[comp.dcom.lans] Experience using Commercial TV as a MAN

ochsner@hq.af.mil (Russel.A.Ochsner) (10/11/89)

Speaking from experience, it is totally possible to use a CATV
network as a MAN. Despite the low tolerances of your average 
CATV network, there is equipment available on the market that
can operate on a CATV system, as is.

We presently run a dual cable of  some 60 channels with
CATV, data, telephones and a hodgepodge of other
types through our network. This encompasses most of the Air Force
offices in the Pentagon-- Largest office space in the world.

We use Bridge equipment and have run the receive levels down into
the -30 dBmV range ( down in the noise ) without any detrimental
effects. 

ochsner@hq.af.mil (Russel.A.Ochsner) (10/11/89)

Also, you must ask the CATV system technicians if they are using
a split-band system. Split-band basically means that they have
a "full duplex" type system consisting of what they call Inbound
and Outbound. Split-band is a must unless they are utilizing 
a dual cable system consisting of an inbound and outbound cable as
we do.