Abstract: A switch for the switching of communications system signals, with m input ports and n output ports, comprising two or more parallel switch matrices, each of size m×n, combined so that each switch matrix contributes to the available output power at each output port. The failure of one of the switch matrices, or one of the transmission paths therein, will therefore result only in a small reduction in the output power at the relevant output port, rather than complete power loss as would be the case for a conventional switch This fault condition can be detected using a power imbalance detection circuit in the switch matrix combiner. Additionally, the fault condition, having been detected by the power imbalance detection circuit, may be temporarily compensated by an automatic level control system.

Abstract: A signal distribution system for distributing signals, such as for outdoor wireless networks, comprises a number of remote hubs, each of which can direct wireless signals to a number of antennas. The antennas are used to provide wireless service to the service users, such as mobile units, within their geographic coverage area. The remote hubs are connected to main hubs, which are usually located centrally. Each main hub can support a number of remote hubs. The main hubs are connected to a number of base stations (again usually located centrally) in a flexible and re-configurable manner using a switch matrix. Some remote hubs may also include switched matrices for a further level of signal routing.

Abstract: A signal distribution system for distributing signals, such as for outdoor wireless networks, comprises a number of remote hubs, each of which can direct wireless signals to a number of antennas. The antennas are used to provide wireless service to the service users, such as mobile units, within their geographic coverage area. The remote hubs are connected to main hubs, which are usually located centrally. Each main hub can support a number of remote hubs. The main hubs are connected to a number of base stations (again usually located centrally) in a flexible and re-configurable manner using a switch matrix. Some remote hubs may also include switched matrices for a further level of signal routing.

Abstract: A switch for the switching of communications system signals, with m input ports and n output ports, comprising two or more parallel switch matrices, each of size m×n, combined so that each switch matrix contributes to the available output power at each output port. The failure of one of the switch matrices, or one of the transmission paths therein, will therefore result only in a small reduction in the output power at the relevant output port, rather than complete power loss as would be the case for a conventional switch This fault condition can be detected using a power imbalance detection circuit in the switch matrix combiner. Additionally, the fault condition, having been detected by the power imbalance detection circuit, may be temporarily compensated by an automatic level control system.