Abstract: A multi-port optical node is disclosed. The optical node is configured to send and receive optical and radio frequency data signals over a data distribution network. The data signals enter and exit the node through cables connected to ports of the main housing of the node. The main housing has a plurality of slots configured to accept a plurality of electronic modules. The electronic modules provide the basic functionality of the optical node including the power supply and transmitters and receivers for sending, receiving and converting of data signals. The electronic modules are approximately all the same size thus they can occupy any of the slots of the main housing. The modules further can be monitored and controlled via a serial system bus.

Abstract: A system and method for receiving and transmitting data signals over an optical receiver module with fiber path redundancy and narrowcast operation. An optical receiver receives the data transmitted over a network of fiber cables. The optical receiver includes a plurality of photodiodes for converting the optical signal to a RF signal and for sensing the quality of the optical signal. When the quality of the signal is determined to be outside a threshold range, one of the plurality of photodiodes sends an alarm signal monitored by a module microcontroller connected to the optical receiver module. Additionally, the alarm signal is sent to a remote operator. The module microcontroller analyzes the alarm signal and outputs a logical command stored in the memory of the module microcontroller to switch via a RF relay switch, the optical-to-RF path. The logical commands include redundant and narrowcast service path switching logic.