HomeMy WebLinkAboutTechnical Evaluation of the time Warner Cable System ..
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RICE, WILLIAMS ASSOCIATES
ww TECHNICAL EVALUATION
Of THE TIME WARNER
CABLE SYSTEM
PREPARED FOR THE ITHACA
AREA CABLE CONSORTIUM, NY
March 8, 1999
Prepared by:
Rice, Williams Associates
•- 601 Pennsylvania Avenue,NW 209 Elden Street
Suite 900 Suite 200
Washington,DC 20004 Herndon,VA 20170
Phone:(202)737-2400 Phone:(703)467-9833
,� E-mail:rwatelcom@erols.com Fax:(703)467-9849
�- TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
—
II. INTRODUCTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
III. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Headend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Antenna Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Satellite Earth Station . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Emergency Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Emergency Alert . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Fiber Optic Nodes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Table 1- Standard Channel Line-Up for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca
System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
Public, Educational and Government Programming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Subscriber Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15
Cable Plant Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Amplifiers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Passives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
Power Supplies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17
` System Test Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18
IV. TEST METHODOLOGY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Figure 1 - Test Point Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Table II- Comparison With FCC Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
V. TEST RESULTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
Table III- Measured Parameters at Test Points for Time Warner Cable -
Ithaca, NY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
VI. SUBSCRIBER SERVICE DROPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
VII. OUTAGES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
VIII. INSTITUTIONAL NETWORK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
IX. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
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APPENDICES
A Satellite Earth Station Performance Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . A - 1
B Stealth Signal Level Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 1
C Site Photographs
Figure C-1 - Off-Air Antennas & Tower . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C - 1
Figure C-2 - Satellite Earth Stations adjacent to Headend . . . . . . C - 2
Figure C-3 - Headend Processing Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C - 3
Figure C-4 - Headend Fiber Optic Transmitters and Receivers . . . C - 4
Figure C-5 - Subscriber Drop - Cedar Lane, Groton . . . . . . . . . C - 5
Figure C-6 - Subscriber Drop - Leisure Lane, Freeville . . . . . . . C - 6
Figure C-7 - Subscriber Drop - Goodrich Way, Dryden . . . . . . . C - 7
�. Figure C-8 - Inside Garage View of Figure C-7 . . . . . . . . . . . . C - 8
Figure C-9 - Subscriber Drop - Highgate Road, Cayuga Heights . C - 9
Figure C-10 - Subscriber Drop - Janivar Drive, Lansing . . . . . . C - 10
Figure C-11 - Subscriber Drop - Jerry Smith Lane, Town of
Lansing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C - 11
Figure C-12 - Subscriber Drop - Besemer Road, Caroline . . . . . C - 12
Figure C-13 - Subscriber Drop - Adams Street, Ithaca . . . . . . . C - 13
Figure C-14 - Subscriber Drop - Hackberry Road, Town of
Ithaca . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . C - 14
Figure C-15 - Subscriber Drop - Pease Street, Trumansburg . . . C - 15
Figure C-16 - Subscriber Drop - Hinging Post Road, Ulysses . . C - 16
Figure C-17 - Subscriber Drop - Wood Street, Ithaca . . . . . . . . C - 17
Figure C-18 - Subscriber Drop - West Court Street, Ithaca . . . . C - 18
Figure C-19 - Subscriber Drop - Falls Street, Ithaca . . . . . . . . C - 19
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I. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report documents the results of the recent inspection and technical testing performed
on the cable television system serving eleven towns, villages, and cities in Tompkins County, New
York. They include: the Towns of Caroline, Groton, Ithaca, Lansing, and Ulysses; the Villages
of Cayuga Heights, Dryden, Freeville, Lansing, and Trumansburg; and the City of Ithaca.
All of the subscribers have access to the 76 channels provided on the recently upgraded 750
MHz bandwidth cable system. The system has been upgraded to a hybrid-fiber-coax (HFC)
system in which fiber optic technology is utilized to transport the signals to the far reaches of the
system before a conventional coaxial cable network delivers the signals to the subscriber's home.
The cascades of amplifiers were reduced to a maximum of seven. New 750 MHz amplifiers and
1000 MHz capacity passives were installed during the upgrade. The upgrade was completed in
December 1998.
An inspection of the headend and off-air antenna site was performed to evaluate the facility
and the major electronics components used to receive and distribute television signals from the
headend to the distribution plant. The headend is located adjacent the cable office in Ithaca. The
headend was found to be adequate in size, quality of construction, and in level of maintenance to
provide current and some future cable-related services. In addition, the equipment used for
processing and preparing the channels for distribution is a combination of older and newer units
and is of high quality and was found to be operating properly. Signals from over-the-air
broadcasters are received at a second headend site located at 471 Snyder Hill Road.
Technical performance testing was conducted at 14 various test point sites throughout the
system and at the headend. The testing confirms that the system significantly exceeds the FCC
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performance standards. The test procedures employed by the company comply with accepted
proof-of-performance guidelines. With the exclusion of Channels 3, 4, 5, 8 and 9, each of the
remaining 71 video channels exhibited good-to-excellent picture quality when viewed with a
consumer grade television at each test point location. The Channels 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9 exhibited
perceptible thermal noise in the picture content. These channels are the off-air broadcasts from
Syracuse. The system operator is aware of the problem and is addressing it by installing a fiber
based link between the headend in Ithaca and the broadcasters in Syracuse. The system currently
offers a 76 channel package of analog television channels to its subscribers. In addition to these
channels, the system operator also provides services of FM radio, cable radio service, and high-
speed Internet access service called Roadrunner. In the near future, the system operator has plans
to add additional digital television service to it's list of services provided to the customers in
Tompkins County.
In addition to performance testing, various areas of the cable plant were inspected to verify
compliance with industry accepted construction standards. The inspections revealed that the
outside cable distribution plant is in good condition. Proper clearances between the cable system
and the power and telephone utilities on the existing poles were generally maintained although
a number of violations were observed, especially in the portions of the system in Lansing, Cayuga
Heights, Freeville, and Groton. Fourteen subscriber house drops were examined to determine the
quality of installation and maintenance. The majority of the drops inspected were installed
correctly to code. Some of the drops were grounded inside the houses and it could not be
determined if these were grounded properly or not. Cable attachments to the houses could be
improved with better fastening clips for the aerial drop installations.
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The subscribers of the cable system suffered a large amount of outages during the upgrade.
Some of the outages were planned, but, many were not. To reduce the number of outages, the
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system operator has improved the powering to the system and has replaced the amplifier fuses with
bus bars. The use of the new amplifiers should also reduce the number of electronic based
outages. Cut underground cables will always be a problem, unless those doing the digging request
that the cable plant be marked for location.
The I-Net was inspected and tested. It was found to operating properly at the time of the
VAW inspection. Visits to the various user sites showed that access to the equipment was difficult and
time consuming. In some instances the individual who had access to the rooms could not be
located or was not available. The franchise agreement allows for 8 bidirectional channels to be
allocated for non-system operator use. The capacity of the current network is 30 upstream and
38 downstream 6 MHz wide channels.
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II. INTRODUCTION
This report provides a written evaluation of the technical components of the cable television
system serving eleven towns, villages, and cities in Tompkins County, New York. They include:
the Towns of Caroline, Groton, Ithaca, Lansing, and Ulysses; the Villages of Cayuga Heights,
�- Dryden, Freeville, Lansing, and Trumansburg; and the City of Ithaca.
The report provides an analysis of the technical operational aspects and physical plant
design and construction practices to verify compliance with the Federal Communications
tow Commission technical requirements, the National Electric Code, the National Electric Safety
Code, and industry accepted good engineering practices.
The findings in this report are based on an analysis of information provided by the system
operator prior to the system visit and information gathered during a field investigation performed
by Rice, Williams Associates of Washington, D.C., between the dates of February 16 through
February 19, 1999. The cable television system is operated by Time Warner Cable.
During the field investigation, inspections were performed on the cable plant and empirical
test data were collected at fourteen selected test points in the system to verify compliance with
construction and performance standards set forth by the various regulatory agencies. Subjective
viewing of all the television channels was performed at each test point and at the headend utilizing
a conventional commercial grade television receiver. Furthermore, subscriber drops and
installation practices were audited and inspected at fourteen randomly selected locations within the
system.
