System and method for extending the frequency band of a tap

Abstract

A faceplate for a tap housing is disclosed, designed to enhance the operating frequency of a hardline tap by modifying the equivalent circuit configuration. The faceplate includes a plurality of taps electrically coupled to the input and output ports of the housing, along with a first finger and a second finger that respectively contact a first KS pin in the input port and a second KS pin in the output port when the faceplate is installed. These fingers introduce capacitive elements to the KS pins, converting the tap housing's equivalent circuit from a 2-pole Butterworth filter to a higher-order Butterworth filter, such as a 4-pole configuration, thereby extending frequency performance.. The invention also includes a hardline tap incorporating the faceplate and a method for upgrading existing taps by replacing the faceplate.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EXTENDING THE FREQUENCY BAND OF A TAPCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 558,496, filed February 27, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] Coaxial communication systems utilize coaxial cables, a type of wiring that enables the transmission of data, video, and voice signals with high efficiency and minimal signal loss. Characterized by their unique construction, coaxial cables comprise a central conductor, an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer sheath. This design not only facilitates the transmission of high-frequency electrical signals over considerable distances but also significantly reduces susceptibility to electromagnetic and radio frequency interference. As a result, coaxial cables are renowned for their reliability in delivering clear signals, making them indispensable in various applications ranging from cable television and internet services to professional audio setups and security systems.

[0003] Over the years, coaxial communication systems have undergone significant advancements, adapting to the demands of modern high-speed data and digital broadcasting. The introduction of standards like DOCSIS 3.1 and DOCSIS 4.0 with extended frequency spectrum has further enhanced the capabilities of coaxial cables, enabling them to support broadband speeds that rival those of fiber-optic technologies. These improvements have solidified the role of coaxial cables in the telecommunications field, ensuring they remain a competitive and viable option for delivering a wide range of services, including high-speed internet and digital TV, to consumers and businesses alike.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Embodiments disclosed herein address the technical challenges of upgrading network taps to support higher frequency bandwidths, specifically in the context of the cable industry’s standards. Taps, which are integral components of cable networks, consist of two main parts: a Housing and a Faceplate. Historically,these taps were designed for frequency bandwidths up to 550 MHz or 750 MHz, with the housing connected to the hardline cable via pin connectors (known as KS pin connectors). Over the years, only the faceplate has been upgraded to accommodate increasing bandwidth demands, allowing the current taps to support up to 1218 MHz without replacing the housing. This approach of upgrading taps through faceplate replacement has been practical and backward compatible with existing infrastructure.

[0005] However, the industry is facing a significant challenge due to the introduction of DOCSIS 4.0 standards by CableLabs, which support up to 1794 MHz. The limitation lies in the older Housing designs, which can no longer support further bandwidth expansion through faceplate upgrades alone. A specific issue is that the current design of the female INPUT and OUTPUT ports (known as KS Entry Ports or 5 / 8-24 ports) and the male KS pin connectors do not create a 75 ohms transmission line up to 1794 MHz as per ANSI / SCTE-91 -2022 and ANSI / SCTE-92-2022 standards, impacting the performance at higher frequencies. The ANSI / SCTE-91-2022 and ANSI / SCTE-92-2022 standards are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0006] To address this limitation, embodiments disclosed herein add capacitance to the KS pin connector within the port. This can be achieved by incorporating a capacitive contact on the faceplate, which adds the necessary capacitance to the KS pin inside the port. The design and placement of this capacitive contact are crucial as they determine the capacitance value and the inductance (L1 and L2) in the system. The capacitive contacts need to be adaptable for different installation orientations (Aerial or Pedestal) by allowing movement or rotation to accommodate the direction of cable connections.

[0007] Some embodiments utilize a metallic contact that touches the KS pin connector, with one side isolated, while another design involves an insulative tip touching the KS pin connector and the other end grounded to the faceplate. This approach aims to extend the usable frequency bandwidth of the tap, aligning it closer to the requirements of DOCSIS 4.0 without the need for complete Housing replacement.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] A more detailed understanding can be had from the following description, given by way of example in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein:

[0009] Fig. 1 is a representation of a conventional tap;

[0010] Figs. 2A-2B are representations of different views of a face plate in accordance with embodiments in the aerial configuration;

[0011] Figs. 3A-3C are representations of different views of a face plate in accordance with embodiments in the pedestal configuration;

[0012] Fig. 4A is a representation of a conventional tap housing in the pedestal configuration according to embodiments installed in a housing;

[0013] Fig. 4B is a representation of a conventional tap housing in the aerial configuration;

[0014]

[0015] Figs. 5A-5D are cutaway views of a faceplate in the aerial configuration installed in a tap housing;

[0016] Figs. 6A-6C are cutaway views of a faceplate in the pedestal configuration installed in a tap housing;

[0017] Figs. 7A-7B are representations of different views of a reconfigurable faceplate;

[0018] Figs. 8A-8B are representations of different views of a faceplate with retractable fingers in the aerial configuration;

[0019] Figs. 8C-8D are representations of different views of a faceplate with retractable fingers in the pedestal configuration;

[0020] Figs. 9A-9E illustrate the mathematics for the electrical engineering principles in accordance with embodiments and

[0021] Fig. 10 illustrates an example process for extending the frequency band of a preexisting tap.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0022] Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS), is an international telecommunications standard that enables high-speed internet accessover the existing coaxial cable systems that was originally designed to transmit cable television signals. Developed by CableLabs, a research and development consortium dedicated to cable operator needs, DOCSIS defines the communications and operation support interface requirements for a data-over-cable system. It allows for the addition of high-speed data transfer to an existing cable TV (CATV) system, enabling cable operators to offer internet connectivity alongside traditional television services.

