US20180324387A1 - Switchable highpass filter for catv return path - Google Patents
Switchable highpass filter for catv return path Download PDFInfo
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- US20180324387A1 US20180324387A1 US16/033,523 US201816033523A US2018324387A1 US 20180324387 A1 US20180324387 A1 US 20180324387A1 US 201816033523 A US201816033523 A US 201816033523A US 2018324387 A1 US2018324387 A1 US 2018324387A1
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- signals
- switch
- catv
- predetermined duration
- upstream
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/10—Adaptations for transmission by electrical cable
- H04N7/102—Circuits therefor, e.g. noise reducers, equalisers, amplifiers
- H04N7/104—Switchers or splitters
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- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N7/00—Television systems
- H04N7/10—Adaptations for transmission by electrical cable
- H04N7/102—Circuits therefor, e.g. noise reducers, equalisers, amplifiers
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client
- H04N21/61—Network physical structure; Signal processing
- H04N21/6106—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the downstream path of the transmission network
- H04N21/6118—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the downstream path of the transmission network involving cable transmission, e.g. using a cable modem
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04N—PICTORIAL COMMUNICATION, e.g. TELEVISION
- H04N21/00—Selective content distribution, e.g. interactive television or video on demand [VOD]
- H04N21/60—Network structure or processes for video distribution between server and client or between remote clients; Control signalling between clients, server and network components; Transmission of management data between server and client, e.g. sending from server to client commands for recording incoming content stream; Communication details between server and client
- H04N21/61—Network physical structure; Signal processing
- H04N21/6156—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the upstream path of the transmission network
- H04N21/6168—Network physical structure; Signal processing specially adapted to the upstream path of the transmission network involving cable transmission, e.g. using a cable modem
Definitions
- Cable television (CATV) networks supply and distribute high frequency “downstream” signals from a main signal distribution facility, known as a “headend,” to premises (e.g., homes and offices) of subscribers.
- the downstream signals can be provided to subscriber equipment, such as televisions, telephones, and computers.
- subscriber equipment such as televisions, telephones, and computers.
- most CATV networks also receive and transmit “upstream” signals from subscriber equipment back to the headend of the CATV network.
- set top boxes can send upstream signals including information for selecting programs for viewing on a television.
- upstream and downstream signals are used by personal computers via modems connected through the CATV infrastructure to the Internet.
- voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) telephones use upstream and downstream signals to communicate telephone conversations.
- VOIP voice over Internet protocol
- the downstream and upstream signals are confined to two different frequency bands.
- the downstream frequency band can be within the range of 54-1002 megahertz (MHz)
- the upstream frequency band can be within the range of 5-42 MHz.
- the upstream frequency band may be susceptible to ingress noise from a variety of sources, both within and exterior to the subscriber's premises.
- the noise may have little effect on an individual subscriber's experience using the network, but can burden the network on the plant-level.
- the source of the noise is exterior to the premises, the source can be addressed by routine maintenance.
- the subscriber's consent is needed for the appropriate remedial measures to be taken. This can be a challenge, because the subscriber may not recognize that the noise is burdening the plant, and thus may have little or no incentive to provide access to the provider.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal.
- the device includes a housing, and an insulator positioned at least partially within the housing, the insulator being configured to receive a cable and to move from a first position to a second position. Connecting the insulator to the cable causes the insulator to move from the first position to the second position.
- the device also includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, and a circuit positioned at least partially within the housing.
- the circuit includes a first filter configured to block the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both that are outside a first frequency band, a second filter configured to block the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both that are outside a second frequency band that is different from the first frequency band, a trigger configured to actuate in response to the insulator moving from the first position to the second position, at least one switch configured to route the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both to the first filter when the at least one switch is in a powered state and to route the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both to the second filter when the at least one switch is in an unpowered state, and a power circuit configured to connect to the at least one switch in response to the trigger actuating.
- the power circuit is configured to supply power to actuate the at least one switch into the powered state for a predetermined duration when connected to the at least one switch, and the at least one switch is configured to actuate into the unpowered state after the predetermined duration.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may also provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal.
- the device includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, and a filter circuit configured to transmit the upstream and the downstream signals between the input port and the output port for a predetermined duration after the output port is coupled to the subscriber device.
- the filter circuit is configured to block at least a portion of the upstream signals, at least a portion of the downstream signals, or both from being transmitted between the input port and the output port in response to an expiration of the predetermined duration.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may also provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal.