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III. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
The cable television system provides a total of 76 analog video programming channels,
digital radio service, free FM radio, and high-speed Internet service to the subscribers within the
franchise area. The cable plant is a Hybrid Fiber-Coax (HFC) network of approximately 569
miles of cable, of which 464 miles is of aerial construction and the remaining 105 miles utilizing
underground construction. The system was recently rebuilt to a 750 MHz bandwidth system with
active reverse capabilities. Construction times for the upgrade was between April 27 through
December 1998.
The cable television system is fed from a single headend facility at 519 West State Street
in Ithaca. An off-air antenna site is located at 471 Snyder Hill Road. The broadcast channels are
�- transported via FM technology to the headend where they are processed and combined with the
other programming channels before being sent into the distribution system. Both coaxial and fiber
optic cables emanate from the headend facility to feed the various locations of the service area.
The coaxial cable portion of the system fed from the headend serves the immediate area
surrounding the headend in downtown Ithaca. This section as well as all of the fiber optic nodes
serve an average of 400 homes.
The remainder of the system is fed via fiber optic cable and optical receiving sites, referred
to as fiber nodes. The nodes convert the photonic energy into electrical signals. From there, a
coaxial cable network provides signal distribution from the nodes to the subscribers. The entire
system is served by 70 nodes.
The system is nearly fully built and, at present, only minor plant extensions and new
development cabling are constructed each year. The system was rebuilt in 1989 with new coaxial
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cables and, as stated earlier, was recently upgraded with new electronics and passives to a 550/750
MHz bandwidth capability.
The electronics components used in the system support operation to 550 MHz for
conventional analog video channels. A 550 MHz system has operational bandwidth between 54
MHz and 550 MHz or stated in terms of channels, can pass Channels 2 through 78, as can be seen
from the channel line-up chart shown later in the report. The portion of the spectrum above 550
MHz is reserved for digital video services as well as other non-video services. The bandwidth
between 5 MHz and 42 MHz is utilized for reverse analog, digital and ancillary services. This
portion of the bandwidth is currently used for converter data carrier and the Roadrunner, the high-
speed Internet service, upstream channel. The system utilizes a portion of the FM radio bandwidth
for transmission of two additional television channels.
Currently, the longest cascade on the system is 7 amplifiers deep. This lower number of
amplifiers in cascade improves picture quality, system performance and reliability. The fiber optic
nodes are strategically located such that the shortest amplifier cascades are utilized to feed the
subscriber's homes.
Headend
The system headend is located at 519 West State Street in Ithaca. Signals are received from
various satellite receiving earth station antennas at this location. Off-air broadcast channels are
received at a second headend located at 471 Snyder Hill Road. There a 100 feet tall tower is
mounted with all the off-air antennas. This site was chosen for optimal signal reception as the
headend is located in the valley of the surrounding hills. The local access channel programming
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is inserted onto the downstream path at the headend. Photographs of the earth station, antennas,
tower, and headend equipment are shown in Appendix C.
The signals are received, combined, and processed prior to distribution to the cable plant
with signal processing equipment manufactured by various manufacturers. The equipment in the
headend is as follows:
Manufacturer Model
Satellite Receivers
Scientific Atlanta Videocypher II
Wegner MPEG-2
Standard Agile 40C/K
General Instruments DSR 1500S
DSR 4500
DSR 4400 (MPEG II)
ASR-1000
Modulators
Scientific Atlanta 6350
Jerrold C6M
Processors
Scientific Atlanta 6330
Channel Scrambling Encoder
General Instruments MVP II
Optical Transmitters
Phillips 2000
Stereo Encoder
Scientific Atlanta 6350
Where the programming suppliers have migrated to digital signal transport, the equipment
supporting these channels is new. Roadrunner high speed Internet routing equipment is housed
in the headend as well. The system operator is using a Motorola Cable Router model MCR1-2-3
and Cisco 7500 Series router to connect with ISP in Syracuse. To keep the services separate, the
system operator has conveniently begun using different colored cables for easy identification.
The headend is located in a separate building adjacent to the cable office building. It shares
space in the building with the Time Warner Cable production studio. The interior space of the
headend is nearly filled with rack enclosures. Each rack enclosure is nearly full of electronics.
There is room for some additional equipment, but not for a large amount of new equipment. The
space is available for more channels or ancillary services. The equipment in the racks are well
.,, spaced out to allow for cool air circulation as can be seen in the photographs in Appendix C.
A dedicated large capacity air conditioning system is used to provide adequate temperature
stability. Continuous power is achieved to the electronics by the use of uninterruptable power
supplies and a stand-by generator for those instances when utility service is disrupted.
The system operator revealed that it has plans to include digital video services in the future
and will place additional processing equipment in the headend at that time. Time frame for this
new service is undetermined at this time.
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Antenna Tower
The antenna tower is located adjacent to the second headend. There is a 100 foot tall guy-
supported steel mast used to hold the antennas for off-air broadcast reception. Most of the
antennas utilize yagi or log periodic types. A photograph of the antennas and tower is included
in Appendix C.
Satellite Earth Station
There are five satellite receiving earth stations located adjacent to the headend. The dish
antennas range in size from 3.5 to 7 meters in diameter. Most of the satellite receiving dish
antennas support the reception of one satellite. However, a few of the satellite receiving antennas
utilize multiple-receiving hardware. They receive signals from more than one satellite.
The satellites from which signals are received include: Satcom C3 and C4; Galaxy 1R, 3,
5, 6, and 7; Anik E2; and GE3 satellites. The parabolic dish used in conjunction with the low
noise amplifiers provide for adequate signal down linking from each of the satellite services.
Photographs of the satellite earth stations are included in Appendix C.
Emergency Power
A 60 kilowatt Onan propane powered generator is used to provide back-up power to the
headend in the event of primary power failure. The generator is checked weekly for proper
operation.
Emergency Alert
The headend contains an emergency alert system. A Trilithic EAS sub alert system is
employed. Accompanying the system are a 911 encoder, a telephone dial-up interface, and
AM/FM controller/receivers. This emergency alert system supports dial-up, AM, FM, and
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low NOAA signal inputs. The emergency alert system which allows an operator to override the audio
and video portions of all the channels in the event of an emergency. Emergency messages are
controlled and made through the various format inputs.
Fiber Optic Nodes
The system consists of 70 fiber optic nodes. Each node is capable of two-way operation
with the inclusion of a return optical transmitter. Currently all of the nodes used in the system are
activated for upstream operation. Each optical node has 6 fibers dedicated to it.
�. The system operator is using Philips optical receiver nodes.
Channels
The 76 analog channels use the standard National Television Systems Committee (NTSC)
channel format in an normal frequency assignment. Table I provides the channel line-up of the
system, including signal sources. The TR numbers listed refer to the transponder on the satellite.
The channel numbers listed are the converter channels for the converters provided by the cable
company.
Time Warner Cable provides Broadcast Television Sound Committee (BTSC) stereo audio
on 16 of the satellite channels. Audio from the off-air broadcast channels is passed through in the
same form as they are received. If they are received in stereo at the headend, they are
retransmitted over the cable plant in stereo. The satellite channels are encoded in stereo at the
headend.
Local commercials are inserted onto video programming by a control unit which provides
switching, programming, and control functions provided by Quick View Service.
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Channel security is provided by using synch-suppression scrambling encryption technology
on the various video signals at the headend. The video information is scrambled using a General
Instruments Model MVP H encoding system for the Standard Plus, Custom Choice, Premium and
Pay-Per-View channels. All of the channels are scrambled except for Channels 1 through 21, and
76, 77, and 78. The majority of the channels available to the subscribers are scrambled. A set-top
converter is required to receive these scrambled channels. The customers who use the set-top
converters, will receive a dedicated 'barker' channel whenever an unauthorized channel is
.. selected.
Four of the channels in the 550 MHz usable bandwidth are currently not being utilized.
They are NTSC Channels: 21, 22, 58, and 64. No indications were given as to what Time Warner
Cable plans to do with these open slots.