[0023] The DOCSIS standard encompasses several versions, each improving on the previous in terms of speed and efficiency. The initial version, DOCSIS 1.0, facilitated internet access with speeds up to 40 Mbps downstream (from the internet to the user) and 10 Mbps upstream (from the user to the internet). Subsequent iterations, such as DOCSIS 2.0, 3.0, and the latest, 3.1 , have significantly increased these speeds. DOCSIS 3.1 , for example, supports up to 10 Gbps downstream and 1 Gbps upstream, a vast improvement that supports high-bandwidth applications like streaming 4K video, online gaming, and more. These advancements are achieved through more efficient data encoding techniques, increased channel bonding, and other technological improvements.

[0024] DOCSIS operates by utilizing the existing coaxial cable infrastructure, which is widely available due to its use for cable TV distribution. This makes it a cost- effective solution for providing high-speed internet access without the need to lay new wiring. The system comprises a cable modem at the user’s end and a Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS) at the cable operator’s facility, facilitating two-way digital communication over the coaxial network. The standard ensures interoperability between equipment from different manufacturers, allowing consumers the flexibility to purchase their own devices. With its ability to deliver high-speed data over the widespread cable infrastructure, DOCSIS plays a crucial role in the broadband internet landscape, offering a viable alternative to fiber optic and DSL connections for millions of users worldwide.

[0025] Extended Spectrum DOCSIS (ESD) represents an evolution in the DOCSIS standards, aimed at significantly expanding the frequency spectrum used for data transmission over coaxial cable networks. Traditional DOCSIS systems, including DOCSIS 3.1 , operate within a frequency range of up to 1218 MHz. ESD, oftendiscussed in the context of DOCSIS 4.0 and its technology advancements, pushes this boundary further, extending the spectrum up to 1794 MHz or beyond. This expansion allows for considerably more bandwidth to be available for data services, which in turn supports higher internet speeds and greater capacity to meet the growing demands for broadband services.

[0026] The spectrum extension is crucial for cable operators as it enables them to offer ultra-high-speed internet connections without needing to replace the existing coaxial cable infrastructure. By increasing the frequency range, BSD allows more data channels to be added, significantly boosting the downstream and upstream capacities. This is particularly important for supporting symmetric service offerings, where upload speeds are as fast as download speeds, catering to modern internet usage patterns, including video conferencing, online gaming, and cloud-based services. The move towards ESD is part of the broader DOCSIS 4.0 specification, which also includes features like Full Duplex DOCSIS (FDX), allowing for simultaneous upstream and downstream data transmission on the same frequency band, further enhancing network efficiency and capacity.

[0027] Implementing ESD requires upgrades to both the network infrastructure and customer equipment, including cable modems and Cable Modem Termination Systems (CMTS). However, these upgrades are designed to be incremental, enabling cable operators to enhance their networks’ capabilities while leveraging the vast existing infrastructure of coaxial cables. The adoption of ESD signifies a significant step forward in the evolution of cable broadband, ensuring its competitiveness with other high-speed broadband technologies such as fiber optics. By expanding the spectrum and utilizing advanced technologies, ESD under the DOCSIS 4.0 umbrella aims to future-proof cable networks, providing the foundation for next-generation broadband services that require immense bandwidth and speed.

[0028] Hardline taps, often simply referred to as taps, play a critical role in the distribution of signals from the main coaxial cable, or “hardline,” to individual subscribers or devices. These components are part of the physical infrastructure that enables cable television, internet, and other data services to be delivered over coaxial cable networks.

[0029] Hardline coaxial cables are the thick, high-capacity cables used in the backbone of cable systems to transport signals over long distances with minimal loss. These cables are much larger in diameter than the standard coaxial cables that connect to a user’s home or the cable modem. A hardline tap is a device that is physically connected to a point on this main cable and “taps” into the signal being transmitted through it. It diverts a portion of the signal through one or more ports to which smaller coaxial cables are connected. These smaller cables then run to individual homes or businesses, delivering the cable service.

[0030] The design of hardline taps involves a careful balance between allowing enough signal strength to be tapped off for the subscriber without degrading the signal quality for downstream subscribers or the overall network. Taps come in various configurations, offering different levels of signal attenuation (reduction in signal strength) to accommodate the distance and specific requirements of the connected premises. They are engineered to maintain the integrity and quality of the signal, ensuring reliable service delivery even in varying environmental conditions and over different distances.

[0031] Taps also feature multiple output ports to serve several subscribers from a single tap point, making them a scalable and efficient solution for distributing services. The configuration and installation of hardline taps are critical aspects of network design and management, requiring careful planning to optimize network performance and service quality for all users connected to the coaxial network.