- the device includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and to provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, a trigger configured to actuate in response to the output port being coupled to the subscriber device, and a filter circuit configured to permit the upstream and downstream signals to be communicated between the input port and the output port for a predetermined duration in response to the trigger being actuated.
- the filter circuit is configured to block at least a portion of the upstream signals, at least a portion of the downstream signals, or both from being communicated between the input port and the output port after the predetermined duration.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a circuit for filtering signals, according to an embodiment.
- FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate schematic views of the circuit, according to an embodiment.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a device including the circuit, according to an embodiment.
- FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a process for filtering a signal, according to an embodiment.
- Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a device that is configured to disrupt delivery of signals to or from a subscriber premises in response to a predetermined time elapsing after a trigger is actuated.
- the device includes a filter circuit including first and second filters.
- the filter circuit is configured to switch from one filter to the other after the predetermined amount of time.
- the first filter may be configured to allow transmission of signals in a particular frequency range (e.g., a high-pass filter that allows transmission of a certain frequency that is within the normal upstream data transmission frequency band).
- the second filter may be configured to block transmission of at least some of the signals allowed to pass by the first filter.
- the filter circuit may employ a trigger (e.g., a mechanical trigger, an electrical trigger, a hydraulic trigger, etc.) to detect when the device is initially installed, and may employ a delay circuit or timer connected to one or more radiofrequency (RF) switches to control when the filter circuit switches from the first high-pass filter second high-pass filter.
- a trigger e.g., a mechanical trigger, an electrical trigger, a hydraulic trigger, etc.
- RF radiofrequency
- the device may be installed externally to the subscriber's premises in response to detection of ingress noise.
- the first filter may be active.
- the subscriber may be notified at this time and a service call requested.
- the second filter is activated and may disrupt signal communication to or from the subscriber's premises, resulting in the subscriber initiating a service call to the provider.
- FIG. 1 depicts a circuit diagram of a circuit 100 , according to an embodiment.
- the circuit 100 may include a delay circuit 102 .
- the delay circuit 102 may also supply power to the circuit 100 , and thus may be referred to herein as a power circuit
- FIG. 1 illustrates an example of such an embodiment, and thus the delay circuit 102 includes a battery 104 and a switch SW 1 .
- the delay circuit 102 may include a first resistor 108 A connected to ground, with the switch SW 1 being between the battery 104 and the first resistor 108 A.
- the switch SW 1 may be controlled by a trigger, as will be described in greater detail below.
- the resistance of the first resistor 108 A and the current stored in the battery 104 may be selected such that the battery 104 is configured to discharge for a generally predetermined duration until the battery is drained.
- the predetermined duration may be any suitable duration, e.g., between about 5 days and about 30 days. In one specific example, the duration may be about 15 days. It will be appreciated, however, that the duration may be any longer or shorter period of time, as desired.
- the delay circuit 102 may also include a second resistor 108 B and a third resistor 108 C.
- the circuit 100 may also include a filter circuit 110 that defines a signal path.
- the filter circuit 110 may be positioned between a first port 112 and a second port 114 and may provide two parallel paths for signal transmission therebetween.
- the filter circuit 110 may be bidirectional, allowing transmission of at least some upstream and downstream signals.
- the paths may include a first filter 116 and a second filter 118 , respectively, with each of the filters 116 , 118 including electrical components (e.g., resistors, capacitors, inductors, etc.) as needed to provide the functionality of the filters 116 , 118 .
- the first and second filters 116 , 118 may be high-pass filters.
- the first high-pass filter 116 may be configured to allow signals above a first frequency to pass and block signals below the first frequency.
- the second high-pass filter 118 may be configured to allow signals above a second frequency to pass and block signals below the second frequency.
- the first frequency may be lower than the second frequency.
- the first frequency may be in the range of the upstream data transmission frequency band.
- the upstream data transmission frequency band may be between 5 MHz and 42 MHz, and thus the first frequency may be a frequency therebetween, such that at least some upstream data signals are able to pass through the first high-pass filter 116 , when the first high-pass filter 116 is active.
- the first frequency may be a frequency in the range of from about 5 MHz to about 40 MHz, from about 10 MHz to about 35 MHz, or from about 15 MHz to about 30 MHz.
- the first frequency may be about 35 MHz.
- the second frequency may be above the frequency band of upstream data transmission signals, such that, when active, the second high-pass filter 118 blocks upstream data signals.
- the second frequency may be from about 42 MHz to about 60 MHz, for example, about 45 MHz or 50 MHz.
