Trilithic Sweeps Cable's Return Path

INDIANAPOLIS -- Trilithic, a leader in broadband test and measurementsolutions introduces the new 8310 RSA™ Return Sweep Analyzer as part of their comprehensive maintenancesystem. Working with an 860 DSPi™ in the field, the new SpeedSweep™ System speeds troubleshooting andmaintenance with fast, high resolution return sweep analysis and identifies micro-reflections, and narrowsuck-outs.

The SpeedSweep system includes the 8300 FST™, which generates a sweep stimulus for the downstreammeasurement; an 860 DSPi™ field analyzer with a sweep option FS-1, which receives the forward sweep andwith SR-1 option transmits reverse sweep signals for upstream measurements; and the 8310 RSA, whichreceives the upstream sweep signal generated by the 860 and relays the measurement results back to the 860.

SpeedSweep System

The 8300 FST is an essential part of the system for comprehensive sweep capability in the 860 field analyzerfamily. The instrument is rack-mounted in the head-end and generates a sweep that steps around systemcarriers to avoid interference, filling in vacant spectrum areas for a complete view of the network frequencyresponse. An 860 DSPi (with option FS-1) receives the sweep and – based on the measured sweep and systemcarrier levels – plots the frequency response. This response is compared to a stored reference to provide adifference display. With the goal of the network design being unity gain from amplifier output to amplifier output,the ideal response will be as flat as possible. The sweep test provides a measure of the RF transmissioncharacteristics of the network between the transmitter and the receiver, and is used as a day-to-daymaintenance tool for the RF portion of the HFC network.

Trilithic Inc.