[0032] ANSI / SCTE 264 2020 refers to a specific standard developed by the Society of Cable Telecommunications Engineers (SCTE), which is now part of the larger organization known as CableLabs, and approved by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This standard is part of a series of technical standards and guidelines that are designed to ensure interoperability, reliability, and efficiency in cable telecommunications, particularly in the realm of cable television and internet services. Specifically, ANSI / SCTE 2642020 specifies the mechanical, environmental, and electrical requirements for hardline taps, which are devices that divide signals among multiple output ports. For example, the standard covers taps with 2, 4, and 8- way configurations, and supports frequencies up to 1794 MHz for the faceplate and 3000 MHz for the housing. The ANSI / SCTE 264 2020 entitled “Broadband RadioFrequency Hardline Taps for Cable Systems” is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0033] In the context of hardline taps within coaxial communication systems, “faceplate” and “housing” refer to specific components of the tap that play crucial roles in its functionality, durability, and ease of maintenance.

[0034] The housing of a hardline tap is the exterior shell or casing that encloses its internal components. This housing is typically made from durable, weather-resistant materials like aluminum or hardened plastics to protect against environmental conditions such as rain, snow, UV exposure, and temperature extremes. The housing ensures the tap’s internal components, such as the electronics and connectors, remain secure and operational over time, even in harsh outdoor environments. It’s designed to withstand the physical stresses that might occur in outdoor cable infrastructure, including physical impact and corrosion.

[0035] The faceplate of a hardline tap is a component that attaches to the front of the tap’s housing and provides access points or ports where coaxial cables can be connected. These ports are where the tap interfaces with the smaller coaxial cables that run to individual subscribers’ homes or businesses. The faceplate typically includes threaded connectors that allow for the secure attachment of coaxial cables, ensuring a stable and high-quality connection for the signal to pass through. The design of the faceplate, including the number and arrangement of ports, varies depending on the tap’s intended use and the network’s configuration requirements.

[0036] Both the housing and faceplate are integral to the design and functionality of hardline taps, contributing to the overall performance of the coaxial cable network. They are engineered to ensure that the tap can reliably distribute signals while being easy to install, access for maintenance or upgrades, and durable enough to last for many years in the field.

[0037] KS pin connectors are a type of connector used to establish electrical connections between the tap and the coaxial cable. The “KS” stands for “Kathrein- Scala,” a reference to the company that has been associated with the development or popularization of this type of connector, although the term can be more generally applied to similar pin connector designs used in coaxial systems.

[0038] KS pin connectors are designed for use in RF (radio frequency) applications and are notable for their durability, reliability, and ease of installation. They typically consist of a pin and socket design, where the pin is inserted into a corresponding socket to create a secure and efficient electrical connection. This design ensures a tight and secure fit, minimizing signal loss and protecting against environmental factors like moisture and dirt, which could degrade the connection over time.

[0039] Often the KS pin connectors are used in applications where the RF signal is carried along the hardline cable along with and AC (alternating current). In these applications, the AC is used to active devices like amplifiers and optical nodes in the network. In those cases, the tap is designed pass AC power and also “tap” the RF signal from the main hardline cable.

[0040] In the specific application within hardline taps, KS pin connectors are used to connect the tap to the main hardline coaxial cable. The use of KS pin connectors in this context is critical for maintaining the integrity of the signal transmission, ensuring that the signal strength is preserved as it is distributed from the main line through the tap and onto the subscriber lines.

[0041] The choice of connector, including KS pin connectors, in coaxial cable systems is essential for the overall performance of the cable network. It affects not only the quality of the signal transmission but also the long-term reliability of the network infrastructure. Connectors must be selected based on their compatibility with the cable and device specifications, environmental resilience, and the specific requirements of the telecommunications system in which they are used.

[0042] A Butterworth low pass filter is a type of signal processing filter designed to allow signals with a frequency lower than a certain cutoff frequency to pass through while attenuating signals with frequencies higher than the cutoff frequency. The main characteristic of the Butterworth filter is its maximally flat frequency response in the passband, meaning that it does not have any ripples like other types of filters (e.g., Chebyshev or elliptical filters). This flatness ensures a smooth frequency response up to the cutoff frequency, providing a natural and undistorted transition.

[0043] The Butterworth filter is defined mathematically by its transfer function, which determines how the amplitude of different frequencies is altered by the filter.The order of the filter, a key parameter, dictates the steepness of the filter’s attenuation slope beyond the cutoff frequency. A higher-order filter provides a steeper rolloff, meaning it more sharply distinguishes between the frequencies it allows and those it attenuates.

[0044] The transfer function W(s) off an n-nth order Butterworth low pass filter is given by:where.— (s) isthecomplexfrequencyvar table .— ( o ffsthe cutoff frequency (inradianspersecond).— (n) is the order of the filter, determining its slope and selectivity.