- the filter circuit 110 may also include one or more resistors (two shown: 120 A, 120 B), one or more capacitors (sixteen shown: 122 A- 122 P), and one or more inductors (six shown: 124 A- 124 F). As shown, the capacitors 122 A- 122 G and the inductors 124 A- 124 C may be part of the first high-pass filter 116 , and the capacitors 122 H- 122 N and the inductors 124 D- 124 F may be part of the second high-pass filter 118 .
- the circuit 100 may also include at least one switch (two shown: SW 2 and SW 3 , which may also be referred to as “second” and “third” switches SW 2 , SW 3 ) that may control whether a signal from the input port 112 flows through the first or second high-pass filter 116 , 118 .
- the second and third switches SW 2 , SW 3 may be radiofrequency (RF) switches, e.g., electromechanical or semiconductor switches.
- the second switch SW 2 may be connected to a first, input side of the circuit 100
- the third switch SW 3 may be connected to a second, output side of the circuit 100 .
- the second and third switches SW 2 , SW 3 may have a default, unpowered state and a powered state.
- the second and third switches SW 2 , SW 3 may route signals through the second high-pass filter 118 .
- the second and third switches SW 2 , SW 3 may route signals though the first high-pass filter 116 .
- the battery 104 may be selectively connected to the switches SW 2 and SW 3 via the switch SW 1 , so as selectively provide power thereto. Specifically, when the first switch SW 1 is open, the battery 104 may be isolated from the switches SW 2 , SW 3 , and when the first switch SW 1 is closed, the battery 104 may be electrically connected to the second and third switches SW 2 , SW 3 as indicated at VDD 1 and VDD 2 , respectively.
- FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate schematic views of a circuit board for the circuit 100 , according to an embodiment.
- the circuit 100 may extend between female and male ends 200 , 202 , as shown.
- the female end 200 may correspond to the first port 112 of FIG. 1
- the male end 202 may correspond to the second port 114 of FIG. 1 ; however, this is merely an example and could be reversed in some embodiments.
- the circuit 100 may include the switches SW 1 , SW 2 , and SW 3 .
- the switch SW 1 may be positioned proximal to the female end 200 and may include a trigger 204 .
- the trigger 204 may include a mechanical lever or any other suitable device that is actuated upon installation of a device that includes the circuit 100 , e.g., at a subscriber's premises. When actuated, the trigger 204 throws the switch SW 1 from an open state to a closed state.
- the trigger 204 may be coupled to an insulator, which may move when the filter is initially employed, as will be described below.
- FIG. 3 illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a device for filtering signals 300 , according to an embodiment.
- FIG. 3 in particular, illustrates an example of a mechanism for actuating the trigger 204 .
- the device 300 includes a housing 301 in which first and second headers 302 , 304 are located.
- the circuit 100 (e.g., FIG. 1 ) may be positioned between the headers 302 , 304 .
- the headers 302 , 304 may include connectors: one male connector (or pin) 306 and one female connector (or contact) 308 , respectively.
- the female connector 308 may be configured to connect to an F connector.
- An insulator 310 may extend therebetween, and may be at least partially contained within the female connector 308 . A portion of the insulator 310 may extend outward, through the end of the female connector 308 , such that, for example, when an F-connector of a cable is attached thereto, the insulator 310 is pressed
- the device 300 may include a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) 312 , which may be positioned within the female connector 308 and, e.g., within the insulator 310 .
- the spring 312 may bias the insulator 310 toward the left (as shown), such that the aforementioned portion thereof extends out of the female connector 308 . Further, the spring 312 may be compressed when the insulator 310 is pressed into the housing 301 .
- the insulator 310 may be connected to the trigger 204 (shown schematically in FIG. 3 ), such that the trigger 204 is actuated when the insulator 310 is pressed toward the male connector 306 . Because the insulator 310 is extending through (protrudes outward from) the female connector 308 , the insulator 310 may be pressed toward the male connector 306 when the device 300 is initially connected to the switch (and/or a cable), thereby actuating the trigger 204 .
- the switch SW 1 may be thrown to the closed position upon initial installation of the device 300 .
- throwing the switch SW 1 to the closed position may cause the battery 104 to energize the switches SW 2 , SW 3 .
- this causes the switches SW 2 , SW 3 to take their powered positions, thereby routing (e.g., upstream and/or downstream) signals to the first high-pass filter 116 .
- the battery 104 discharges to ground via the first resistor 108 A, until the predetermined amount of time (predetermined duration) expires.
