may be supported by the support unit and electrically connected by a connector.

  The coaxial transmission line 400 includes tap-offs 401, 402, and 404 and an amplification unit 403, and transmits an electrical signal through a coaxial cable. The optical transmission line 500 includes optical couplers 501, 502, 510, and 511, and transmits an optical signal through an optical fiber. The STB 406 disposed in the subscriber's home 405 is a device for receiving a cable television broadcast signal and converting it into a signal that can be viewed on a general television receiver. Similarly, a CM 407 disposed in the subscriber's home 405 is a data line terminating device for transmitting and receiving communication signals using the coaxial transmission line 400. A V-ONU 504 arranged in a building 503 such as a condominium or an office building is an optical subscriber line terminating device that converts an optical signal including a video signal into an electric signal. The same applies to the V-ONU 513 arranged in the subscriber's house 512. The D-ONU 514 disposed in the subscriber's house 512 is an optical subscriber line termination device that converts an optical signal including a communication signal into an electrical signal, and multiplexes / demultiplexes the optical signal to transmit / receive the optical signal. .

(D) Description of Detailed Operation of Embodiment of the Present Invention Next, detailed operation of the embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an existing cable television system before the composite node device 30 according to the present embodiment is introduced. As shown in FIG. 3, in the existing cable television system, an existing node device 90 is arranged with respect to the optical transmission line 20. The existing node device 90 converts an optical signal transmitted from the HE 10 through the optical transmission path 20 into an electrical signal, outputs the electrical signal to the coaxial transmission path 91, and also from the subscriber home 601 and the building 701 through the coaxial transmission path 91. The electrical signal transmitted in this way is converted into an optical signal and output to the optical transmission line 20. In the subscriber house 601, an electric signal transmitted through the coaxial transmission line 91 is input via the protector 55, a broadcast signal is extracted by the STB 75, and video and audio are reproduced by the television receiver 80. Further, a communication signal is extracted by a CM EMTA (Embedded Media Terminal Adapter) 70 and supplied to the personal computer 81, and an audio signal is extracted and supplied to the telephone 82. In the subscriber house 602, an electric signal transmitted through the coaxial transmission path 91 is input via the protector 55 and is reproduced by the television receiver 80. In the building 701, an electrical signal transmitted through the coaxial transmission line 91 is input via the protector 55, a broadcast signal is extracted by the STB 75, and video and audio are reproduced by the television receiver 80. In addition, a communication signal is extracted by the router 71 and supplied to the personal computer 81, and an audio signal is extracted and supplied to the telephone 82. As a result, the subscriber home 601 can demand three types of services (HFC triple service) of CATV broadcasting, communication, and telephone via the HFC. In addition, the subscriber's home 602 can watch the rebroadcast of the digital terrestrial broadcasting.

  FIG. 4 shows an embodiment corresponding to type 1 in which a composite node device 30A in which the FTTH function unit is excluded from the composite node device 30 shown in FIG. 2 is introduced. In the example of FIG. 4, the existing node device 90 shown in FIG. 3 is replaced with a closure 95. A composite node device 30 </ b> A is connected to the downstream side of the closure 95. An ellipse that is hatched in the closure 95 indicates a broadcast signal, and an ellipse that is not hatched indicates a communication signal. In this example, as described above, the optical signal amplifier 34 and the optical signal processor 35 are not attached to the lid 32 of the composite node device 30A. The optical signal output from the closure 95 is converted into an electrical signal by BC Rx-A301 or BC Rx-B302 of the composite node device 30A, amplified by the downstream amplification unit 304, and then coaxially transmitted through the input / output unit 305. It is output to the transmission path 91. In the subscriber 601, the electric signal transmitted through the coaxial transmission path 91 is input by the same configuration as that of FIG. 3 described above, and the broadcast signal, the communication signal, and the audio signal are extracted, and the television receiver 80, Playback is performed by the personal computer 81 and the telephone 82. In addition, the subscriber's home 602 can receive an electric signal transmitted through the coaxial transmission line 91 and view the rebroadcast by the television receiver 80. In the building 701, the optical signal supplied from the closure 95 by the ONU 56 is converted into an electrical signal and supplied to the STB 75 and the router 71. As a result, the broadcast can be viewed by the television receiver 80 and communication can be performed by the personal computer 81. In addition, a voice call can be performed by the telephone 82. As described above, in Type 1, the composite node device 30A in which the optical signal amplification unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 are not mounted is introduced into the lid portion 32, and the existing node device 90 is replaced with the closure 95. Thus, the electric transmission path can be switched to the optical transmission path while effectively using the existing optical transmission path 20. At that time, the trunk coaxial cable can be partially removed. Furthermore, when the composite node device 30A is introduced, by adjusting the number of terminal devices located thereunder, the number of terminal devices constituting the cell can be reduced, and the cell can be minimized.