[0045] The design of a Butterworth filter involves selecting the order of the filter and the cutoff frequency based on the desired application. For instance, in audio processing, a Butterworth low pass filter might be used to remove high-frequency noise from a recording, preserving the lower-frequency sounds that are more relevant to speech and music. In electronics, these filters are implemented using resistors, capacitors, inductors, ordigital signal processing algorithms, depending on the specific application and the required precision and efficiency.

[0046] In the context of Butterworth low pass filters, poles are specific values of the complex frequency s at which the filter’s transfer function becomes infinite. Poles of the filter are solutions to the equation:

[0047] Solving this equation for s gives the pole locations in the complex s- plane. These poles are symmetrically distributed around a circle of radius cu in the left half of the complex plane for a low pass filter. The distribution of poles is what gives the Butterworth filter its characteristic maximally flat response in the passband. The exact location of each pole for an n-th order Butterworth filter can be calculated using:for k = 1,2, ... , n where (f) is the imaginary unit, and ( / c) indexes each pole.

[0048] This formula places the poles evenly spaced around a semicircle in the left half of the complex plane for a low pass filter. The presence and position of poles significantly affect the filter’s frequency response. Specifically, the closer a pole is to the imaginary axis (the frequency axis in the s -plane), the sharper the peak in the filter’s frequency response. For the Butterworth filter, the careful placement of poles ensures a smooth, flat response in the passband and a gradual transition to the stopband, without any ripples or overshoots, achieving a balance between selectivity and smoothness in the frequency response.

[0049] Implementing a 2-pole Butterworth low pass filter in an analog circuit typically involves using passive components like resistors, capacitors, and sometimes inductors, or active components such as operational amplifiers (op-amps) along with resistors and capacitors. The choice between a passive or active design often depends on the specific requirements of the application, such as the desired frequency range, impedance levels, and whether amplification is needed.

[0050] A passive 2-pole Butterworth low pass filter can be realized using a capacitor and an inductor. The configuration is known as an LC filter. The filter’s topology is straightforward: it consists of a series inductor followed by a parallel capacitor to ground. This layout forms a ladder-type structure. The values of the inductors (L) and capacitors (C) are chosen based on the desired cutoff frequency (( / c)) and the characteristic impedance of the filter ((Zo))

[0051] The cutoff frequency ( / c) is related to the L and C values by the formula:

[0052] For a Butterworth filter, the component values are selected to provide a maximally flat response in the passband. A 2-pole Butterworth filter has a -3 dB point at the cutoff frequency and a roll-off rate of 12 dB / octave (or 40 dB / decade) beyond the cutoff frequency.

[0053] Implementing a 4-pole Butterworth low pass filter requires a more complex circuit than a 2-pole filter due to the increased order, which enhances the sharpness of the cutoff and provides a steeper roll-off beyond the cutoff frequency.

[0054] A passive 4-pole Butterworth filter typically requires a combination of inductors and capacitors arranged in a specific topology to achieve the desired frequency response. The design would follow a ladder network, starting and endingwith inductors (or capacitors, depending on the specific design) in series and parallel, respectively. A 4-pole Butterworth low pass filter consists of a series inductor followed by a parallel capacitor to ground, then another series inductor, and finally another parallel capacitor to ground. The exact arrangement and values of these components depend on the targeted cutoff frequency and the desired input / output impedance characteristics. Passive designs might use a series of LC (inductor-capacitor) pairs where the inductors and capacitors alternate. This design, however, might be less favored for higher-order filters due to the size, cost, and potential losses associated with inductors, especially at higher frequencies.

[0055] For a 4-pole Butterworth filter, the component values for either passive or active configurations are chosen to achieve a maximally flat frequency response in the passband and a -24 dB / octave (or 80 dB / decade) roll-off rate beyond the cutoff frequency. The cutoff frequency((c)) is defined as the frequency at which the output signal’s power drops to half its passband value (or the voltage drops by (V2), which corresponds to a -3 dB point).

[0056] For precise component values and specific circuit diagrams, it is common to use filter design software or detailed calculations based on the desired cutoff frequency and the specific filter topology being used. These calculations will take into account the Butterworth polynomial coefficients for a 4-pole filter to ensure the desired flatness in the passband and the sharp transition to the stopband.

[0057] Implementing a 6-pole Butterworth low pass filter involves creating a circuit that has a very smooth, flat response in the passband and a steep roll-off beyond the cutoff frequency. A 6-pole filter has an even steeper roll-off rate than lower- order filters, achieving -36 dB / octave (or 120 dB / decade) beyond the cutoff frequency. Such filters can be realized through both passive and active designs, but active designs using operational amplifiers (op-amps) are more prevalent for higher-order filters due to their efficiency, smaller size, and greater flexibility.

[0058] Though less common due to the practical challenges of designing high- order passive filters (such as the physical size and tolerances of inductors), a passive 6-pole Butterworth filter would involve a more complex arrangement of inductors and capacitors. The design would follow a ladder network, with alternating series and parallel LC circuits carefully calculated to achieve the Butterworth response.