- the battery 104 no longer energizes the switches SW 2 , SW 3 , and the switches SW 2 , SW 3 may return to the default state. Thereafter, the switches SW 2 , SW 3 may route (e.g., upstream and/or downstream) data signals to the second high-pass filter 118 . Since the second frequency of the second high-pass filter 118 is above the upstream signal frequency band, the circuit 100 may disrupt upstream data transmission after the battery 104 discharges. This consequence may be easily noticed by the subscriber, resulting in a service call to the provider and access to the premises to correct the source of any noise.
- the switches SW 2 , SW 3 may route (e.g., upstream and/or downstream) data signals to the second high-pass filter 118 . Since the second frequency of the second high-pass filter 118 is above the upstream signal frequency band, the circuit 100 may disrupt upstream data transmission after the battery 104 discharges. This consequence may be easily noticed by the subscriber, resulting in a service call to the provider and access to the premises to correct the source
- FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a process 400 for filtering signals, e.g., executed by operation of the device 300 , according to an embodiment.
- the user may connect the device 300 to the CATV network (e.g., the head end via one or more cables) and to the subscriber device, as at 402 .
- the input port 112 is configured to be connected to the CATV head end and receive downstream signals therefrom
- the output port 114 is configured to be connected to the subscriber device and receive upstream signals therefrom.
- the input port 112 is configured to provide the upstream signals received through the output port 114 to the CATV head end.
- the insulator 310 is configured to actuate from the first position into the second position in response to the device 300 (e.g., the output port 114 ) being connected to the subscriber device, as at 404 . More particularly, in a specific embodiment, the force applied to the insulator 310 during installation may overcome the opposing force exerted on the insulator 310 by the biasing mechanism 312 , causing the insulator 310 to actuate into the second position.
- the trigger 204 is configured to actuate in response to the output port 114 being coupled to the subscriber device. More particularly, the trigger 204 is configured to actuate in response to the insulator 310 actuating into the second position, as at 406 .
- Actuating the trigger 204 initiates the delay (e.g., power) circuit 102 .
- the delay circuit 102 is configured to supply power to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 for the predetermined duration in response to actuation of the trigger 204 , as at 408 .
- the first switch SW 1 in the delay circuit 102 is configured to actuate from an open state to a closed state in response to actuation of the trigger 204 , thereby connecting the battery 104 to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 such that the battery 104 supplies power to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 . This actuates the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 into the powered state.
- the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is configured to cause the filter circuit 110 to transmit a first portion of upstream and/or downstream signals between the input port 112 and the output port 114 for the predetermined duration when in the powered state, as at 410 . More particularly, the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is configured to route the upstream and/or downstream signals to the first high-pass filter 116 when the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is in the powered state.
- the first high-pass filter 116 may allow the first portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals (e.g., in a first frequency band) to pass therethrough and block the signals outside the first frequency band.
- the switches SW 2 , SW 3 may actuate simultaneously.
- the battery 104 drains while supplying power to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 for the predetermined duration, as at 412 . As a result, the battery 104 fails to supply a threshold current to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 after the predetermined duration.
- the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is configured to actuate into the unpowered state when the battery 104 fails to supply the threshold current, as at 414 .
- the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is configured to cause the filter circuit 110 to transmit a second portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals between the input port 112 and the output port 114 when in the unpowered state (e.g., after the predetermined duration), as at 416 . More particularly, the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 is configured to route the upstream and/or downstream signals to the second high-pass filter 118 in response to the at least one switch SW 2 , SW 3 actuating into the unpowered state.
- the second high-pass filter 118 may allow a second portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals (e.g., in a second frequency band) to pass therethrough and block signals outside the second frequency band.
Abstract
Description
- This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/714,907, filed on Sep. 25, 2017, which claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/399,705, filed on Sep. 26, 2016. The entirety both applications is incorporated by reference herein.
- Cable television (CATV) networks supply and distribute high frequency “downstream” signals from a main signal distribution facility, known as a “headend,” to premises (e.g., homes and offices) of subscribers. The downstream signals can be provided to subscriber equipment, such as televisions, telephones, and computers. In addition, most CATV networks also receive and transmit “upstream” signals from subscriber equipment back to the headend of the CATV network. For example, set top boxes can send upstream signals including information for selecting programs for viewing on a television. Also, upstream and downstream signals are used by personal computers via modems connected through the CATV infrastructure to the Internet. Further, voice over Internet protocol (VOIP) telephones use upstream and downstream signals to communicate telephone conversations.
- To permit simultaneous communication of upstream and downstream CATV signals, and to permit interoperability of the subscriber equipment and the equipment associated with the CATV network infrastructure outside of subscriber premises, the downstream and upstream signals are confined to two different frequency bands. For example, in some CATV networks, the downstream frequency band can be within the range of 54-1002 megahertz (MHz), and the upstream frequency band can be within the range of 5-42 MHz.