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Table I- Standard Channel Line-Up for Time Warner Cable- Ithaca System
Ch Freq Channel Description Channel Source
2 55.25 E! Entertainment Satellite Satcom C3, TR-20
3 61.25 WSTM-3 (NBC) Off-air Syracuse, NY
4 67.25 WCNY-24 (PBS) Off-air Syracuse, NY
5 77.25 WNYS-43 (Ind.) Off-air Syracuse, NY
6 83.25 WSKG-46 (PBS) Off-air Binghamton, NY
1 109.25 Prevue Guide Satellite Satcom C4, TR-8
21 115.25 Knowledge TV Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-21
14 121.262 C-S an Satellite Satcom C3, TR-7
15 127.262 Government Access Local
16 133.262 Educational Access Local
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Table I Standard Channel Line-Up for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca System
... Ch Freg Channel Description Channel Source
17 139.25 TBS (Atlanta) Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-6
18 145.25 QVC Satellite Satcom C4, TR-9
19 151.25 WENY-36 (ABC) Off-air Elmira, NY
20 163.25 Value Vision Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-12
7 175.25 News Center 7 Local
8 181.25 WSYT-68 (Fox) Off-air Syracuse, NY
9 187.25 WIXT-9 (ABC) Off-air Syracuse, NY
10 193.25 WPIX-11 (New York Cit ) Satellite GE3, TR-9
11 199.25 WICZ-40 (Fox) Off-air Binghamton, NY
12 205.25 WBNG-12 (CBS) Off-air Binghamton, NY
13 211.25 Public Access Local
23 217.25 Court TV Satellite Satcom C3, TR-6
24 223.25 C-S an 2 Satellite Satcom C3, TR-19
25 229.262 Nickelodeon Satellite Satcom C4, TR-3
26 235.262 Arts and Entertainment Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-23
27 241.262 CNBC Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-13
28 247.262 Madison Square Garden Satellite Satcom C4, TR-6
29 253.262 Bravo Satellite Satcom C4, TR-7
r„ 30 259.262 Discovery Channel Satellite Satcom C4, TR-21
31 265.262 American Movie Classics Satellite Satcom C4, TR-1
32 271.262 CNN Headline News Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-22
33 277.262 Fox Family Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-11
34 283.262 The Nashville Network Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-18
35 289.262 Black Entertainment Television Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-20
36 295.262 VH-1 Satellite Satcom C4, TR-23
37 301.262 Lifetime Channel Satellite Satcom C4 TR-
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Table I- Standard Channel Line-Up for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca System
Ch Freg Channel Description Channel Source
38 307.262 CNN Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-5
39 1 313.262 ESPN Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-9
40 319.262 The Learning Channel Satellite Satcom C3, TR-2
41 325.262 Comedy Central Satellite Satcom C3, TR-21
42 331.262 History Channel Satellite Satcom C3, TR-12
43 337.262 Turner Classic Movies Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-16
44 343.262 TV Food Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-4
45 349.262 Fox News Satellite Galaxy 7, TR-20
46 355.262 USA Network Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-19
47 361.262 TWC Satellite
48 367.262 Turner Network Television Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-17
49 373.262 TV Land Satellite Galaxy 7, TR-19
50 379.262 MSNBC Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-10
51 385.262 Country Music TV Satellite Satcom C4, TR-24
52 391.262 Travel Channel Satellite Satcom C4, TR-13
53 397.262 Cartoon Channel Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-8
54 403.25 Home and Garden Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-20
55 409.25 MTV Satellite Satcom C4, TR-17
.. 56 415.25 Animal Planet Satellite Satcom C3, TR-22
57 421.25 EWTN Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-11
Inspirational Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-17
58 427.25 Oen
59 433.25 ESPN 2 Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-14
60 439.25 Encore Satellite Galaxy 7, TR-11
61 445.25 Independent Film Channel Satellite Galaxy 7, TR-14
62 451.25 Golf Channel Satellite Galaxy 7, TR-7
.. 63 457.25 Sci-Fi Channel Satellite Galaxy 5 TR-4
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Table I- Standard Channel Line-Up for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca System
Ch Freg Channel Description Channel Source
64 463.25 Oen
65 469.25 HBO Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-15
66 475.25 HBO Plus Satellite Galaxy 3, TR-16
67 481.25 HBO Signature Satellite Galaxy 3, TR-19
68 487.25 Cinemax Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-19
`~ 69 493.25 Showtime Satellite Satcom C3, TR-15
70 499.25 Starz Satellite Galaxy 1R, TR-13
71 505.25 Disney Channel Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-1
72 511.25 Viewer's Choice Satellite Satcom C3, TR-3.0
73 517.25 Playboy Satellite Galaxy 5, TR-2
74 523.25 Hot Choice Satellite Satcom C3, TR-3.2
75 529.25 Viewer's Choice 5 Satellite Anik E2, TR-22.9
76 535.25 SCOLA Satellite Galaxy 6, TR-23
77 541.25 1 Leased Access Local
.. Public, Educational and Government Programming
Public, educational and government programming service and leased access are provided
on five channels. Dedicated return paths are provided over the separate Institutional Network (I-
Net) for feeds from the various access entities. Three of the channels, Channels 13, 77, and 78,
are produced or injected onto the cable system at the cable office's production studio. The
channels used on the system for local access programming include the following.
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Channel Source
Channel 13 Public Access
Channel 15 Government Access
Channel 16 Educational Access
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Channel 77 Leased Access
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Channel 78 Public Access 2
Subscriber Equipment
The system utilizes General Instruments CFT-2000 series converters. Pay-per-view service
is accomplished through the converter and is instantaneous since the entire system is two way
active. A data carrier from the converter is received by the headend computer which enables the
unscrambling of the programming if the account is in good standing. For those subscribers, who
wish to watch one channel while recording programming on an additional channel, the system
operator can provide a General Instruments Watch and Record converter. This converter has dual
descramblers and tuners. Non-addressable converters are also available for those subscribers who
do not have cable-ready television sets.
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The CFT-2000 converters provide on-screen subscriber programming and in-band data
communications for the cable operator. All of the units support volume control. Scrambled
channelization for the system is provided by synch-suppression scrambling techniques at the
headend. The audio is scrambled using standard audio masking techniques. Audio masking
moves the audio carrier enough in the frequency spectrum that a cable-ready television set would
not be able to tune in the carrier. All channels included in the Basic Service package are
unscrambled and receivable with cable ready televisions or non-addressable converters.
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Cable Plant Construction
The coaxial cable plant for the system was originally constructed in the 1970's. In 1989
the system was rebuilt to 450 MHz bandwidth. During the upgrade, majority of the cable was
replaced. The cable plant was constructed with Trilogy MC coaxial cables. The trunk lines use
0.750 inch diameter and 0.875 inch diameter flooded and non-jacketed cables, while the feeder
or distribution lines use 0.500 inch diameter and 0.625 inch diameter flooded and non-jacketed
cables. For underground construction, flooding compound impregnated cable is used to help
` eliminate corrosion problems due to moisture. The fiber optic cable used is a loose-tube single-
mode type. Subscriber drops are installed with CommScope or Trilogy RG-6 or RG-11 shielded
coaxial cable. The shields are foil and 60% coverage braided strands.
Amplifiers
Amplifiers for the 750 MHz system are manufactured by Philips -Magnavox. The models
used are the Global Network Amplifier (GNA) and System II and System III amplifiers in a Fiber
to the Service Area type architecture. The Fiber to the Service Area format utilizes AM fiber
optic transmission equipment to feed a desired section of the franchise area where a number of
homes passed or the number of amplifiers in cascade is fixed. In this case: 400 homes or 7
amplifiers in cascade.
The GNA amplifiers incorporate the single output versions with pilot-activated automatic
level control. Feeds to the subscribers are accomplished utilizing System II or III amplifiers.
These amplifiers utilize either pilot-activated automatic or thermal level control. All of the
amplifiers utilize standard push-pull technology.
16
Electronic gain blocks used in cable television system amplifiers have undergone
technology advancements over the years. With each advancement, greater channel loading or
higher signal levels could be provided for a given amount of unwanted distortion performance.
Cable systems were limited to 12 channels for more than 20 years due to this unwanted distortion.
Second order distortions were greatly reduced when push-pull technology was used. Push-pull
technology rectifies the incoming signal into the positive and negative components and amplifies
each signal separately before they are recombined. Channel loading of more than 80 channels was
possible with this technology.
As mentioned earlier, the longest cascade in the system is 7 amplifiers deep. In addition
to the amplifiers in cascade, the optical node includes a launch amplifier. This type of design
provides excellent operational performance and high quality television pictures.
4. Passives
The passive devices used in the system are manufactured by Philips. The cable splitters,
couplers, and tap units have 1,000 MHz bandwidth capability.