[0059] Elliptic low pass filters, also known as Cauer filters, represent a class of electronic filters that exhibit the fastest transition between the passband and the stopband for a given filter order and ripple specification.. Characterized by their ripple presence in both the passband and the stopband, these filters optimize the balance between filter order and ripple specification, providing a steep cutoff that is unparalleled by other classic filter designs such as Butterworth, Chebyshev, and Bessel filters. This sharp transition makes elliptic filters highly suitable for applications where stringent separation of frequency bands is required, despite the increased complexity in their design and implementation due to the elliptic integral equations that govern their characteristics.

[0060] Elliptical filters incorporate resistors, capacitors, and inductors, and may also include operational amplifiers (op-amps) in active designs. Resistors help in setting up the circuit's electrical characteristics, while capacitors are pivotal for their frequency-dependent energy storage, shaping the filter's frequency response. Inductors, which store energy in a magnetic field, contribute to the phase shift necessary for filtering.

[0061] The arrangement of these components follows the elliptic filter's design equations, which are more complex due to the elliptic integral functions that describe their behavior. The configuration typically involves a series and parallel arrangement of resistors, capacitors, and possibly inductors in passive designs, or resistors and capacitors around op-amps in active designs, tailored to produce the equiripple behavior in the passband and stopband. The selection of component values is critical and requires precise calculation to meet the specific filter specifications, including the desired cutoff frequency, the amount of ripple allowed in the passband and stopband, and the overall filter order.

[0062] Fig. 1 illustrates a conventional tap 100. Specifically, Fig. 1 shows that the conventional tap 100 has eight ports 112. Although tap 100 is illustrated with eight ports, conventional taps often have 2, 4, 8, or 16 ports. The horizontal entry port 102 and horizontal exit port 108 are used for aerial installations. The vertical entry port 104 and exit port 106 are used for pedestal installation. Aerial and pedestal connections represent two different methods of integrating hardline taps into a coaxial cable network to distribute services such as broadband internet and cable TV to subscribers.Each method caters to different environmental and infrastructural needs, offering unique advantages and considerations.

[0063] Aerial connections involve mounting hardline taps on utility poles where the main coaxial cable is run overhead. This method is particularly useful in areas where it’s impractical or too expensive to bury cables underground, such as in rural locations or regions with challenging terrain. The process includes securely attaching the hardline tap to a pole and connecting it to the overhead coaxial cable. From the tap, drop cables are run to individual subscribers’ premises, often following the same aerial route before descending to the building. Aerial installations require careful planning to ensure the cables are safely secured and protected from environmental damage and that they comply with local regulations and safety standards for overhead installations.

[0064] Pedestal connections, on the other hand, involve placing the hardline tap inside a pedestal — a freestanding, weatherproof enclosure that is positioned on the ground. These pedestals are connected to the main coaxial cable, which runs underground and surfaces at the pedestal location. The tap inside the pedestal splits the signal, and from there, individual subscriber lines are run underground to homes or buildings. Pedestal installations are common in suburban and urban areas where underground cabling is preferred for aesthetic reasons or to protect the network from weather-related damage. Pedestals provide easy access for maintenance and repairs without the need for digging, which can be both disruptive and costly.

[0065] The conventional tap 100 includes a faceplate 130 that includes the tap ports 112 which is installed in a tap housing 120. (Examples of tap housing are illustrated in Fig. 4A and 4B). The faceplate 130 electrical couples the entry ports 102 / 104 to the tap ports 112 when the tap housing 120 is inserted and mechanically coupled to the tap housing 120. In embodiments of the current invention, the conventional tap housing 120 is still utilized, but the faceplate 130 is replaced.

[0066] Figs. 2A-2B illustrates views of a faceplate 200 in the aerial configuration in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, the figures show the finger 210B that is configured to make contact with the KS pin 412B of the horizontal entry port 102. In addition, the figures show a finger 210A that is configured to make contact with the KS pin 412A inserted in horizontal exit port 108 of the housing. Figs. 2A-2B further showPCB post connector 204, which enables the faceplate to electrically couple to the tap housing.

[0067] Figs. 3A-3C illustrates views of a faceplate 300 in the pedestal configuration in accordance with embodiments. Specifically, the figures show the finger 210B that is configured to make contact with the KS pin 412B of the vertical entry port 104. In addition, the figures show a finger 210A that is configured to make contact with the KS pin 412A inserted in the exit port 106 of the housing.

[0068] Although Fig. 2A-2B and Fig. 3A-3C illustrate the faceplate 200 and the faceplate 300 as different face plates, in some embodiments a single faceplate may be reconfigurable as either faceplate 200 or faceplate 300 by relocating fingers 210A / 210B. For example, in some instances, the faceplate may include respective slots for a technician to insert the fingers according to whether the faceplate is configured as a faceplate 200 or as faceplate 300.

[0069] In faceplate 200 and faceplate 300, The tap pin sockets are often referred to as tap seizure posts. In some instances, fingers 210A / 210B have a flat edge that is pressed against the KS pin. In other instances, the fingers 210A / 210B include a “V” or “U” shape to have more contact area with the KS pin.