- The upstream frequency band may be susceptible to ingress noise from a variety of sources, both within and exterior to the subscriber's premises. The noise may have little effect on an individual subscriber's experience using the network, but can burden the network on the plant-level. When the source of the noise is exterior to the premises, the source can be addressed by routine maintenance. However, when the source of the noise is within a subscriber's premises, which is common, the subscriber's consent is needed for the appropriate remedial measures to be taken. This can be a challenge, because the subscriber may not recognize that the noise is burdening the plant, and thus may have little or no incentive to provide access to the provider.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal. The device includes a housing, and an insulator positioned at least partially within the housing, the insulator being configured to receive a cable and to move from a first position to a second position. Connecting the insulator to the cable causes the insulator to move from the first position to the second position. The device also includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, and a circuit positioned at least partially within the housing. The circuit includes a first filter configured to block the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both that are outside a first frequency band, a second filter configured to block the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both that are outside a second frequency band that is different from the first frequency band, a trigger configured to actuate in response to the insulator moving from the first position to the second position, at least one switch configured to route the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both to the first filter when the at least one switch is in a powered state and to route the upstream signals, the downstream signals, or both to the second filter when the at least one switch is in an unpowered state, and a power circuit configured to connect to the at least one switch in response to the trigger actuating. The power circuit is configured to supply power to actuate the at least one switch into the powered state for a predetermined duration when connected to the at least one switch, and the at least one switch is configured to actuate into the unpowered state after the predetermined duration.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may also provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal. The device includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, and a filter circuit configured to transmit the upstream and the downstream signals between the input port and the output port for a predetermined duration after the output port is coupled to the subscriber device. The filter circuit is configured to block at least a portion of the upstream signals, at least a portion of the downstream signals, or both from being transmitted between the input port and the output port in response to an expiration of the predetermined duration.
- Embodiments of the disclosure may also provide a device for filtering a cable television (CATV) signal. The device includes an input port configured to receive downstream signals from a CATV headend and to provide upstream signals thereto, an output port configured to be coupled to a subscriber device and provide the downstream signals thereto and to receive the upstream signals therefrom, a trigger configured to actuate in response to the output port being coupled to the subscriber device, and a filter circuit configured to permit the upstream and downstream signals to be communicated between the input port and the output port for a predetermined duration in response to the trigger being actuated. The filter circuit is configured to block at least a portion of the upstream signals, at least a portion of the downstream signals, or both from being communicated between the input port and the output port after the predetermined duration.
- It will be appreciated that this summary is intended merely to introduce some aspects of the present methods, systems, and media, which are more fully described and/or claimed below. Accordingly, this summary is not intended to be limiting.
- The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present teachings and together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the present teachings.
-
FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of a circuit for filtering signals, according to an embodiment. -
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate schematic views of the circuit, according to an embodiment. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a device including the circuit, according to an embodiment. -
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of a process for filtering a signal, according to an embodiment. - Embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a device that is configured to disrupt delivery of signals to or from a subscriber premises in response to a predetermined time elapsing after a trigger is actuated. In one example, the device includes a filter circuit including first and second filters. The filter circuit is configured to switch from one filter to the other after the predetermined amount of time. The first filter may be configured to allow transmission of signals in a particular frequency range (e.g., a high-pass filter that allows transmission of a certain frequency that is within the normal upstream data transmission frequency band). The second filter may be configured to block transmission of at least some of the signals allowed to pass by the first filter. Further, the filter circuit may employ a trigger (e.g., a mechanical trigger, an electrical trigger, a hydraulic trigger, etc.) to detect when the device is initially installed, and may employ a delay circuit or timer connected to one or more radiofrequency (RF) switches to control when the filter circuit switches from the first high-pass filter second high-pass filter.
- The device may be installed externally to the subscriber's premises in response to detection of ingress noise. Once the device is installed, the first filter may be active. The subscriber may be notified at this time and a service call requested. After the predetermined amount of time, if a service call is not initiated, the second filter is activated and may disrupt signal communication to or from the subscriber's premises, resulting in the subscriber initiating a service call to the provider.