  Next, an embodiment corresponding to type 2 described above will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 5, parts corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 5, compared to FIG. 4, subscriber homes 603, 611, and 612 are newly added, and the composite node device 30B is introduced on the upstream side of the subscriber homes 603, 611, and 612. Other configurations are the same as those in FIG. Here, in the composite node device 30B, the optical signal processing unit 35 is attached to the lid 32 of the composite node shown in FIG. 2, and the optical signal amplification unit 34 is not attached. When the composite node device 30A shown in FIG. 4 is changed to the composite node device 30B, for example, an operator opens the lid portion 32, and a connector (not shown) of the optical signal processing unit 35 is provided on the lid portion 32. It can be easily changed by mounting by connecting to a connector (not shown). In the example of FIG. 5, the composite node device 30 </ b> B receives a broadcast signal from the HE 10 via BC Rx-A 301 or BC Rx-B 302, converts the broadcast signal into an electrical signal, and then sends the signal to the coaxial transmission line 91. The composite node device 30B receives the optical signal transmitted from the PON function unit 133 of the HE 10 by the optical signal processing unit 35, shapes the waveform by signal processing by the signal processing unit 363, and then performs OLT TRx 364-1 to 364. -N is converted into an optical signal and supplied to the subscriber homes 603, 611, and 612 via the closure 95. In the subscriber's house 603, a broadcast signal is input from the coaxial transmission line 91 via the protector 55 and the STB 75, and is reproduced by the television receiver 80. Further, an optical signal including a communication signal and an audio signal is input via the GE-PON ONU 60, the communication signal is supplied to the personal computer 81 via the router 71, and the audio signal is supplied to the telephone 82. According to such a configuration, by mounting the optical signal processing unit 35 on the composite node device 30A, only the operator's simple work can be performed on the subscriber homes under the composite node device. High-speed EPON service can be provided. As a result, the service plan can be enhanced and the subscriber can be encouraged to move to FTTH. Further, if so-called “heavy users” who desire high-speed communication are about 10% of the total, if there are 200 households under the node device, since there are about 20 users who desire service, HE10 The cost-effectiveness of drawing an optical cable from the cable is limited. However, in this embodiment, by adding the optical signal processing unit 35 to the lid portion 32 of the composite type node, it is possible to answer the needs of these users while reducing costs.

  Next, an embodiment corresponding to type 3 described above will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 6, parts corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 6, compared to FIG. 5, a subscriber home 604 is newly added, and the composite node device 30 is introduced upstream of the subscriber home 604. Other configurations are the same as those in FIG. Here, the composite node device 30 is in a state in which both the optical signal amplifying unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 shown in FIG. 2 are mounted. In the subscriber's house 604, the optical signal output from the optical signal processing unit 35 of the composite node device 30 is input via the closure 95 and the GE-PON ONU 60 and supplied to the personal computer 81 and the telephone 82 via the router 71. To do. In the subscriber's house 604, an optical signal output from the optical signal amplifying unit 34 of the composite node device 30 is input via the closure 95 and the V-ONU 65 and supplied to the television receiver 80. Note that the television receiver 80 can receive and play back digital terrestrial broadcasts, and can also receive BS digital broadcast radio waves directly with a tuner built in the television receiver 80. A so-called BS pass-through that is transmitted as it is can be received and reproduced. In this way, by using the composite node device 30 having the optical signal amplifying unit 34, it is possible to pinpoint the service by BS pass-through to the subordinate subscriber's home, so the video service plan is expanded. Can be made.