[0070] Accordingly, the faceplate operates in the conventional manner. However, the fingers 210A / 210B add additional capacitance to the system, which enables the face plate to operate at higher frequencies. The addition of the fingers 210A / 210B enables the system to operate at a higher frequency because, without the capacitive contact, the equivalent circuit of the tap housing (i.e., KS pin to tap seizure post) is a L-C low pass filter (a two pole Butterworth low pass filter). Adding the capacitive contact from the fingers 210A / 210B makes the equivalent circuit of the tap housing a 4-pole Butterworth low pass filter. In many instances, this additional capacitance extends the passband and makes the cutoff of the passband sharper.

[0071] In some instances, the fingers 210A / 210B may include additional fingers that contact the respective KS pin. For example, in some instances, finger 210A may include two electrically discrete fingers, and 210B may consist of 2 electrically discrete fingers. In this configuration, the additional fingers would create additional parallel paths to the KS pin. Effectively, these additional fingers would cause the equivalent circuit to be a 6-pole pole Butterworth low pass filter. Although discussed with regardto 2 and 4-finger configurations, additional higher-order Butterworth low-pass filters can be obtained by adding additional fingers that contact the KS pin.

[0072] In instances, where more than 2 fingers are used, the fingers may form an elliptic low pass filter. In these instances, the instances, a capacitor is effectively formed between the fingers that contact the same KS pin.

[0073] In some instances, the fingers 210A / 210B are connected to ground. In other instances, the finger 21 OA / 21 OB is floating.

[0074] Fig. 4A illustrates a conventional tap housing 400 in the pedestal configuration. Specifically, the figures illustrate a KS pin 412B that is inserted into the vertical entry port 104. The KS pin socket 414B is configured to receive the KS pin 412B. When the KS pin 412B is inserted into the KS pin socket 414B a portion of the KS pin is exposed. This exposed portion of the KS pin is contacted by the finger 210B when the faceplate 300 is inserted into the tap housing 400. In many instances, the KS pin socket 414B is further configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the PCB post connector 204B of the faceplate 300.

[0075] Similarly, Fig. 4A illustrates that the tap housing 400 includes a KS pin socket 414A that is configured to receive the KS pin 412A when the KS pin is inserted into the vertical exit port 106. When the KS pin 412A is inserted into the KS pin socket 414A a portion of the KS pin is exposed. This exposed portion of the KS pin is contacted by the finger 210A when the faceplate 300 is inserted into the tap housing 400. The KS pin socket 414A is further configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the PCB post connector 204A of the faceplate 300.

[0076] Fig. 4B illustrates a conventional tap housing 400 in the areal configuration. Specifically, the figure illustrates a KS pin 412B that is inserted into the horizontal entry port 102. The KS pin socket 414B is configured to receive the KS pin 412B. When the KS pin 412B is inserted into the KS pin socket 414B, a portion of the KS pin is exposed. This exposed portion of the KS pin is contacted by the finger 210B when the faceplate 200 is inserted into the tap housing 400. In many instances, The KS pin socket 414B is further configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the PCB post connector 204B of the faceplate 200.

[0077] Fig. 4B illustrates that the tap housing 400 includes a KS pin socket 414A that is configured to receive the KS pin 412A when the KS pin is inserted in thehorizontal exit port 108. When the KS pin 412A is inserted into the KS pin socket 414A a portion of the KS pin is exposed. This exposed portion of the KS pin is contacted by the finger 210A when the faceplate 300 is inserted into the tap housing 400. In many instances, the KS pin sockets 414A is further configured to electrically and mechanically couple to the PCB post connector 204A of the faceplate 300.

[0078] Figs. 5A - 5D illustrate several cutaway views of the faceplate 200 inserted in the tap housing 400 for an aerial installation. Specifically, the cutaways remove components of the tap housing in order to show the fingers 210A / 210B contacting the KS Pins 412A / 412B, respectively.

[0079] Figs. 6A -6C illustrate several cutaway views of the faceplate 200 inserted in the tap housing 400 for a pedestal installation. Specifically, the cutaways remove components of the tap housing in order to show the fingers 210A / 210B contacting the KS Pins 412A / 412B, respectively.

[0080] Figs. 7A and 7B illustrates an example of a faceplate 700 where the fingers 210A / 210B are mounted on a swivel mechanism 710A / 710B. The swivel mechanism 710A / 710B allows the fingers 210A / 210B to be positioned for either a pedestal or aerial installation. Specifically, Figs. 7A and 7B illustrate that swivel mechanism 710A is rotated so that finger 210A is in the areal configuration. Figs. 7A and 7B further show that the swivel mechanism 710B is rotated so that finger 210B is in the pedestal configuration. Accordingly, by rotating the swivel mechanism of each finger, a field technician can configure the faceplate 700 as either faceplate 200 or faceplate 300.

[0081] In many instances, the swivel mechanism 710A / 710B contacts a respective mechanical stop 712A / 712B in order to properly align the fingers 210A / 210B according to the respective mode. In many instances, the mechanical stop 712A / 712B include a notch or lock that holds the swivel mechanism in the desired position.

[0082] Figs. 8A and 8B illustrate an embodiment of a faceplate 800 featuring a retractable finger mechanism configured in the aerial configuration. In this embodiment, pressing button 802A or button 802B causes the corresponding finger 210A or finger 210B to extend into position. Specifically, as illustrated in Figure 8A, finger 210A is depicted in its extended state, having been deployed in response to theactuation of button 802A. Conversely, finger 21 OB is shown in its retracted state, awaiting activation via button 802B.