- Turning now to the specifically-illustrated example embodiments,
FIG. 1 depicts a circuit diagram of acircuit 100, according to an embodiment. Thecircuit 100 may include adelay circuit 102. In some embodiments, thedelay circuit 102 may also supply power to thecircuit 100, and thus may be referred to herein as a power circuitFIG. 1 illustrates an example of such an embodiment, and thus thedelay circuit 102 includes abattery 104 and a switch SW1. Further, thedelay circuit 102 may include afirst resistor 108A connected to ground, with the switch SW1 being between thebattery 104 and thefirst resistor 108A. The switch SW1 may be controlled by a trigger, as will be described in greater detail below. The resistance of thefirst resistor 108A and the current stored in thebattery 104 may be selected such that thebattery 104 is configured to discharge for a generally predetermined duration until the battery is drained. The predetermined duration may be any suitable duration, e.g., between about 5 days and about 30 days. In one specific example, the duration may be about 15 days. It will be appreciated, however, that the duration may be any longer or shorter period of time, as desired. Thedelay circuit 102 may also include asecond resistor 108B and athird resistor 108C. - The
circuit 100 may also include afilter circuit 110 that defines a signal path. Thefilter circuit 110 may be positioned between afirst port 112 and asecond port 114 and may provide two parallel paths for signal transmission therebetween. Thefilter circuit 110 may be bidirectional, allowing transmission of at least some upstream and downstream signals. The paths may include afirst filter 116 and asecond filter 118, respectively, with each of thefilters filters - In at least some embodiments, the first and
second filters pass filter 116 may be configured to allow signals above a first frequency to pass and block signals below the first frequency. The second high-pass filter 118 may be configured to allow signals above a second frequency to pass and block signals below the second frequency. In an embodiment, the first frequency may be lower than the second frequency. For example, the first frequency may be in the range of the upstream data transmission frequency band. In some cases, the upstream data transmission frequency band may be between 5 MHz and 42 MHz, and thus the first frequency may be a frequency therebetween, such that at least some upstream data signals are able to pass through the first high-pass filter 116, when the first high-pass filter 116 is active. In an embodiment, the first frequency may be a frequency in the range of from about 5 MHz to about 40 MHz, from about 10 MHz to about 35 MHz, or from about 15 MHz to about 30 MHz. For example, the first frequency may be about 35 MHz. - In an embodiment, the second frequency may be above the frequency band of upstream data transmission signals, such that, when active, the second high-
pass filter 118 blocks upstream data signals. In an embodiment, the second frequency may be from about 42 MHz to about 60 MHz, for example, about 45 MHz or 50 MHz. - The
filter circuit 110 may also include one or more resistors (two shown: 120A, 120B), one or more capacitors (sixteen shown: 122A-122P), and one or more inductors (six shown: 124A-124F). As shown, thecapacitors 122A-122G and theinductors 124A-124C may be part of the first high-pass filter 116, and thecapacitors 122H-122N and theinductors 124D-124F may be part of the second high-pass filter 118. - The
circuit 100 may also include at least one switch (two shown: SW2 and SW3, which may also be referred to as “second” and “third” switches SW2, SW3) that may control whether a signal from theinput port 112 flows through the first or second high-pass filter circuit 100, and the third switch SW3 may be connected to a second, output side of thecircuit 100. The second and third switches SW2, SW3 may have a default, unpowered state and a powered state. In the default state (as illustrated), the second and third switches SW2, SW3 may route signals through the second high-pass filter 118. In the powered state, the second and third switches SW2, SW3 may route signals though the first high-pass filter 116. - The
battery 104 may be selectively connected to the switches SW2 and SW3 via the switch SW1, so as selectively provide power thereto. Specifically, when the first switch SW1 is open, thebattery 104 may be isolated from the switches SW2, SW3, and when the first switch SW1 is closed, thebattery 104 may be electrically connected to the second and third switches SW2, SW3 as indicated at VDD1 and VDD2, respectively. -
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate schematic views of a circuit board for thecircuit 100, according to an embodiment. Thecircuit 100 may extend between female and male ends 200, 202, as shown. In an embodiment, thefemale end 200 may correspond to thefirst port 112 ofFIG. 1 , and themale end 202 may correspond to thesecond port 114 ofFIG. 1 ; however, this is merely an example and could be reversed in some embodiments. As noted above, thecircuit 100 may include the switches SW1, SW2, and SW3. - The switch SW1 may be positioned proximal to the
female end 200 and may include atrigger 204. Thetrigger 204 may include a mechanical lever or any other suitable device that is actuated upon installation of a device that includes thecircuit 100, e.g., at a subscriber's premises. When actuated, thetrigger 204 throws the switch SW1 from an open state to a closed state. In an embodiment, thetrigger 204 may be coupled to an insulator, which may move when the filter is initially employed, as will be described below. -
