Abstract: A cable modem termination system including a media access controller, at least one physical layer transceiver in connection with the media access controller for receiving and transmitting data, a CPU interface configured to communicate with a CPU, and a network functions module in communication with the media access controller and the CPU interface. The network functions module is configured to conduct flow management and classification functions upon packets traveling through the media access controller.

Abstract: A distributed CMTS in a hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) plant. The distributed CMTS comprises at least one network layer, at least one media access control layer, and one or more physical layers. The at least one network layer, at least one media access control layer and one or more physical layers each function as separate modules, enabling them to be in separate locations, yet physically connected, throughout the HFC plant.

Abstract: A distributed cable modem termination system (CMTS) in a hybrid fiber/coaxial (HFC) plant. The distributed CMTS comprises a network layer, at least one media access control layer, and at least one physical layer. The media access control layer implements a media access control chip. The media access control chip interfaces with the physical layer to provide timing to maintain components within the physical layer. At least one physical layer is connected to a respective at least one media access control layer. The network layer, media access control layer, and physical layer each function as separate modules. The media access control chip does not require packet level media access control functions to be implemented in the same physical location. This enables the network layer to be in a separate component location of the HFC plant from the at least one media access control layer and the at least one physical layer, yet physically connected throughout the HFC plant.