Commscope, Inc.

David H Pixley

Bruce J Carlson

Alan Neal Moe

James L Sorosiak

The communications system transmits both communications signals and electrical power to a plurality of subscribers. The communications signals can include video, voice and data signals. The communications system includes a coaxial drop cable for transmitting both the communications signals and electrical power from a cable tap to at least one subscriber of the communications system. The coaxial drop cable includes an annular outer conductor surrounding the dielectric material and having a mechanically and electrically continuous, non-overlapping tubular metallic shield. The coaxial drop cable has predetermined signal transmission characteristics, including enhanced shielding properties, which are maintained while the coaxial drop cable is flexed due, at least in part, to an increase in the stiffness of the dielectric material relative to the outer conductor. In particular, the dielectric material has a predetermined compressive stiffness of at least 1000 pounds per linear inch while the outer diameter of the outer conductor is less than about 0.04 inches. In addition, the outer conductor typically has a predetermined thickness which is at least 2.5% of the outer diameter of the outer conductor. Accordingly, the coaxial drop cable effectively transmits both communications signals and electrical power while providing enhanced shielding and relatively low electrical resistance and attenuation.

Coaxial drop cable having a mechanically and electronically continuous outer conductor and an associated communications system

A reinforced coaxial cable for underground service is disclosed. The cable generally includes an elongate center conductor, a surrounding dielectric material such as a foamed polymer dielectric, an outer conductor, a first jacket, an intermediate protective layer, and a second jacket. A ripcord can be positioned longitudinally between the first jacket and the intermediate protective layer to facilitate removal of both the intermediate protective layer and the second jacket. A tracer, or other visible indicia, extends longitudinally along the outer surface of the second jacket to facilitate locating the underlying ripcord. The intermediate layer and the second jacket provide increased impact resistance, cut-through resistance, and compressive strength, as well as increased resistance to abrasion and other frictionally induced damage. In addition, the intermediate layer and second jacket can be readily removed to allow increased flexibility or connectorization of the cable.

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Newton, NC, United States of America

David H Pixley