[0083] To enhance ease of installation and prevent inadvertent damage, in many embodiments, buttons 802A and 802B are strategically positioned to align with corresponding actuating features on the tap housing 120 or tap housing 400. When the faceplate 800 is inserted and secured within the tap housing, these actuating features engage the buttons, automatically deploying the fingers 210A / 210B. This design eliminates the need for manual deployment by a technician and ensures that the fingers are correctly positioned upon installation. Furthermore, the automatic deployment mechanism mitigates potential issues such as misalignment, accidental bending, or premature wear of the fingers, thereby improving the long-term durability and reliability of the system. In some instances, button 802A and button 802B may be combined into a single button that mechanically couples to both mechanical coupling mechanisms 804A and 804B.

[0084] Fig. 8B illustrates the mechanical coupling mechanisms 804A / 804B that translate the pushing of the button 802A / 802B into the extension of the of finger 210A / 210B. The mechanical coupling mechanisms 804A / 804B serve to translate the linear motion of pressing buttons 802A / 802B into the controlled extension or retraction of fingers 210A / 210B. These mechanisms ensure that the fingers engage with the KS pin inside the tap housing in a reliable and precise manner. One possible implementation involves a lever arm mechanism, where pressing the button pivots a small arm around a fulcrum, pushing the corresponding finger outward. A return spring can be integrated to reset the lever after actuation, ensuring the finger retracts when necessary.

[0085] Another approach employs a gear-driven mechanism, in which pressing the button rotates a small primary gear, which in turn engages a secondary gear connected to the retractable finger. This setup allows for a smooth and controlled extension of the fingers while ensuring they return to their original position upon button release, aided by a spring-loaded reset system. A linkage system is another alternative, using a series of connected rigid bars that translate the button press into the outward motion of the fingers. This design, which operates similarly to a slider-crank mechanism, allows for precise and stable movement while ensuring a secure electrical connection.

[0086] A more intricate option is the cam and follower mechanism, where a rotating cam is used to push the fingers into position. As the button is pressed, the cam rotates, lifting a follower arm that moves the finger forward. When the button is released, a return spring forces the cam back to its initial position, causing the fingers to retract. In some embodiments, a telescoping spring-loaded plunger system may be used, where pressing the button releases a latch that allows a spring to push the finger outward, and upon release, the latch resets, retracting the finger back into its housing.

[0087] These mechanisms ensure that the fingers deploy automatically when the faceplate is installed, preventing manual installation errors while also protecting delicate components from accidental damage.

[0088] Figs. 8C and 8D illustrate an embodiment of a faceplate 800 featuring a retractable finger mechanism configured in the pedestal configuration. The operation of faceplate 800 is identical to the embodiment illustrated in Figs. 8A and 8B however, the fingers 210A / 210B have been positioned to engage with the KS when inserted into the side of the housing.

[0089] Figs. 9A-9D illustrate the mathematics for the electrical engineering principles in accordance with embodiments. Although sample values are shown, in the calculations, embodiments are not limited to these values.

[0090] Fig. 10 illustrates a process 1000 for extending the frequency band of a preexisting tap. In many instances, the process illustrated is performed by a field technician who is upgrading existing cable networking infrastructure to meet the higher frequency requirements of DOCSIS 4.0 and the like. Conventionally, the field technician would need to remove the existing tap, install new KS connectors, and install a new tap to meet the higher frequency requirements.

[0091] Specifically, in Step 1002, the technician removes an old face plate 130 from a tap housing (e.g., tap housing 120 or tap housing 400). Optionally, in step 1004, the technician configures the face for either aerial (e.g., faceplate 200) or pedestal (e.g. faceplate 300) installation. In some instances, the technician reconfigures the faceplate using the swivel mechanism of faceplate 700. In other instances, the technician may manually reposition the fingers 210A / 210B in corresponding slots inthe faceplate. Then, in step 906, the technician inserts the new face plate into the housing.

[0092] With the process 1000 shown in Fig 10, the technician only needs to remove the existing faceplate and install a new faceplate that includes the fingers 210A / 210B. Accordingly, the technician can avoid the difficult and often costly process of splicing in a new tap.

[0093] The disclosed system and method for extending the frequency band of a tap provide a technically efficient and cost-effective solution for upgrading existing cable network infrastructure to meet the demands of DOCSIS 4.0 and Extended Spectrum DOCSIS (ESD). By integrating capacitive contacts into the faceplate design, the invention eliminates the need for complete tap housing replacement, significantly reducing the time, labor, and material costs associated with network upgrades. The ability to reconfigure the faceplate for both aerial and pedestal installations ensures broad compatibility across various deployment environments, allowing network operators to extend bandwidth capabilities while maintaining existing infrastructure.

