High-performance, Cost-effective Solutions for Broadband RF Switching in Headend Environments

Demand for high-quality digital TV and Internet service continues to increase. To meet this demand, cable operators and service providers require flexible, cost-effective, and expandable monitoring and remote testing of both their headend environments and network return paths. The AT1600 series multiplexer switches are ideal test measurement systems components where multiple CATV signals need to be tested through the same spectrum analyzer. The AT1600 series is fully compatible with the AT2500HM series spectrum analyzers as well as the Sunrise Telecom AT2000HM series.

The AT1601M and AT1602M multiplexer switches connect independent analyzers to the CATV network. The AT1602M couples up the 16 RF inputs for both A and B sides of the switch inside the chassis, and units can be daisy-chained to allow RF input configurations of up to 256 inputs and two independently controlled RF outputs. The AT1601M has the same features, but in a single RF output configuration. Using the AT1602M switch instead of two AT1601M switches saves on costs and simplifies wiring. Control options include RS-232 and RS-485 interfaces and front panel buttons for manual operation.

Highlights

• Cost-effective extension and scalability of remote headend monitoring system
• Full 1 Ghz performance RF matrix 16 x 1 (AT1601M) or 16 x 2 (AT1602M)
• Fastest externally controlled switch-to-switch rate – 100 microseconds
• Unity gain through the switch
• Front panel access allows individual manual control of output A or B
• Units can be daisy chained to support up to 256 inputs with AT1601M or up to 256 x 2 with AT1602M