  Next, an embodiment corresponding to type 4 described above will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 7, parts corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 7, compared with FIG. 6, subscriber homes 613 to 616 are newly added, and a closure 95 is added upstream of the subscriber homes 613 to 616, and the composite node device 30 is excluded. . The other configuration is the same as in the case of FIG. In the configuration of FIG. 7, the subscriber homes 611 to 616 are FTTHed, and fiber enrichment by FTTH is progressing. In addition, subscriber homes 611 to 616 can view not only terrestrial digital broadcasting but also BS pass-through by using FTTH. In addition, in the building 701, a service by FTTP (Fiber To The Premises) can be demanded. Further, the building 701 and the subscriber's house 616 can enjoy the services of FTTP and FTTH, respectively, through the same optical transmission line. That is, the optical transmission path of FTTP and FTTH can be shared.

  Next, an embodiment corresponding to type 5 described above will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 8, portions corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 8, compared to FIG. 7, the subscriber node 602 that demands the rebroadcast service and the composite node device 30 </ b> A on the upstream side of the subscriber home 605 are replaced with the one-way node device 40. The other configuration is the same as that of FIG. Here, the one-way node device 40 is a one-way (downward) node device that can provide only terrestrial digital rebroadcasting and CATV independent broadcasting. As the one-way node device 40, for example, a composite node device 30A can be used. In such a case, the processing related to the upstream signal may not be performed in the main body 31 as necessary. In the example of FIG. 8, FTTH conversion is progressing in the entire cable television system. However, some subscribers demand only rebroadcast services and do not use communications. For such subscribers, the need for the one-way node device 40, which is a one-way node device that does not support communication, can be used even when the entire cable television system has been converted to FTTH. It can correspond to. In types 4 and 5, the transmission path is FTTH, but some subscribers are not allowed to switch services, so in the mixed form of FTTH and HFC where the HFC remains, one core of the video signal of the FTTH transmission path is used. Thus, the composite node device 30A is arranged. Since types 4 and 5 are FTTH transmission paths, the video system can be connected to, for example, as many subscribers as there are optical coupler branches per core. Therefore, for example, by connecting the composite node device 30A to the other one core of the FTTH transmission path, a bidirectional node can be realized. In addition, the above-described type 4 can extend the life of the HFC while removing the coaxial line of the trunk line.

  Next, an embodiment corresponding to type 6 described above will be described with reference to FIG. In FIG. 9, parts corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 9, compared to FIG. 8, the unidirectional node device 40 is excluded, the composite node device 30 </ b> C is connected, and FTTH is extended to, for example, an emerging residential area through the closure 95. Other configurations are the same as those in FIG. Here, the composite node device 30C is in a state in which the optical signal amplifying unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 are mounted in FIG. 2, and among the HFC function unit 33, the monitoring control unit 306, the FSK MOD unit 308, The configuration except for the upstream amplification unit 309 and the R-Tx 310 is excluded. The composite node device 30C can be directly connected to the optical transmission line 20. When the composite node device 30 shown in FIG. 6 is changed to the composite node device 30C, for example, an operator opens the lid portion 32, and from an unillustrated connector provided in the main body portion 31, the HFC function portion 33 This can be easily changed by removing a connector (not shown). By using such a composite node device 30C, for example, FTTH can be easily extended to an emerging residential area or the like. As a result, CATV digital rebroadcasting, BS pass-through, PON, and telephone services can be provided to subscribers such as emerging residential areas.

  In addition, in the above description, although the example which implements types 1-6 in order was given and demonstrated, of course, depending on a cell, it is not the order of types 1-6, but it implemented from these in the middle, or one part It may be performed in a different order. For example, it is possible to implement from type 2 or to move from type 3 to type 2. Also, it is possible to provide a type 1-6 cable television system for one optical transmission line 20. In such a case, the cable television system can be supplied more flexibly according to various requests of subscribers. It is also possible to select a starting type according to the strategy of each CATV operator. For example, a business operator who “does not make a very small cell but wants to enhance the communication service” can start from type 2. In addition, in this embodiment, when subscribers who desire BS / CS pass-through are concentrated, it is possible to start from any type instead of starting from type 3 one by one, such as starting from type 3. Leveraging its great features, operators can flexibly provide services. In addition, it is a feature of this embodiment that the existing HFC service can be utilized to the maximum extent.

