Importance

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Abstract

A bidirectional cable network having a signal distribution system that prevents undesirable energy in the bidirectional cable network's return path from adversely effecting the entire network. The signal distribution system a first signal transmitted in a forward path direction over the bidirectional communication path from a headend to a plurality of remote points. Signals transmitted in a return path direction are time division multiplexed on a series of cyclically reoccurring time slots where at least one of the cyclically reoccurring time slots is assigned to each of the plurality of remote points. At least one primary return gate is effective during each occurrence of the cyclically reoccurring time slots for isolating all of the plurality of remote points from accessing the network to transmit a signal in second direction except for the one of the plurality of remote points which is assigned the cyclically reoccurring time slot that is presently providing a path to transmit in the second direction from the remote point to the headend. In one embodiment each return gate services a plurality of remote points within the return gate's distribution branch. In a second embodiment each remote point has a dedicated return gate.

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First Claim