Can someone please send me or expalin why RF upstream plant SHOULD NOT be balanced with a DOCSIS test feature on any meter that has this application.Also explain why RF upstream plant /Downstream RF plant should always be balanced with a good sound sweep system ( WHICH I HAVE BUT IS NOT USED).PM techs are not using the sweep to balance upstream plant and they must stop using the DOCSIS Test feature to perfom this task...........Someone please send me the technical reasons why so I can stop this from occuing in our plant.Headend and Hubs are secured where unity gain is concerned to all services we provide. Node to CMTS, demods ect are 100% correct and will not be changed due to training issues surrounding proper plant balancing technics that have been around for years.Thanks again FRUSTRATED ENG MANAGER LOL!
Hello Frustrated... lol one good reason to use sweep instead of a single carrier on the return would be like having them sweep or balance the forward with the two pilots used for the forward agc channels. granted to the return is generally just 5 to 42 Mhz, but response from equalizers or damaged cable would not show when they balance the return with a few carriers. mismatch or open cable causing standing waves. you find problems with the diplex filters from the sweep that would of otherwise gone unchecked. the key reason I would give is right now is chances are your return is 3.2 Mhz wide. docsis 2.0 can run at 6.4 Mhz wide and docsis 3.0 can have 4 6.4 Mhz channels. they can sweep it now while it's spring and summer time or wait to fix problems in the cold winter months. sort of like that old amco transmission commercial... you can pay me now or pay me later. it's more work to sweep and fix return problems. I can recommend a contractor that would sweep the return and then show the tech's why it needs to be done.
you know that poor return causes all kinds of problems and with higher return spectrum being used down the road, it will cause problems with services. my old manager told me db = $$. I believe Mb = $$ , but both hold true
~Carl
WOW this site really works! LOL.......I know all the good details about sweep and why it should be done but what Im really looking for is a good sound doc which explains why a Line Tech should not be using the ( IN OUR CASE ) the DSAM6000 Docsis Test feature at an Amp or Node to balance the upstream Plant ( kEEP IN MIND WE ARE 2.0 going to 3.0 and have QAMS deployed whci are 3.2 and 6.4) ......Its at a point that they need to be told and the Mananger/Sups in question this is NOT recommeneded and will result in a NON UNITY GAIN concept which will impact customers. End of story.......This is what Im seeking.........Do you know of any doc or whait papaer that will support my concerns?
I don't have any on hand, but know that Motorola gave a white paper regarding return at the last trade show. see if it's on the moto web site.
~Carl
Thank you for your input...Its sad to think this issue has to be drilled home this late in the GAME.....I will look for the supporting data on the Moto site.....