Power Supplies
Alpha Model 9015 - 15 ampere, 60 volt power supplies are used throughout the
distribution system. The Alpha 9015 power supply is a non-standby type power supply. The
system operator's theory for not using stand-by power supplies is that each node has it's own
power supply and if the local utility power is down feeding this power supply so must be the
homes fed cable service by this power supply.
Stand-by power supplies are used in the city of Ithaca. There Alpha XM90-15 power
supplies are utilized. These three battery capacity supplies provide power which incorporate the
17
battery back-up inverters which are capable of powering the system for approximately two to four
hours in the event of a primary power failure.
System Test Equipment
The cable company has a sufficient inventory of modern test equipment including signal
level meters, spectrum analyzers, signal-leakage detectors, and frequency response sweep systems.
During this evaluation, Time Warner Cable provided all of the test equipment, such as the
spectrum analyzer, bandpass filters, preamps, and television receiver, to perform the test
•- measurements. The following is a list of equipment that was used for testing:
Description TY=
r.
Spectrum Analyzer Hewlett Packard 8591C
Bandpass Filter Trilithic BPF
Preamp Quintar
Video Receiver Magnavox, 10 inch screen
System Analyzer Meter Wavetek Stealth 4040
18
IV. TEST METHODOLOGY
.. Prior to testing the system, results of earlier proof-of-performance test submitted by Time
Warner Cable of Ithaca was reviewed. The system's Summer 1998 proof-of-performance test
results met the current FCC technical operational requirements.
A set of fourteen test points within the franchise limits were selected as a sample for the
overall system coverage. Six test points selected were the system operator's regular FCC test
s
points. The remaining eight test points were randomly selected the day of the testing; therefore,
no pretest adjusting of the system could be performed.
Testing was done between the dates of February 16 through February 19. At each
location, performance measurements were obtained with a spectrum analyzer and subjective
viewing observations on each channel was performed. The evaluation of these measurement set-
ups verified that the test procedures utilized by the time Warner Cable technicians are in
compliance with National Cable Television Association recommended practices and procedures.
The test results obtained from the measurements is comparable to the previously submitted proof
data for each FCC test point. Level and performance measurements were also taken with the
Wavetek Stealth system analyzer at the headend and all fourteen test points.
In addition to the system tests, fourteen random subscriber drops were examined for proper
installation and conformance to proper safety code requirements. Figure 1 is a map showing the
•- test point sites.
19
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Technical operational performance measurements conducted on the Time Warner Cable
cable television system include the following tests:
• System Frequency Response was calculated for each of the six test
points. As a CATV amplifier cascade lengthens, any frequency
response variations over the total system bandwidth are
compounded. These variations are quoted as the decibel level (dB)
difference between the highest and lowest amplitudes on the system,
or dB "peak-to-valley", as referenced to the corresponding hub site
or headend. This parameter was measured by analysis of signal
.. level data taken with the Stealth.
• Carrier-to-Noise Measurement (C/N) was measured with the
spectrum analyzer on selected system channels at six test point
locations. Excessive noise can result from system operating levels
that are too low, or from improperly operating equipment. As cable
signals pass through cascaded amplifiers, each amplifier contributes
a small amount of noise to the signals. The carrier-to-noise
measurement allows evaluation of the amplifier cascade up to the
.. test location.
• Visual Carrier Variation is the difference, in decibels, between the
highest and lowest video carriers across the entire frequency
spectrum. These data are recorded using the Wavetek Stealth signal
.. level meter.
• Hum Modulation is an interference with the signal from power line
frequencies (60 Hz) or any other low frequency modulations. This
test was performed on selected channels at each of the evaluated test
points. The hum modulation is read directly on the spectrum
analyzer display.
• Composite Second Order Beat was measured with the spectrum
analyzer on selected system channels at each examined test point.
It is the distortion resulting from all of the combinations of any two
channels mixing.
• Composite Triple Beat was measured with the spectrum analyzer on
selected system channels at each examined test point. It is the third
order distortion resulting from all of the combinations of any three
channels mixing.
21
• Subjective Viewing Evaluations of the quality of each television
channel was performed at the headend and selected test points as an
examination for visible and audible impairments. Results of this
evaluation is detailed in the Findings and Recommendations section
of the report
Measurements were made at the headend and the fourteen test points with the spectrum
analyzer and Wavetek Stealth unit to verify the signal levels of each of the 76 channels. The
combined results of these tests were then compared to current FCC requirements as shown in
Table II. All of the tested parameters were better than the required FCC technical operational
•- standards.
Table'H- Comparison With FCC Standards
Test Measurement Time Warner Cable
Description FCC Standards Worst Case Values
Carrier-to-Noise (min) 43 dB 46.2 dB
12 dB overall 11.5 dB overall
Visual Carrier Variation 3 dB between adjacent 6.3 dB between adjacent
channels channels
Hum Modulation (max) 3.0 % 1.5%
Carrier-to-Composite -51.0 dBc -59.0 dBc
Second Order Beat
Carrier-to-Composite -51.0 dBc -56.4 dBc
Tri le Beat
i
22
•• V. TEST RESULTS
The results of the testing, as shown in Table III and summarized in Appendix B, verify that
the Time Warner Cable system meets the operational performance standards under Part 76,
Subpart K of the current FCC regulations. The test results verify that the system (the distribution
plant and the headend) provides quality transmission capability for the existing 76 channels.
In the Appendix, the results of measurements taken from each test point and the headend
are shown. Individual channel video and audio levels and audio-to-video carrier level separations
were measured on the Wavetek Stealth test instrument. The graphs indicate that signal levels were
within FCC requirements. Overall channel video level variations were also within FCC
requirements. Adjacent channel video level variations did not always comply with the FCC
technical requirements. Channel 78, the Public Access 2 channel had low video levels on the days
of the test. This was the only channel which did not meet this requirement, all of the other
channels met the technical requirement. Adjusting the video carrier level to those adjacent to it
brought this channel back into compliance.
.. In addition to video and audio carrier level and video-to-audio carrier level separation
measurements, video carrier level data for each test point are referenced back to the headend in
order to obtain a frequency response graph. These graphs, included in appendix D, demonstrate
the contribution the headend equipment, the cable and the system actives and passives have on the
frequency response of the system as the signals travel throughout the plant. These graphs indicate
that the system is performing well within the system design.
Subjective channel viewing at the headend showed minor picture impairments on a few
channels. Channels 3, 4, 5, 8, and 9 contained perceptible and nearly objectionable graininess or
23
•- thermal noise, usually referred to as noise. This impairment was also observed at all of the test
point locations. It was explained that the signal programming origination was more than 60 miles
away in Syracuse and low signal levels were received at the antenna site. Time Warner Cable is
working with the Time Warner Cable system in Syracuse to get these signals from a fiber optic
link between the two systems. The link will be made in Cortland. Channel 57 suffered from
electrical interference or shot noise and was deemed to be a programming origination problem.
Color saturation problems were found on Channels 46 and 48. Readjustment to the phase inverter
on the headend modulators fixed these problems. They were set in the incorrect position. All of
the modulators were inspected and found to be set correctly.
Subjective viewing of the channels at the test point locations did not identify any channels
with any major picture impairments other than those found at the headend. However, the off-air
broadcast channels seemed not to be as clear as the satellite received channels. The alignment and
..
continuity of the off-air antennas at the headend could be checked for maximum optimization.
Table III- Measured Parameters at Test Points for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca NY
Carrier Carrier Freq.
