Method and apparatus for providing uninterrupted service in a hybrid fiber coaxial system

Abstract

Method and apparatus for providing uninterrupted, attenuated RF signal and AC power to downstream multiple port taps, while an upstream multiple port tap is being serviced. A multiple port tap includes a tap housing, an assembly for receiving a main signal from an upstream element and an assembly for outputting the main signal to a downstream element. The tap also includes circuitry that couples the signal receiving assembly to the signal outputting assembly. The tap circuitry used in the tap includes a signal attenuator for maintaining a level predetermined RF signal and AC power level across the tap. A housing cover plate is positioned on the housing for covering the main opening to the housing. The cover plate includes at least one subscriber connection port operatively coupled to the circuitry for delivering a signal to a subscriber. The tap further includes a signal and power bypass having a variable attenuator for coupling to the signal receiving means and signal outputting means. The bypass creates a signal and power pathway around the circuitry so that uninterrupted service is provided to the downstream element while the tap is removed and the tap is being serviced.