  In the above embodiment, the input level range of the optical signal received by the HFC function unit 33 may be appropriately set as necessary. For example, when used for type 1 to 3 cable television systems, it is also used for the purpose of increasing the capacity of HFC and enhancing the system performance, so that the C / N ratio can be secured sufficiently, for example, +2 -4 dBm, and in types 4 to 6, -12 dBm, which is about the same as V-ONU, may be used as the lower limit of the input level range.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 10, processing executed in the composite node devices 30, 30A, 30B, and 30C will be described. Hereinafter, in order to simplify the description, the composite node device 30 will be described as an example. The personal computer 102 of the HE 10 illustrated in FIG. 2 requests the node monitoring compatible FSK transmission unit 103 to notify the subordinate composite type node device 30 of different times. As a result, the node monitoring compatible FSK transmission unit 103 generates different time information for each of the composite node devices 30, and the composite node device 30 via the CATV video mixed distribution system 106 and the 1 GHz-Tx 107 and 108. Send to. In the composite node device 30, such time information is received by the BC Rx-A 301 or BC Rx-B 302, amplified by the downlink amplification unit 304, demodulated by the FSK DEM unit 307, and supplied to the monitoring control unit 306. . The monitoring control unit 306 recognizes the received time information as the time at which the own device transmits the status information, and stores the information in a memory (not shown). In such a state, the following processing is executed.

  In step S10, the monitoring control unit 306 determines whether or not a predetermined time has been reached. If the predetermined time has been reached (step S10: Yes), the process proceeds to step S11, and otherwise (step S10: No) terminates the process. More specifically, the monitoring control unit 306 compares the current time information supplied from a timer (not shown) with the time information received from the HE 10 and stored in a memory (not shown). Determines that the predetermined time has come, and proceeds to step S11.

  In step S11, the monitoring control unit 306 determines whether or not the HFC function unit 33 is equipped. If it is determined that the HFC function unit 33 is equipped (step S11: Yes), the process proceeds to step S12. In (Step S11: No), it progresses to Step S13. In addition, as a method for determining whether or not the HFC function unit 33 is equipped, for example, it is determined from the presence or absence of the output of the FSK DEM unit 307, or when the HFC function unit 33 is equipped, a predetermined method is used. It is possible to make a judgment from the state of this contact, or to make a judgment from the state of this switch by making the operator operate the switch when installing. Of course, other methods may be used.

  In step S12, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires state information of the HFC function unit. More specifically, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires, for example, downstream light intensity, upstream light intensity, and downstream RF output level as state information of the HFC function unit.

  In step S13, the monitoring control unit 306 determines whether or not the optical signal processing unit 35 is equipped. If it is determined that the optical signal processing unit 35 is equipped (step S13: Yes), the process proceeds to step S14. In the case (step S13: No), the process proceeds to step S15. As a method for determining whether or not the optical signal processing unit 35 is equipped, for example, an inquiry is made to the optical signal processing unit 35 to determine whether there is a response, or the optical signal processing unit 35 is equipped. In such a case, a predetermined contact may be closed and judged from the state of the contact, or a switch may be operated by an operator when installing, and the judgment may be made from the state of the switch. it can. Of course, other methods may be used.

  In step S <b> 14, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires state information of the optical signal processing unit 35. Specifically, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires, for example, status information indicating a transmission / reception level from the monitoring control unit 361.

  In step S15, the monitoring control unit 306 determines whether or not the optical signal amplification unit 34 is equipped. If it is determined that the optical signal amplification unit 34 is equipped (step S15: Yes), the process proceeds to step S16. In the case (step S15: No), the process proceeds to step S17. As a method for determining whether or not the optical signal amplifying unit 34 is equipped, the same method as the optical signal processing unit 35 described above can be used.

  In step S <b> 16, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires state information of the optical signal amplification unit 34. Specifically, the monitoring control unit 306 acquires status information indicating the output level of the EDFA 332 from the monitoring control units 321 and 331, for example.

  In step S <b> 17, the monitoring control unit 306 transmits the acquired state information to the HE 10. More specifically, the monitoring control unit 306 supplies the status information acquired in steps S11, S13, and S15 to the FSK MOD unit 308. The FSK MOD unit 308 performs FSK modulation on the state information acquired from the monitoring control unit 306 and transmits the state information to the HE 10 via the uplink amplification unit 309 and the R-Tx 310 and 311. In the HE 10, status information is received by the R-Rx 110 and 111 and supplied to the personal computer 102 via the LAN / 485 conversion unit 112 and the LAN 101. The personal computer 102 determines whether or not the composite node device 30 is normal based on the received status information, and if abnormal, information for specifying the composite node device and an abnormality Information indicating the location can be presented.