Test points Chan. Cascade Depth C/N to to Hum Response
(dB) CTB CSO M P-to-V
(-dBc) (-dBc) (dB)
Test point#1 2 N+6 Amps 53.0 -59.0 -61.1 1.2 6.2
law Cedar Lane 35 48.3 -68.4 -65.9 0.9
(Groton) 52 48.8 -69.1 -65.2 0.7
78 47.2 -66.1 -68.6 0.9
24
v
Table III- Measured Parameters at Test Points for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca NY
Testpoint#2 2 N+5 Amps 49.0 -69.0 -70.0 1.1 2.8
18 Leisure Lane 35 48.1 -62.2 -65.9 1.0
(Freeville) 52 48.4 -63.0 -67.0 0.9
78 46.2 -56.4 -61.0 1.0
Test point#3 2 N+ 7 amps 47.0 -71.0 -71.0 0.5 4.2
.- 6 Goodrich way 35 47.0 -65.0 -72.9 0.3
(Dryden) 52 47.5 -64.0 -71.0 0.9
,., 78 46.9 -59.0 -59.0 0.8
Test point #4 2 N+ 5 Amps 49.4 -75.0 -73.0 1.5 2.9
201 Highgate Rd 35 48.6 -65.0 -64.8 0.8
(CayugaHeights) 52 49.0 -66.0 -70.0 0.7
78 49.0 -69.0 -65.0 0.8
Testpoint #5 2 N + 7 Amps 49.2 -67.4 -73.9 0.2 2.2
49 Janivar Drive 35 50.2 -59.5 -72.0 1.0
(Village of 52 50.5 -58.5 -72.0 0.7
.� Lansing)
78 48.9 -56.5 -63.7 1.0
Testpoint #6 2 N + 7 Amps 47.0 -61.4 -70.0 0.3 3.5
Jerry Smith Rd 35 47.5 -67.0 -67.0 0.5
(Town - Lansing) 52 47.5 -67.0 -75.0 0.6
78 46.5 -62.0 -74.0 0.6
Testpoint #7 2 N + 6 Amps 48.6 -68.8 -76.3 1.4 2.1
Bessemer Road 35 50.1 -63.6 -69.1 1.2
(Caroline) 52 51.5 -63.7 -75.9 1.4
78 51.6 -62.9 -72.5 1.4
25
Table 111- Measured Parameters at Test Points for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca NY
` Testpoint #8 2 N + 2 Amps 49.0 -74.1 -76.5 1.4 9.2
414 Adams St 35 50.8 -66.6 -72.0 1.4
(City - Ithaca) 52 50.8 -64.9 -71.4 1.0
78 50.3 -64.5 -69.0 0.9
Testpoint #9 2 N + 3 Amps 47.7 -71.3 -76.2 1.5 2.6
�.. 4 Hackberry Rd 35 48.4 -70.0 -69.6 0.8
(Town - Ithaca) 52 49.4 -69.4 -78.0 1.0
78 47.5 -69.1 -64.5 1.0
Testpoint#10 2 N + 5 Amps 47.5 -58.8 -76.9 1.4 2.6
�.. 27 Pease Street 35 49.6 -63.6 -76.9 1.1
(Trumansburg) 52 50.4 -61.5 -70.7 0.8
78 49.7 -63.1 -77.7 0.8
Testpoint #11 2 N + 6 Amps 50.2 -71.4 -73.9 1.1 2.5
1255 Hinging Post 35 48.3 -65.1 -73.9 0.5
(Ulysses) 52 50.3 -63.2 -72.8 0.8
.. 78 49.3 -64.1 -74.7 0.8
Testpoint #12 2 N + 2 Amps 54.4 -70.6 -74.8 1.0 3.2
213 Wood St 35 52.0 -65.3 -70.3 0.6
(City - Ithaca) 52 52.1 -62.9 -74.0 0.7
78 50.0 -58.5 -60.0 0.8
Test point#13 2 N + 2 Amps 55.5 -67.2 -75.1 0.6 3.3
409 W. Court 35 51.6 -63.4 -67.6 0.6
Street 52 52.2 -62.1 -70.3 0.6
(City - Ithaca)
78 52.3 -62.9 -70.9 0.8
26
Table III- Measured Parameters at Test Points for Time Warner Cable - Ithaca NY
~" Test point #14 2 N + 2 Amps 55.3 -71.7 -75.2 0.9 2.4
116 Falls Street 35 49.2 -66.6 -68.8 0.5
(City - Ithaca) 52 48.5 -66.3 -68.2 0.5
78 48.0 -64.6 -66.7 0.6
law
27
VI. SUBSCRIBER SERVICE DROPS
Subscriber drop cables were inspected for proper installation (i.e. grounding) at fourteen
locations near the fourteen system measurement test point sites as shown previously on the test
point location map. A sampling of approximately 30% of the system plant was also inspected
while on route to the test point and headend sites.
The fourteen sites inspected revealed a variety of drop installation practices. For single
family houses both aerial and underground installations were inspected. This gave a good
indication of the installation and maintenance practices undertaken by Time Warner Cable of
Ithaca.
Thirty-six percent of the drop inspection sites utilized a practice of attaching the safety
ground wire to the interior water pipes. The system operator reports that previous local codes
prevented them from making the grounding attachments to the electrical system outside of the
houses. Because these ground attachments were inside the house, it was not possible to verify if
two
the grounding was conducted to specification or code. Current Time Warner Cable practice is to
bond (attach) to the electrical service ground conductor, so it is common practice to enter the
house where the electrical service does. Current practice is to install a plastic enclosure box to
the side of the dwelling and place the ground block and coiled excess cable within he enclosure.
None of these types of installations were encountered during the random sampling.
Two instances were encountered where the grounding was done outside of the house, and
the grounding conductor was excessively long. The code states that the grounding conductors be
as short as practical. In this instance, the overhead aerial drop could have been installed with the
28
cable running down the side of the building and entering the building near the location where the
ground attachment was made.
All of the aerial drop installations encountered met code specifications for overhead
clearance height for the cable run from the utility pole to the house attachment. If the subscribers
drops which were apparently grounded inside the dwelling were indeed grounded properly, then
all of the sites inspected had proper grounding. Appendix C contains photographs of the drop
installations found during the inspections.
In general, the cable trunk and distribution plant was found to be in good condition and was
properly constructed. There were no instances of broken or loose lashing around the cable and
strand. During the cable plant inspection, many code violations were noted dealing with clearance
violations to the telephone and electrical conductors. A majority of these violations were in the
long cable runs in Lansing and the runs to Groton, Dryden, and Freeville.
29
VII. OUTAGES
Time Warner Cable provided lists for the outages they have had for the months of July
1998 through January 1999. A review of the lists revealed that quite a number of outages occured
during that period. During the seven month period, 97 outages occured. The system operator felt
that many of these were upgrade related and/or were planned outages. They felt that since the
upgrade was completed, the number of outages would be reduced. They referred to many of the
changes that have been made to the system during the upgrade. To reduce the number of outages,
the system operator has improved the powering to the system and has replaced the amplifier fuses
with bus bars. The use of the new power supplies and amplifiers should also reduce the number
of electronic based outages.
Not only were these a large number of outages diring this time, but the duration of the
outages seemed to excessively long. Approximatley half of the outages took over 2 hours to
repair. In July 1998, two separate outages took over 12 hours to make the repairs.
The causes for the outages primarily were cut underground cables and electrical problems
such as blowing fuses and utility blackouts. Perhaps, the attention to powering during the upgrade
will aleviate some of these related problems. Cut underground cables will always be a problem,
unless those doing the digging request that the cable plant be marked for location
30
VIII. INSTITUTIONAL NETWORK
The franchise area is served by a separate Institutional network, called the I-Net. It has
been in operation since approximately 1989. It is a coaxial cable based network with about equal
bandwidths available for forward and reverse transmissions. The I-Net is a separate cable system
relative to the subscriber based cable television system. It is maintained by technical personnel
from Time Warner Cable. Currently there are 25 sites served by the I-Net.
The I-Net is a bidirectional network which utilizes C-COR Electronics model T-557 high-
split amplifiers in which the forward or downstream bandpass is between 222 and 450 MHz. This
�. bandpass provides for 38 conventional 6 MHz wide television channels. The return or upstream
path has an operational bandpass from 5 to 186 MHz or 30 equivalent video channels. The taps
used in the system are also manufactured by C-COR Electronics and are installed with filters that
., have the same bandpasses.
The design of the network is such that all channels should be 17 dBmV at every output
within the network. The input or injection levels are determined where in the network the inputs
are situated. Each user site will have a different input level. The system operator has the design
input levels for each site. Frequency translators are used in the I-Net. The frequency translators
are set for a 419.75 MHz offset. Signals coming upstream on certain frequencies are converted
.. at the headend by the translators to channels on the downstream path that are 419.75 MHz higher
that the input channels. The use of these translators is primarily used for data transmission
applications.