FIG. 3 illustrates a side, cross-sectional view of a device for filteringsignals 300, according to an embodiment.FIG. 3 , in particular, illustrates an example of a mechanism for actuating thetrigger 204. As shown, thedevice 300 includes ahousing 301 in which first andsecond headers FIG. 1 ) may be positioned between theheaders headers female connector 308 may be configured to connect to an F connector. Aninsulator 310 may extend therebetween, and may be at least partially contained within thefemale connector 308. A portion of theinsulator 310 may extend outward, through the end of thefemale connector 308, such that, for example, when an F-connector of a cable is attached thereto, theinsulator 310 is pressed into thehousing 301. - Further, the
device 300 may include a biasing mechanism (e.g., a spring) 312, which may be positioned within thefemale connector 308 and, e.g., within theinsulator 310. Thespring 312 may bias theinsulator 310 toward the left (as shown), such that the aforementioned portion thereof extends out of thefemale connector 308. Further, thespring 312 may be compressed when theinsulator 310 is pressed into thehousing 301. - The
insulator 310 may be connected to the trigger 204 (shown schematically inFIG. 3 ), such that thetrigger 204 is actuated when theinsulator 310 is pressed toward themale connector 306. Because theinsulator 310 is extending through (protrudes outward from) thefemale connector 308, theinsulator 310 may be pressed toward themale connector 306 when thedevice 300 is initially connected to the switch (and/or a cable), thereby actuating thetrigger 204. - Accordingly, referring again additionally to
FIG. 1 , the switch SW1 may be thrown to the closed position upon initial installation of thedevice 300. Referring additionally toFIG. 2 , throwing the switch SW1 to the closed position may cause thebattery 104 to energize the switches SW2, SW3. In turn, this causes the switches SW2, SW3 to take their powered positions, thereby routing (e.g., upstream and/or downstream) signals to the first high-pass filter 116. In the meantime, thebattery 104 discharges to ground via thefirst resistor 108A, until the predetermined amount of time (predetermined duration) expires. At this point, thebattery 104 no longer energizes the switches SW2, SW3, and the switches SW2, SW3 may return to the default state. Thereafter, the switches SW2, SW3 may route (e.g., upstream and/or downstream) data signals to the second high-pass filter 118. Since the second frequency of the second high-pass filter 118 is above the upstream signal frequency band, thecircuit 100 may disrupt upstream data transmission after thebattery 104 discharges. This consequence may be easily noticed by the subscriber, resulting in a service call to the provider and access to the premises to correct the source of any noise. -
FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart of aprocess 400 for filtering signals, e.g., executed by operation of thedevice 300, according to an embodiment. The user may connect thedevice 300 to the CATV network (e.g., the head end via one or more cables) and to the subscriber device, as at 402. More particularly, theinput port 112 is configured to be connected to the CATV head end and receive downstream signals therefrom, and theoutput port 114 is configured to be connected to the subscriber device and receive upstream signals therefrom. Further, theinput port 112 is configured to provide the upstream signals received through theoutput port 114 to the CATV head end. - The
insulator 310 is configured to actuate from the first position into the second position in response to the device 300 (e.g., the output port 114) being connected to the subscriber device, as at 404. More particularly, in a specific embodiment, the force applied to theinsulator 310 during installation may overcome the opposing force exerted on theinsulator 310 by thebiasing mechanism 312, causing theinsulator 310 to actuate into the second position. - The
trigger 204 is configured to actuate in response to theoutput port 114 being coupled to the subscriber device. More particularly, thetrigger 204 is configured to actuate in response to theinsulator 310 actuating into the second position, as at 406. - Actuating the
trigger 204 initiates the delay (e.g., power)circuit 102. For example, thedelay circuit 102 is configured to supply power to the at least one switch SW2, SW3 for the predetermined duration in response to actuation of thetrigger 204, as at 408. More particularly, the first switch SW1 in thedelay circuit 102 is configured to actuate from an open state to a closed state in response to actuation of thetrigger 204, thereby connecting thebattery 104 to the at least one switch SW2, SW3 such that thebattery 104 supplies power to the at least one switch SW2, SW3. This actuates the at least one switch SW2, SW3 into the powered state. - The at least one switch SW2, SW3 is configured to cause the
filter circuit 110 to transmit a first portion of upstream and/or downstream signals between theinput port 112 and theoutput port 114 for the predetermined duration when in the powered state, as at 410. More particularly, the at least one switch SW2, SW3 is configured to route the upstream and/or downstream signals to the first high-pass filter 116 when the at least one switch SW2, SW3 is in the powered state. The first high-pass filter 116 may allow the first portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals (e.g., in a first frequency band) to pass therethrough and block the signals outside the first frequency band. The switches SW2, SW3 may actuate simultaneously. - The
battery 104 drains while supplying power to the at least one switch SW2, SW3 for the predetermined duration, as at 412. As a result, thebattery 104 fails to supply a threshold current to the at least one switch SW2, SW3 after the predetermined duration. The at least one switch SW2, SW3 is configured to actuate into the unpowered state when thebattery 104 fails to supply the threshold current, as at 414. - The at least one switch SW2, SW3 is configured to cause the
