Abstract: An interactive bandwidth modeling tool allows a user to estimate the bandwidth requirements in a network for a period of time of interest which may be a plurality of years. The user enters network plant parameters which are used to estimate the bandwidth requirements of the network for a variety of types of signals, including upstream and downstream signals. The estimated bandwidth requirements are displayed on a display in either a graphical form or a histogram form. The user may select to display one or more of the plant parameters simultaneously with the display of the bandwidth requirements.

Abstract: A node size estimation tool for calculating a node size for interactive video, voice or data services placed on a system is provided. The estimation tool includes a computer processor, a data storage device, and the data entry device. Inputs are provided for receiving data on bandwidths for downstream and upstream passbands and for receiving data on node splitting information. Inputs are provided for receiving data on any limitations on the upstream and downstream passbands that are unavailable for use by the system. Inputs are provided for receiving data on requirement information for various services, and for receiving data on estimated service penetration rates, estimated simultaneous use rates, and a desired downstream data rate. Also, inputs are provided for processing data received to calculate the node size. A method of calculating node size utilizing the tool is also provided.