The franchise agreement, as understood by the system's general manager, stipulates that
the franchise authority has use of 8 upstream and 8 downstream channels. All of these channels
31
are being used or are allocated for use for video applications. The open channels are used on a
user needed basis. Time Warner Cable's Access Center lends modulators to these users. Two
data transmission channels are supported on the I-Net. Use of the I-Net channels are as follows:
Frequency
Input Bandpass
Channel (MHz) User
T-8 11.75-17.75 open
T-10 27.25 data communications
2 54 - 60 Ithaca College
3 60 - 66 Tompkins County
4 66 - 72 City Hall
5 76 - 82 open
` 6 82 - 88 Sciencenter
17 138-144 BOCES
8 180 - 186 Cornell University
Frequency
Input Bandpass
Channel (MHz)
26 234-240 channels are allocated on a
30 258-264 needed basis
40 318-324
50 378-384
60 438-444
61 447.00 data communications
The I-Net was inspected and tested. It was found to operating properly at the time of the
inspection. Visits to the various user sites showed that access to the equipment was difficult and
time consuming. In some instances the individual who had authority to provide access to the
equipment rooms could not be located or was not available.
32
A meeting with some of the users of the I-Net was conducted. Theses included
representatives from Cornell University, Lansing High School, and Ithaca City School District.
The representatives related that better maintenance attention from the system operator when the
system goes down is needed. They want to work closely with Time Warner Cable to help identify
whether the falut is in the I-Net or in the terminal equipment. They are generally pleased with the
network, but, would like additional bandwidth for data communications applications. High speed
data modems are available which use more that 6 MHz of bandwidth. They would like additional
�.• channels to provide these applications. These additional channels would need to be contiguous
in order to facilitate these requirements. This might not be a problem since the I-Net can support
at least 30 bidirectional 6 MHz wide channels and all of the usable bandwidth is not being utilized.
33
IX. FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The results of testing and inspection confirm that the system meets the technical
performance standards for operational parameters regulated by the FCC. Signal level variations
for overall variations also met the FCC requirements. Adjacent channel video level variations
did not meet the FCC requirements, but only on one channel.
At the time of our testing and inspection, the system performed satisfactorily. All of the
subscribers are able to receive the full 76 channel line-up.
The off-air channels from Syracuse were not up to acceptable standards. The plan to
connect the two systems and to transport these signals over a fiber optic cable link should be
accelerated.
The electrical interference with Channel 57 should be investigated with the programmer.
They should be contacted and the cable system should offer technical assistance.
The inspection verifies that the system has generally been constructed and performs within
the confines of good engineering practice and industry standards. The clearance violations
tow between the cable plant and the utilities should be addressed and eliminated to bring the entire
plant up to NEC and Bellcore standards. In some places the cables actually touch one another.
It is recommended that the system operator conduct a system-wide audit of the aerial cable plant
tow to identify any code violations and rectify them. It should be noted that many of the violations
encountered appeared to be caused by other cable owners.
At present, the cable television systems serving the franchise area is a system incorporating
fiber optic technology to provide excellent picture quality. Most of the bandwidth is being used
up to 550 MHz to provide the 76 channels of video. The four additional channels could be used
34
to provide more services to the subscribers. Digital video services will enhance the current
channel line-up.
The Roadrunner high-speed Internet access seems to be functions properly and is a great
service to those wishing faster access speeds. Bandwidth impact to the upstream and downstream
portion of the cable system is minimal.
The standby power supplies which provide back-up power for the system in the city of
Ithaca should be properly maintained. It was not confirmed whether the standby power supplies
which provide power to the cable system would supply power for sufficient time when in standby
mode. In a three battery configuration, the manufacturer's specification states that standby
batteries, if well-maintained, will provide minimum standby power for at least two hours for a
properly designed system. All backup power supplies should be checked during the semi-annual
low testing of the system.
In the fourteen areas inspected, all of the drop installations appeared to conform to code
requirements or industry accepted practices. Proper grounding is of prime importance as a safety
issue, especially in areas prone to high levels of power surge activity. It is recommended that
service technicians check the service drop grounding whenever making a service call for proper
grounding capability. All drops which are found to have insufficient grounding should be brought
up to Time Warner Cable's subscriber drop standard. Failure to provide adequate grounding at
the subscriber's home can cause damage to the equipment attached to the cable.
Some refinements regarding drop installations for visual aesthetics are recommended.
Some of the dwelling riser attachments looked as if the installation was rushed and the cable
•• attachment to the dwelling was missing or loose.
35
�. Access to the I-Net user sites needs to be improved. Time Warner Cable technicians need
to have timely access to the terminal equipment to properly maintain the system. It was noted that
the I-Net amplifiers and outside plant have not been checked in some time. Nobody at the cable
company nor the I-Net users could remember when the system was checked for proper alignment.
The system should be checked on at least a yearly basis.
36
Satellite Earth Station Performance Analysis --
The Satellite Earth Station Performance Analysis sheets included in this section have been
prepared by use of a computer program which computes the pointing direction from the ground
site to the satellite based upon the longitude of the satellite as well as the latitude and longitude of
the ground site. Additionally, this program calculates expected received signal-to-noise figures
based upon a range of antenna sizes and front end temperature ratings.
A separate sheet is provided with the analysis for each satellite of interest. The date is
included under the company header. The data include location plus latitude and longitude for the
analysis. Next is the satellite name followed by the computed elevation and azimuth angles to
point at the satellite from the indicated site.
Finally, the calculated VHF signal-to-noise for 3.2 in, 4.5 in and 7.0 in dishes is tabulated
versus low-noise amplifier temperature of 40, 60 and 80 K.
The calculations are based on published satellite data for the area of interest and reflect
reasonable expectations of achievable performance.
A - 1
03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: SATCOM C3
Elevation: 17 . 071 Azimuth: 244. 292
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m)
3 . 2 55 . 45 54. 77 54. 19
4. 5 57 . 24 56. 71 56. 24
7 . 0 57 . 84 57 . 70 57 . 58
�- 03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: SATCOM C4
Elevation: 14. 260 Azimuth: 247 . 529
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
- -----------------------------------
Antenna
----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m)
.. 3 . 2 55 . 33 54. 66 54. 09
4. 5 57 . 15 56. 63 56. 16
7 . 0 57 . 79 57 . 65 57 . 52
03-02-1999
�- Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 . 440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: GALAXY 1R
ti.. Elevation: 15 . 671 Azimuth: 245 . 928
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
' ----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m) ;
3 . 2 50 . 88 49 . 96 49 . 21
4. 5 53 . 72 52 . 82 52 . 07
7 . 0 54. 89 54. 62 54. 37
` 03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: GALAXY III
�- Elevation: 38. 055 Azimuth: 204. 366
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
----------------------------------
�' Antenna Diameter (m) ;
3 . 2 54. 73 53. 92 53 . 24
4. 5 56. 78 56. 11 55 . 52
7 . 0 57 .41 57 . 24 57 . 07
i
�- 03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: GALAXY 5
�. Elevation: 21 . 175 Azimuth: 239. 157
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m)
3 . 2 54. 31 53 . 52 52 . 85
4. 5 56.46 55 . 79 55 . 20
7 . 0 57 . 18 57 . 01 56. 84
L
03-02-1999
�- Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: GALAXY 6
low Elevation: 40 . 944 Azimuth: 176. 290
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
' -----------------
Antenna Diameter (m)
�- 3 . 2 50 . 92 49 . 90 49 . 07
4. 5 53. 83 52 . 80 51 . 97
7 . 0 54. 85 54. 55 54. 28
i
03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42. 440 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: GALAXY 7
`,. Elevation: 38. 840 Azimuth: 200 . 961
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
' ----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m) ;
... 3. 2 50 . 87 49 . 85 49 .03
4. 5 53 . 78 52 . 76 51 .93
7 . 0 54. 81 54. 51 54. 24
03-02-1999
Satellite Earth Station
Performance Analysis
Location: Ithaca Latitude: 42 .435 N
Longitude: 76. 505 W
Satellite: ANIK E2
�. Elevation: 31. 978 Azimuth: 221 .453
Calculated
Signal to Noise (dB)
Front End Noise (K)
40 60 80
' -----------------------------------
Antenna Diameter (m) ;
�• 3 . 2 50. 68 49. 67 48. 86
4. 5 53 . 61 52 . 59 51. 77
7 . 0 54. 66 54. 37 54. 09
APPENDIX B
TABLE OF CONTENTS
4.