filter circuit 110 to transmit a second portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals between theinput port 112 and theoutput port 114 when in the unpowered state (e.g., after the predetermined duration), as at 416. More particularly, the at least one switch SW2, SW3 is configured to route the upstream and/or downstream signals to the second high-pass filter 118 in response to the at least one switch SW2, SW3 actuating into the unpowered state. The second high-pass filter 118 may allow a second portion of the upstream and/or downstream signals (e.g., in a second frequency band) to pass therethrough and block signals outside the second frequency band. - While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments will be apparent to those skilled in the art. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting, with the true scope and spirit being indicated by the following claims. The present disclosure is not to be limited in terms of the particular embodiments described in this application, which are intended as illustrations of various aspects. Many modifications and variations can be made without departing from its spirit and scope, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Functionally equivalent apparatuses within the scope of the disclosure, in addition to those enumerated herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the foregoing descriptions. Such modifications and variations are intended to fall within the scope of the appended claims. The present disclosure is to be limited only by the terms of the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting.
- With respect to the use of substantially any plural and/or singular terms herein, those having skill in the art can translate from the plural to the singular and/or from the singular to the plural as is appropriate to the context and/or application. The various singular/plural permutations may be expressly set forth herein for sake of clarity.
- It will be understood by those within the art that, in general, terms used herein, and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes but is not limited to,” etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations. In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “ a system having at least one of A, B, and C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). In those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, or C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended in the sense one having skill in the art would understand the convention (e.g., “ a system having at least one of A, B, or C” would include but not be limited to systems that have A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, and/or A, B, and C together, etc.). It will be further understood by those within the art that virtually any disjunctive word and/or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” will be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.” In addition, where features or aspects of the disclosure are described in terms of Markush groups, those skilled in the art will recognize that the disclosure is also thereby described in terms of any individual member or subgroup of members of the Markush group.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (1)
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US16/033,523 US20180324387A1 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2018-07-12 | Switchable highpass filter for catv return path |
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US201662399705P | 2016-09-26 | 2016-09-26 | |
US15/714,907 US10122962B2 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2017-09-25 | Switchable highpass filter for CATV return path |
US16/033,523 US20180324387A1 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2018-07-12 | Switchable highpass filter for catv return path |
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US15/714,907 Continuation US10122962B2 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2017-09-25 | Switchable highpass filter for CATV return path |
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US20180324387A1 true US20180324387A1 (en) | 2018-11-08 |
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US15/714,907 Active US10122962B2 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2017-09-25 | Switchable highpass filter for CATV return path |
US16/033,523 Abandoned US20180324387A1 (en) | 2016-09-26 | 2018-07-12 | Switchable highpass filter for catv return path |
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WO (1) | WO2018058060A1 (en) |
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WO2018058060A1 (en) * | 2016-09-26 | 2018-03-29 | Ppc Broadband, Inc. | Switchable highpass filter for catv return path |
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2017
- 2017-09-25 WO PCT/US2017/053301 patent/WO2018058060A1/en active Application Filing
- 2017-09-25 US US15/714,907 patent/US10122962B2/en active Active
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2018
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US4461032A (en) * | 1982-06-21 | 1984-07-17 | Zenith Radio Corporation | CATV Service controller |
US4571560A (en) * | 1985-05-21 | 1986-02-18 | Zenith Electronics Corporation | Switched bandpass filter |
US4814875A (en) * | 1985-10-17 | 1989-03-21 | Ampex Corporation | Digital envelope shaping apparatus |
US5341216A (en) * | 1989-09-29 | 1994-08-23 | Saskatchewan Telecommunications | CATV channel access control and metering apparatus |
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US10122962B2 (en) * | 2016-09-26 | 2018-11-06 | Ppc Broadband, Inc. | Switchable highpass filter for CATV return path |
Also Published As
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WO2018058060A1 (en) | 2018-03-29 |
US20180091771A1 (en) | 2018-03-29 |
US10122962B2 (en) | 2018-11-06 |
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