  Note that the processing shown in FIG. 10 is executed at different times in each of the composite node devices 30, so that even when a plurality of composite node devices 30 are connected, transmission timing may collide. Status information can be transmitted to the HE 10.

  As described above, according to the processing shown in FIG. 10, the state of the composite node device 30 can be monitored centrally by the HE 10. In the process of FIG. 10, it is determined whether or not the optical signal amplifying unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 are attached to the composite node device 30, and the state information is acquired based on the determination result. Even if one or both of these are not mounted, the state information can be acquired. In addition, you may make it include the information which shows the mounting state of the optical signal amplification part 34 and the optical signal processing part 35 as state information. According to such a configuration, it is possible to accurately know the mounting state of the composite node device 30 in the HE 10.

(E) Description of Modified Embodiment The above embodiment is an example, and it is needless to say that the present invention is not limited to the case as described above. For example, although EPON or GE-PON has been described as an example in the above embodiment, for example, Docsis (Data Over Cable Service Interface Specifications) may be used.

  Further, the configuration shown in FIG. 2 is an example, and other configurations may be used. For example, although the input / output unit 305 has four ports, it may be three or less or five or more. The optical signal amplifying unit 34 is composed of three units of the optical switch unit 320, the optical amplifying unit 330, and the coupler unit 340. However, the optical signal amplifying unit 34 is composed of two or less units or four or more units. You may make it do. In addition, the optical signal processing unit 35 is configured by two units of the WDM unit 350 and the repeater unit 360, but may be configured by one unit or two or more units.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a modified embodiment. In FIG. 11, parts corresponding to those in FIG. In FIG. 11, compared with FIG. 2, PONs 134-1 to 134-n of HE10 are replaced with M / C (Media Converter) 138-1 to 138-n. Further, the signal processing unit 363 is excluded from the composite type node device 30, M / C 365-1 to 365-n are added to the subsequent stage of CWDM TRx 362-1 to 362-n, and the preceding stage of OLT TRx 364-1 to 364-n. PON 366-1 to 366 -n are added. In addition, the monitoring control unit 361 monitors the status of the PONs 366-1 to 366 -n and the M / C 365-1 to 365 -n and notifies the monitoring control unit 306. Other configurations are the same as those in FIG. Even with such a configuration, the same function as in FIG. 2 can be exhibited.

  In the above embodiment, the optical signal amplifying unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 can be attached to and detached from the lid 32 by a connector. However, not only the connector but also a support unit that supports these substrates is provided, and the support unit is provided. In addition to being physically connected by the connector, it may be electrically connected by a connector. Similarly, the HFC function unit 33 can be attached to and detached from the main body unit 31 by a connector. However, not only the connector but also a support unit that supports these substrates is provided and physically connected by the support unit. You may make it connect electrically. Further, since the power consumption is increased by providing the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, and the optical signal processing unit 35, the power supply unit may be additionally installed. When the power supply unit can be expanded, the power supply unit that supplies power to each of the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, and the optical signal processing unit 35 is referred to as the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, the optical The signal processing unit 35 may be integrated with each other or may be detachable.

  Moreover, in the above embodiment, in the housing having the main body portion and the lid portion, the HFC function portion 33 is accommodated in the main body portion, and the optical signal amplification portion 34 and the optical signal processing portion 35 are accommodated in the lid portion. However, other configurations may be used. For example, the optical signal amplifier 34 and the optical signal processor 35 may be accommodated in the main body, and the HFC function unit 33 may be accommodated in the lid. In addition, the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, and the optical signal processing unit 35 may be housed in a housing that can be provided together.

  In the above embodiment, the configuration in which the monitoring control unit 306 acquires the status information of the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, and the optical signal processing unit 35 has been described. Any one of them may be configured to acquire state information of the HFC function unit 33, the optical signal amplification unit 34, and the optical signal processing unit 35. Even with such a configuration, the state of the composite node device 30 can be centrally monitored by the HE 10.

  In the above embodiment, the optical signal processing unit 35 is included as the FTTH function unit and the optical signal amplification unit 34 is not included, and the optical signal processing unit 35 and the optical signal amplification unit 34 are included as the FTTH function unit. Although the configuration is shown, a configuration in which the optical signal amplifying unit 34 is included as the FTTH function unit and the optical signal amplifying unit 35 is not included may be used.