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 2
Graphic Data Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
B - 4
Headend B - 5
Test Point #1 - Cedar Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 6
Test Point #2 - 18 Leisure Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 7
Test Point #3 - 6 Goodrich Way . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 8
Test Point #4 - 201 Highgate Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 9
Test Point #5 - 49 Janivar Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 10
Test Point #6 - Jerry Smith Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 11
Test Point #7- Besemer Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 12
Test Point #8 - 414 Adam Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 13
Test Point #9 - 4 Hackberry Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 14
Test Point #10 - 27 Pease Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 15
Test Point #11 - 1255 Hinging Post Road . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 16
Test Point #12 - 213 Wood Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 17
Test Point #13 - 409 West Court Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 18
Test Point #14 - 116 Falls Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . B - 19
B - 1
�- — Stealth Signal Level Analysis --
Introduction
The Wavetek "Stealth" is a computer-controlled signal level meter used for CATV system
measurements. It is capable of displaying, storing and printing signal level measurements for each
active channel on a cable system. The Stealth is adaptable to any CATV channel format; standard,
HRC and IRC frequency assignments can be accommodated.
The frequency response of a cable system refers to the relative amplitude changes in signals
,.., passing through that system. System components such as amplifiers, cable and taps do not
increase or reduce the amplitude of each signal on a uniform basis. That is, signals at the "low"
end of a system would be affected differently than those in the "mid" or "high" portions of the
spectrum and vice versa.
Frequency response is generally stated in dB peak-to-valley. In other words, the difference
(in dB) between the maximum and minimum values of the test signal, across the spectrum, is the
L.
system frequency response. Each amplifier, device and section of cable affects frequency
response. Some adjustment range is built into amplifiers to allow compensation. However,
compensation becomes more difficult to achieve and maintain with longer amplifier cascades.
The data is output to a personal computer for further analysis. As an output file, each
location's signal level data is then displayed in graphic form. The graphic data summary is helpful
in visualizing the "signature" or relative amplitudes of signal levels at locations throughout the
cable system.
B - 2
v
`- -- Stealth Signal Level Analysis --
Graphic Data Summaa
Signal Level Graph:
The graph provides an "at-a-glance" reference about the video signal levels of each channel
at a given location. The graph is developed from the stored Stealth data using powerful software
and is comprised of several elements.
• The graph header provides location details.
�- • The vertical (y) axis of the graph depicts an appropriate scale of the
range of signal level amplitudes, in dBmV.
• The horizontal (x) axis of the graph indicates the frequency range
of the cable system. The software determines the range and
incremental value for the x-axis during analysis.
• The body of the graph consists of a vertical bar for each system
channel plotted to a height equivalent to its measured video signal
amplitude.
Video/Audio Carrier Ratio Graph:
r... The graph provides a summary distribution of video-to-audio carrier ratio (in dB) for all
channels depicted in the Signal Level graph. FCC requirements are for this ratio to be from 10
to 17 dB.
Reference Comparison Graph:
The Reference Comparison graph is an indication of system frequency response. The
response is derived by calculating the difference in signals on a channel by channel basis between
B - 3
V
the reference signal captured at the headend or appropriate hub and those captured at each test
point. These data are computer processed and smoothed to derive the frequency response.
.s
�.r
r.r
B -4
TP #0 Headend 2/19/99
PERFORMANCE TEST C/N PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
50 10
,V 45 20
40 8 35 g 18
L u1 V2S
Z 30 6 a 12
b 25
20 4 E — g
E 15 =
M 10 2 4
�... U 5
0
054 90 128 182 198 234 270 308 342 378 414 450 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 X52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
3s
25
E 30 20
25
2.015
10
5
s
0
°ss 133 199 2D W 341 ns 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
Frwniivnry(MI-171 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
403
35
m 2
►.� -o
U30 ID 1
25 d 0
20 t4r=).2
15 0 3
10 .4
5 -5
0 60 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average N.A. Overall 4.2 Adjacent 3.1 0.0
TP #1 Cedar Lane 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
ti... 55 24
50 10
45 20
40 835 1
m 6
Z 30 6 0 12
25
204 E — 8
15 =
10 2 4
5
054 90 126 162 198 234 270 306 342 378 414 450 0 0 X34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carder-to-Nolse(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
35
35
s 31 30
25 25
820
115
u _
U In 10
�... 5
s
0
0 55 133 199 233 307 361 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 1011121314151617181920212223'2495
v.. FrAmiRnry(M 1-17) Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4-
403
35 m 2
co
y �q� 30 1
25 m 0
20 0_2
15
�.. 10 4
5 s
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carder Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 49.3 Overall 7.7 Adjacent 6.3 6.2
v
�.n
TP #2 Leisure Lane 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
m 50 10
v 45 20_
d 40 8 : 16
A 35
v... Z 30 6 ID� 12
b 25 a C
E20 4 E g
15 =
M10 2 4
y,. 5
0 0 0 '34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
54 90 128 162 198 234 270 306 342 378 414 480
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(d8)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
r.n 40
30
35
S 30 25
E
�.. v25 y20
d
a�
J 20 � 15
— 10
' ---mmmu-
y V 10
5
s
0
0 55 133 199 253 307 341 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
FfwrnlP.nr.v/MHz') Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
40 3-
35 00 2
30 1
25 2 v
c 15 20
Q 2
-3
10 L -4
5 -5
0 60 100 150 200 260 300 360 400 460 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 47.9 Overall 11.5 Adjacent 6.2 2.8
TP #3 Goodrich Way 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
9.. 55 24
m 5o 10
v 45 20
q1 40 8 1 yt 16
f!t 35 ZS
... Z 30 6 `0 12
b 25 a
20 4 E — 8
15
U 10 2 4
... 5
054 90 126 162 196 234 270 306 342 376 414 450 0 0 <34 36 36 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noiss(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
.. w
3
30
5
j 30 25
E
VA. 9 25
020
d
2D 15
J
Is — 10
y U 10
5
s
0 55 1)3 199 235 307 361 415 475 539
0 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
FrwnllRnry IMH71 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5-
45 4
40 3-
35 v 2
�... 30 1
25 0
20 1.10:-z
15 s
10 .4
5 -5
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 Oso 600 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
�- Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 36.7 Overall 11.4 Adjacent 4.5 4.2
TP #4 Highgate Road 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
m 50 10 2
45 0
40 8
w 35 O 1 16
Z 30 6 aJ4 12
0 25 m
20 4 E 8
•E 15 x'
U 10 2 4
— 5
0 1 0 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
64 90 128 162 198 234 270 308 312 378 414 460
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
4U
3
30
5
530 25
E
Co25 020
d
�20 15
1s X10
•... U to
5
5
0
°55 133 199 253 307 361 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 2425
�. Frp..rnjnnry/M1-171 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
403
r.. 35 m 2
a
30 „ 1
c 0
25
20 e 2
15 -3
10 -4-
5 -s
0 60 100 160 200 250 300 360 400 450 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
... Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 49.0 Overall 7.7 Adjacent 6.9 2.9
—
TP #5 Janivar Drive 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
CD 50 10 ZO
'D 45
35 40
8 d 16
Z 30 6 0 12
b 25
20 4 E — 8
E 15 =
V 10 2 4
5
0
54 90 126 162 195 234 270 306 342 378 414 450 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
.�
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
35
35
s 30
v 2s 25
i� 20
1s _
15
4.. 13 10 10
s
5
0
0 ss 133 1" 253 3m 341 413 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
�. Frpmmnrw(M H71 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
40 3
4. 35 2-
130 1
25 1
20 442,.2
15 3
` 10 A-
5 -5
0Now 50 100 160 200 250 300 360 400 450 500 560
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 49.7 Overall 6.8 Adjacent 4.6 2.2
TP #6 Jerry Smith Road 2/16/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
50 10
in 2
03 45 0
d 40 8 9 16
... .iq 35 u
Z 30 6 °' 12
25 a
20
E 15 =
U 10 2 4
L" 5
0 00 Z4 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
54 90 +zfi +ez 198 234 275 308 342 37e 414 +50
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
35
35
>30
30
.. E 25
o 25 a
�20 220
9 15
15 .9
►� 10 10
5
5
0
0 ss 133 1" 253 307 36+ 4+5 Ops sss 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25
>r FrRnup.m.v IMH71 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4-
403-
m
35 2
...
