Abstract: A shared hybrid circuit for use in provisioning a communication system. In the method and apparatus of the present invention, a single shared hybrid separates transmitted and received signals for multiple transmission pathways between the distribution equipment and the customer premises equipment. In addition, the shared hybrid circuit of the present invention provides a method and apparatus to cancel a component of a downstream broadcast signal from a composite upstream/downstream signal detected at a node, thereby providing a significant reduction in echo and for the upstream transmission from a customer premises equipment transmitter. The present invention results in a significant cost savings over conventional hybrid circuits since a single shared hybrid can be used in provisioning service for many subscribers.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for provisioning broadband services to subscribers using an impedance-matched interface at a servicing area interface (SAI) that is in the same geographic vicinity as the subscriber group. Adequate signal-to-noise ratios at the subscriber site is achieved using a fraction of the power required using currently available broadband provisioning techniques. The impedance characteristics of the F1/F2 distribution lines at the SAI allow the broadband distribution system of the present invention to be deployed without the need for a POTS splitter to provide standard telephone service to the subscriber. The present invention also provides an improved coupling system to ensure that proper impedance is maintained to facilitate the operation of POTS equipment if the system components in the coupling system experience a loss of power.

Abstract: A distributed wireless digital subscriber line (DSL) network. The invention system and method allows service providers to extend their reach over the final segment within the communication system with broadband services. A small, wireless broadband access point (WBAP) may be installed on a facility's exterior (e.g., a home or office building) or at the localized box that provides service to a user. The greater the number of WBAPs and the greater the density of WBAPs within a given locale, then the greater the wireless DSL network coverage area, and the greater the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that may be achieved when the service coverage areas of two or more WBAPs overlap. The invention provides a truly distributed wireless DSL network, enabling broadband services, throughout a service provider's coverage area. Each service area's wireless spectrum may be independently managed to ensure total coverage throughout the network.

Abstract: Digital subscriber line (DSL) head-end. The invention uses downstream broadcast from DSL Head End to subscribers and slicing of upstream data from the subscribers to the DSL Head End or point-to-point upstream. Multiple lines are driven simultaneously thereby significantly lowering central office hardware costs. A peripheral, DSL Head End is added to a cross-connect box, or a next generation digital loop carrier (NG-DLC), to facilitate broadband Internet and video service capabilities. A DSL Head End may be added to each cross-connect box, or to each distribution area to provide an efficient cost-effective solution for provisioning DSL service.

Abstract: Twisted pair termination using vacuum microelectronic circuitry. The invention is operable to increase greatly the number of subscriber lines to access any number of networks. Certain aspects of the invention employ vacuum microelectronic circuitry that offers a dramatic increase in matrix switch density compared with other technologies. The invention includes a reconfigured/modified version of vacuum microelectronic circuitry to perform any number of applications towards which such technology is not currently directed including line driving, voltage stepping, amplification, impedance matching, filtering, and over-voltage/surge protection including lightning protection. The present implementations of vacuum microelectronic circuitry are primarily directed towards performing large amounts of matrix switching, sometimes on the order of servicing 1500×1500 matrices.