  In the above embodiment, a configuration is shown in which at least one optical signal amplification unit 34 and at least one optical signal processing unit 35 are attached to one composite node device. However, in one composite node device, One or a plurality of optical signal amplifying units 34 and optical signal processing units 35 may be mounted. In addition, one composite node device may have a configuration in which one of the optical signal amplifying unit 34 and the optical signal processing unit 35 is plural, and the other is not included.

1 Cable TV system 10 HE (center equipment)
20 Optical transmission line 30, 30A, 30B Composite type node device (node device)
33 HFC function unit 34 Optical signal amplification unit (part of FTTH function unit)
35 Optical signal processing unit (part of FTTH function unit)
60 GE-PON-ONU (terminal equipment)
65 V-ONU (terminal equipment)
70 CM (terminal equipment)
75 STB (terminal equipment)
80 TV receiver (terminal equipment)
95 Closure 306 Monitoring control unit (status acquisition unit)
310, 311 R-Tx (status transmitter)
360 repeater unit (repeater function unit)
360A repeater unit (repeater function unit)

Claims (16)

In the node device in the cable television system having a center device, a node device connected to the center device via an optical transmission line, and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the node device,
An HFC function unit configured to be detachable and transmitting / receiving a signal corresponding to the HFC;
An FTTH function unit configured to be detachable and transmitting / receiving a signal corresponding to FTTH;
When the HFC function unit is installed, the operation status information of the HFC function unit is acquired, and when the FTTH function unit is installed, the operation status information of the FTTH function unit is acquired. A state acquisition unit;
A state transmission unit that transmits the state information acquired by the state acquisition unit to the center device;
A node device comprising at least one of the HFC function unit and the FTTH function unit.   The node device according to claim 1, wherein the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal processing unit.   The node device according to claim 2, wherein the optical signal processing unit includes a repeater function unit.   The node device according to claim 1, wherein the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal amplification unit.   5. The node device according to claim 1, wherein when the FTTH function unit is not attached, the terminal device transmits and receives a signal by the HFC.   5. The device according to claim 1, wherein, when the optical signal processing unit is attached, at least one of the terminal devices transmits and receives a signal through the optical signal processing unit. 6. Node equipment.   5. The node device according to claim 1, wherein when the optical signal amplifying unit is attached, at least one of the terminal devices receives a signal by FTTH. 6.   When the FTTH function unit is mounted, at least one of the terminal devices transmits / receives a signal based on the FTTH, and at least one other terminal device transmits / receives a signal based on FTTP (Fiber To The Premises), 5. The node device according to claim 1, wherein the node device shares the FTTH and the FTTP transmission path. 6. A cable television system having a center device, a node device connected to the center device via an optical transmission line, and a plurality of terminal devices connected to the node device is configured to be detachable and supports HFC An HFC function unit for transmitting and receiving signals;
An FTTH function unit configured to be detachable and transmitting / receiving a signal corresponding to FTTH;
When the HFC function unit is installed, the operation status information of the HFC function unit is acquired, and when the FTTH function unit is installed, the operation status information of the FTTH function unit is acquired. A state acquisition unit;
A state transmission unit that transmits the state information acquired by the state acquisition unit to the center device;
At least one of the HFC function unit and the FTTH function unit is mounted,
A cable television system, wherein a signal transmission / reception mode is selected for each cell formed by the group of terminal devices.   The cable television system according to claim 9, wherein the node device includes an optical signal processing unit.   The cable television system according to claim 10, wherein the optical signal processing unit includes a repeater function unit.   The cable television system according to claim 9, wherein the FTTH function unit includes an optical signal amplification unit.   The cable television system according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the terminal device connected to a node device to which the FTTH function unit is not attached transmits and receives a signal by the HFC.   13. The device according to claim 9, wherein at least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the optical signal processing unit is attached transmits and receives a signal through the optical signal processing unit. A cable television system according to claim 1.   The cable according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein at least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the optical signal amplification unit is attached receives a signal by FTTH. TV system.   At least one of the terminal devices connected to the node device to which the FTTH function unit is attached transmits and receives a signal by the FTTH, and at least one other of the terminal device is by FTTP (Fiber To The Premises). 13. The cable television system according to claim 9, wherein the cable television system transmits and receives a signal and shares a transmission path of the FTTH and the FTTP.

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