40 30 1
2 25 m
9 20 0 2
15 -3
10 -4
5 -5
0 Emp, 50 100 160 2W 260 3W 360 400 450 6W 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
�— Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 47.1 Overall 9.8 Adjacent 4.4 3.5
TP #7 Besemer Road 2/17/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
.... 55 24
Co 50 10
46 20v
d 40 8
35 ) 16
!�
30 6 212
b 25 CL
20 4 E — 8
'E 152
U 10 2 4
4� 5
054 90 126 162 198 234 270 306 342 378 414 450 0 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
3
35
s
>3Q
30
... 25 N 25
020
20
15
10 10
s
5
55 133 199 233 307 161 415 475 329
0 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
Frsmllanr•.v(MH;r1 Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4-
40 3-
35 m z
v 30 1
25 m 0
20 o_2
15 -3
�• 10 4
5 5
0 60 100 160 200 260 300 360 400 450 500 560
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
.,.. Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 50.5 Overall 6.3 Adjacent 2.9 2.1
TP #8 Adam Street 2/17/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
`r 55 24
50 10
v 45 20
40 8
35 2 16
V Z 301
6 d 12
b 25 a
.� 20 4 — 8
.E 15 =
10 2 4
5
054 90 128 182 198 234 270 308 342 378 414 450 O 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
35
75
E 30
4. v25 N25
2
v 20
0
„ 15
15 c
•. U 10 10
s
5
0 55 173 199 73.3 30 761 413 475 529
0 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
Frr+nllPnry(M H7) Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
403
tD 2
35
30 c 0
2 25 0
c 20 ?E-2
_ 15 � 3
10 4
5 mom .5
0 60 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 50.2 Overall 8.3 Adjacent 2.7 9.2
TP #9 Hackberry Road 2/17/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
v
56 24
m 50 10 20
v 45
01 40 8 c
.9 35 1 16
Z 30 6 `m 12
b 25 a
20 q E — g
E 15 =
U 102 4
+� 5
0 00 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
54 90 126 162 198 234 270 308 392 376 474 450
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO—AUDIO RATIO
au
35
33
S 30
25
25 y
>20 020
J
s — 15
�... M 10 10
5
5
0
0 ss 133 199 m 307 331 415 473 329 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
v FrnnnPnew MHA Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 a
40 3
9. 35 mim 2
u30 �, 1
25
15 0 2
�..r -3
10 4
5 -5
00 7- 50 100 160 200 250 300 350 400 460 500 660
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
... Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 48.3 Overall 4.1 Adjacent 2.2 2.6
TP #10 Pease Street 2/17/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
50 10
v 45 _ 20
v40 8 16
35
Z 306 2 12
4 25 a
20 4 E c 8
E 15 =
U 10 2 4
.... 5
0 1 1 0 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
54 90 128 182 198 234 270 308 342 378 414 460
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
4°
3
35
s
5 30 30
m 25
25 rn
X20
Tn 15
kiF is c
r.. U l0 10
s
5
2- -0
0 55 133 199 253 307 341 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
�. FrAminnm(MI-17) Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
40 3
.. 35 m 2
a
d 30 ?t
20
25 d
20 0-2
15 -3
10
5 -5
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 460 500 660
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
... Video Carrier Difference(dB)
-- Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 49.3 Overall 9.5 Adjacent 2.5 2.6
TP #11 Hinging Post Road 2/17/99
PERFORMANCE TEST C/N PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
50 10
v 45 20
u�}} 40 8 16
0 35 m
30 6 0 12
d 25
20 4 E — g
E 15 =
U 10 2 4
�... 5
0 0 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
54 90 126 162 198 234 zoo 306 342 378 414 450
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(0)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
4°
30
35
j 25
E
•.. cu y20
dm
915
15X10
to Am
5
5
°mmmw� 0
55 133 1" u3 307 341 415 475 5a 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 21 22 23 24 25
y Frwnllwnry WHA Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5-
45 4-
40 3
0]
35 2�°
30 °'
25 � o
20 iom_2
- 15 03
10 -4-
5 s
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 460 50o 560
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
•- Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 49.5 Overall 6.5 Adjacent 2.7 2.5
TP #12 Wood Street 2/19/99
PERFORMANCE TEST C/N PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
65 24
50 - 10
v 45 20
40 8 18
0 35 2
�.. c 30 6 m
0
25
0t2
20 4 E 8
E 15 =
U 10 2 4
5
0 00 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 X52
54 90 126 162 798 234 270 306 342 378 414 480
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
4.
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
30
35
S 30 25
E
S 25 ,a 20
d
X20 15
15 — 10
5
5
0
°55 133 1" 253 307 361 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
4r Frnntip.mv MHA Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4
40 3
... 35 00co 2
30 U 1
25 m 0
_20 .6_2
15 0.3
` 10 _4
5 .5
0 50 100 160 200 260 Sao 360 400 Oso 500 560
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 51.4 Overall 5.5 Adjacent 2.7 3.2
TP #13 W. Court Street 2/19/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
.... 55 24
50 10
Co 45 20
40 8 16
1! 35 d
Z 30 6 a 12
b 25
20 4
m 15 =
10 2 4
�.. U 5 _
0
064 90 128 162 198 234 270 306 342 378 414 450 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
4�
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
40
35
25
3.
20
4n.r 250215
15 � 10
�... U 10 5
5
0
°55 133 199 233 307 341 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 1011 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
4: FrAmp.new(MH7) Levei Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5-
45 4-
403-
m 2
.. 35 0
a30 4) 1
� 0
25 1
c 20 0-2
15 .3
10 A
5 -5
0 m. 80 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 650
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
... Video Carrier Difference(dB)
Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (dB)
Average 52.9 Overall 7.6 Adjacent 2.6 3.3
TP #14 Falls Street 2/19/99
PERFORMANCE TEST CIN PERFORMANCE DISTRIBUTION
55 24
50 10
45 20
.� 40 8 18
35 �
+� Z30
25 6 0 12
b
20 4 — 8
15 _
U 10 2 4
r.r 5 _ _
84 90 128 182 198 234 270 308 342 378 414 450 0 0 <34 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 >52
Frequency(MHz) Carrier-to-Noise(dB)
VIDEO CARRIER LEVELS VIDEO-TO-AUDIO RATIO
4°
35
35
>30
30
in 25
�� •O 2S N
� 20
�` 1s 15
... � w 10
s
5
0 ------
°ss 133 199 253 357 341 415 475 529 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 1213141516171819 20 2122 23 24 25
r„ Franuannv MHA Level Difference(dB)
ADJACENT CHANNEL DIFFERENCE REFERENCE COMPARISON
50 5
45 4-
40 3-
35 m 2
... 30 °, 1
25 m
20 Q_2
15 -3
r.. 10 .4
5 -5
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 380 400 450 500 550
0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Frequency(MHz)
Video Carrier Difference(dB)
�. Carrier-to-Noise (dB) Carrier Level Variation (dB) Peak-to-Valley (0)
Average 50.3 Overall 4.1 Adjacent 2.9 2.4
I
1
Figure C-1 - Off-Air Antennas & Tower
C - 1
Figure C-2 - Satellite Earth Stations adjacent to Headend
C - 2
IailaiL� E.
44
Figure C-3 - Headend Processing Equipment
C - 3
N•
- t
r
Figure C-4 - Headend Fiber Optic Transmitters and Receivers
C - 4
T
g
F_
L
1 -
I
1 �
1
i
Figure C-5 - Subscriber Drop - Cedar Lane, Groton
T
C - 5
414
s
Figure C-6 - Subscriber Drop - Leisure Lane, Freeville
C - 6
r =
f
9
Figure C-7 - Subscriber Drop - Goodrich Way, Dryden
C - 7
i'
_
Figure C-9 - Subscriber Drop - Highgate Road, Cayuga Heights
C - 9
Figure C-10 - Subscriber Drop - Janivar Drive, Lansing
C - 10
IN
Figure C-11 - Subscriber Drop - Jerry Smith Lane, Town of Lansing
C - 11
i
IOWA I
Figure C-12 - Subscriber Drop - Besemer Road, Caroline
C - 12
i
i
I
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Figure C-13 - Subscriber Drop - Adams Street, Ithaca
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Figure C-14 - Subscriber Drop - Hackberry Road, Town of Ithaca
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Figure C-17 - Subscriber Drop - Wood Street, Ithaca
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Figure C-18 - Subscriber Drop - West Court Street, Ithaca
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Figure C-19 - Subscriber Dr2 - Falls Street, Ithaca
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