System and process for embedded cable modem in a cable modem termination system to enable diagnostics and monitoring

• US 6,853,680 B1
• Filed: 05/10/2000
• Issued: 02/08/2005
• Est. Priority Date: 05/10/2000
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: ARRIS Enterprises LLC (CommScope Holding Company, Inc.)
• Original Assignee: Bigband Networks Bas Inc (CommScope Holding Company, Inc.)
• Inventors: Nikolich, Paul E.
• Primary Examiner(s): Tran, Khai
• Application Number:
  US09/568,628
• Time in Patent Office: 1,735 Days
• Field of Search: 375/222, 375/219, 370/490, 370/353, 370/402, 370/389, 370/465, 370/400, 370/352, 370/450, 370/245, 725/119, 725/121, 725/118
• US Class Current: 375/222
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 12/2801 Broadband local area networks
• CPC Class Codes: H04L 43/50 Testing arrangements

Abstract

The present invention enables the self-diagnosis functionality by embedding a cable modem with the CMTS system with mechanisms to redirect the signals from external connections to the embedded cable modem, thereby enabling the end user to fully test the CMTS using a suite of diagnostic tests. The embedded cable modem integrates the external CM, computer and diagnostic software in the chassis, or alternatively onto the CMTS card in the chassis. The invention enables the end user to fully test the functionality as a stand-alone unit, without relying on any external test equipment or methods. It also enables the end user to diagnose the CMTS from a remote location. Another major advantage of the present invention is that it enables the CMTS/CM function to be verified over the entire physical layer parameter set (frequency, symbol rate, FEC, signal levels, etc.) while not interrupting any of the services that are on the ‘live’ HFC plant.

Claims

1. An apparatus for connecting data distribution networks, comprising:

a head end system in an integrated chassis;

an embedded cable modem in said chassis, said embedded cable modem capable of looping back an asymmetrical signal from said head end system,

whereby self-diagnostic functions are performed at said head end system.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said head end system is a first application module in said chassis and said embedded cable modem is integrated in a chassis controller in said chassis.

3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said head end system and said embedded cable modem comprise an application module in said chassis.

4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said head end system is a first application module and said embedded cable modem is a second application module in said chassis.