[0094] A key technical advantage of the disclosed embodiments lies in the transformation of the tap housing's electrical characteristics. By adding capacitive elements to the KS pin connections, the faceplate modifies the equivalent circuit from a 2-pole Butterworth low-pass filter to a higher-order Butterworth or elliptic filter, effectively increasing the operating frequency range and improving signal integrity. This design enhancement enables coaxial cable networks to support higher data rates while mitigating signal degradation, ensuring that broadband services remain competitive with fiber-optic alternatives. Additionally, the automatic deployment mechanism for the capacitive contact fingers reduces installation errors, enhances mechanical reliability, and ensures consistent high-frequency performance.

[0095] Overall, the disclosed embodiments offers backward compatibility, ease of installation, and enhanced network performance — three critical factors for large- scale cable infrastructure deployments. By enabling a simple faceplate replacement instead of full tap replacement, the invention provides an innovative and scalable approach to future-proofing cable networks against evolving broadband standards. This advancement allows service providers to seamlessly transition to higher-frequency operation, ensuring continued reliability and efficiency in delivering highspeed internet and digital communication services.

[0096] Having described the embodiments in detail, those skilled in the art will appreciate that, given the present description, modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit of the inventive concept. Therefore, it is not intended that the scope of the invention be limited to the specific embodiments illustrated and described.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:1 . A faceplate for a tap housing, the faceplate comprising: a plurality of taps that electrically couple to and input port and an output port of the housing; a first finger that is configured to contact a first KS pin when the first KS pin is inserted into the input port and the faceplate is installed in the tap housing; and a second finger that is configured to contact a second KS pin when the second KS pin is inserted into the output port and the faceplate is installed in the tap housing, wherein the first finger and the second finger are configured to increase an operating frequency of the tap housing by adding a capacitor to the KS pin within the tap housing port to convert an equivalent circuit of the tap housing tap from a 2-pole Butterworth filter to a higher order Butterworth filter.

2. The faceplate according to claim 1 , wherein the first finger and the second finger are reconfigurable to support a pedestal configuration of the tap housing or an aerial configuration of the tap housing.

3. The faceplate according to claim 2, wherein the first finger and the second finger are reconfigurable using a swivel mechanism.

4. The faceplate according to claim 1 , wherein the first finger and the second finger are electrically coupled to a ground.

5. The faceplate according to claim 1 , wherein the first finger and the second finger have a floating potential.

6. The face plate according to claim 1 , wherein the higher order Butterworth filter is a 4-pole Butterworth filter.

7. A hardline tap comprising: a housing that includes an input port and an output port;a faceplate installed in the housing, wherein the faceplate includes: a plurality of taps that electrically couple to and the input port and the output port of the housing; a first finger that is configured to contact a first KS pin when the first KS pin is inserted into the input port and the faceplate is installed in the tap housing; and a second finger that is configured to contact a second KS pin when the second KS pin is inserted into the output port and the faceplate is installed in the tap housing, wherein the first finger and the second finger are configured to increase an operating frequency of the tap housing by adding a capacitor to the KS pin within the tap housing port to convert an equivalent circuit of the tap housing from a 2-pole Butterworth filter to a higher order Butterworth filter.

8. The hardline tap according to claim 7, wherein the first finger and the second finger are reconfigurable to support a pedestal configuration of the housing or an aerial configuration of the housing.

9. The hardline tap according to claim 8, wherein the first finger and the second finger are reconfigurable using a swivel mechanism.

10. The hardline tap according to claim 7, wherein the first finger and the second finger are electrically coupled to a ground.11 . The hardline tap according to claim 7, wherein the first finger and the second finger have a floating potential.

12. The hardline tap according to claim 7, wherein the higher order Butterworth filter is a 4-pole Butterworth filter.

13. A method for process for extending an operating frequency of a preexisting tap, the method comprising:removing an old face plate from a tap housing, wherein the tap housing includes an input port and output port; installing a new face plate into the tap housing, wherein installing the new face plate in the tap housing causes: a first finger of the new face plate to contact a first KS pin when the first KS pin is inserted into the input port and the new face plate is installed in the tap housing; and a second finger of the new face plate to contact a second KS pin when the second KS pin is inserted into the output port and the new face plate is installed in the tap housing, wherein the first finger and the second finger are configured to increase the operating frequency of the tap housing by adding a capacitor to the KS pin within the tap housing port to convert an equivalent circuit of the tap housing from a 2-pole Butterworth filter to a higher order Butterworth filter.

14. The method of claim 13 further comprising: reconfiguring the first finger and the second finger based on a configuration of the tap housing.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the reconfiguring is implemented using swivel mechanism of the new face plate.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the first finger and the second finger are electrically coupled to a ground.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the first finger and the second finger have a floating potential.

18. The method of claim 13, wherein the higher order Butterworth filter is a 4- pole Butterworth filter.

19. The face plate of claim 1 , further comprising: a first mechanical button; and a first mechanical linkage that couples the first mechanical button to the first finger, wherein pressing the first mechanical button causes the first finger to move from a retracted state that is not in contact with the first KS pin to an extended state that is in contact with the first KS pin.

20. The face plate of claim 19, further comprising: a second mechanical button; and a second mechanical linkage that couples the second mechanical button to the second finger, wherein pressing the second mechanical button causes the second finger to move from a retracted state that is not in contact with the second KS pin to an extended state that is in contact with the second KS pin.

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