Downstream Modem Channel Analysis and Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current modem technologies are inefficient in quickly locating and establishing a viable downstream channel, requiring up to 40 seconds due to the time-consuming process of methodically stepping through the downstream spectrum at discrete frequency intervals.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilizes a spectrum analyzer to map available channels within the downstream spectrum, allowing a modem to quickly identify and establish communication on a viable channel, with user-specifiable parameters for analysis and channel selection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If present modem technology uses methodical stepping through downstream spectrum at discrete frequency intervals to locate a viable channel, then the channel identification process is systematic and reliable, but the connection establishment time becomes excessively long (up to 40 seconds)
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary spectrum analysis to identify all available downstream channels before the modem needs to establish a connection. The CMTS analyzes the downstream spectrum in advance, creates a map of available channels, and stores this information for quick retrieval when modems need to connect, eliminating the need for time-consuming real-time channel searching
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary spectrum analysis component that acts as a mediator between the CMTS and modems. This intermediary performs the complex spectrum analysis and channel identification work, providing processed channel availability information to modems so they can quickly establish connections without performing their own lengthy spectrum scanning
2Ease of manufacture
If the modem blindly steps through the downstream spectrum starting at highest or lowest frequency, then the channel search process is simple to implement, but the time required to establish downstream connection increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary spectrum analysis and channel mapping before modems need to connect. The CMTS or dedicated analysis component scans the downstream spectrum in advance, identifies available channels, and stores this information in a channel availability map that modems can query immediately upon connection requests
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical stepping process with electronic/signal-based spectrum analysis. Instead of sequentially tuning through frequencies like a traditional radio, the system uses spectrum analysis techniques to simultaneously or rapidly assess channel availability across the downstream bandwidth, dramatically reducing search time
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for identifying a viable channel within an allocated downstream spectrum and establishing communication via a modem thereon. The disclosed technology provides for the broadband analysis of some or all of the available downstream spectrum to obtain a mapping of available channels and directing the modem to establish downstream communication upon at least one of these channels. The system includes an interface via which a user can specify parameters governing the analysis of the available downstream spectrum and the identification of a viable downstream channel.