EP2548339A1

EP2548339A1 - Method for the transmission of signals over a cable television network

Info

Publication number: EP2548339A1
Application number: EP11709020A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Pierre-Alain Cotte
Original assignee: Cotte Pierre-Alain
Current assignee: Exaring AG
Priority date: 2010-03-17
Filing date: 2011-03-17
Publication date: 2013-01-23
Also published as: DE102010034989A1; WO2011113603A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network (10) in an available frequency range (50) in particular of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz between a distributor (90) and one of n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) over at least one carrier frequency (70) lying in the available frequency range (50), wherein the distributor (90) and the subscriber (80) each have a sender (20) and a receiver (30), comprising the step of - identifying (200) at least one carrier frequency (70) within the available frequency range (50) which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of the signals; as well as one or both of the following two steps - setting (210) the sender (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70); - setting (220) the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70); as well as the step of - transmitting (230) the signals by sending (231) and/or receiving (232) on the set carrier frequencies (70). The invention also relates to a device (1) which is suitable for carrying out the method according to the invention.

Description

Method for the transmission of signals over a cable television network

The invention relates to a method for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network between a

distributor and one of n subscribers connected to the cable television network as well as a device for the wired

transmission of signals over a cable television network between a distributor and one of n subscribers connected to the cable television network.

Methods already exist in the state of the art for the wired transmission of digital signals over a cable television network between a distributor and one of n subscribers connected to the cable television network. For example, the DOCSIS or EuroDOCSIS protocol, software and hardware make possible a method in which all subscribers receive on one frequency range and simultaneously send on another frequency range. Data transfer rates of from approx. 32 Mbit/s to

(theoretically) 400 Mbit/s in the send direction from the distributor to the subscriber are achieved for all connected subscribers. In the other direction, the data transfer rates are technically limited because of smaller demand. A disadvantage with the state of the art is that the best use cannot be made of the bandwidth available in the cable television network and the structure of the existing systems is very elaborate, because many analogue and digital signals have to be transmitted simultaneously, and this inevitably leads to congestion, in particular in relation to IPTV

(transmission of television over the Internet), HD and 3D digital television, Internet access and provision of data- intensive digital services or digital, spoken, visual

communication . The object of the present invention is to rectify the

disadvantages of the state of the art. The object is achieved by the independent claims.

Advantageous developments are defined in the dependent claims .

In particular, the object is achieved by a method for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network (10) in an available frequency range (50) in particular of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz between a distributor (90) and one of n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) over at least one carrier frequency (70) lying in the available frequency range (50), wherein the distributor (90) and the subscriber (80) each have a sender (20) and/or a receiver (30), comprising the steps of:

- identifying (200) at least one carrier frequency (70) which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of the signals;

as well as one or both of the following two steps

- setting (210) the sender (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70);

- setting (220) the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70);

as well as the step of

— transmitting (230) the signals by sending (231) and/or receiving (232) on the set carrier frequencies (70).

With this method, the total bandwidth available in the cable television network can be used efficiently by all connected subscribers, in particular for Internet communication. With the help of the method, a bandwidth is made available

exclusively to the subscribers on the cable television network. Above all the bandwidth for download can be used by the subscribers or can be distributed to them in this way. A cable television network, which typically has a tree

structure, is converted into a star structure with the help of the method according to the invention by creating channels (carrier frequency or frequency partial range) which are available exclusively to a subscriber without the need for a physical modification of the network structure. Through a dynamic distribution of the bandwidth to the subscribers, a matching of the distributed bandwidth to the specific

requirement of the subscribers is also possible. In

particular, the frequency range used hitherto for the

transmission of television signals (e.g. of from 85 MHz to 862 MHz) can be (dynamically) distributed for a transmission in one direction — for download — of, in particular, Internet packets to the subscribers. The existing transmission

technology (e.g. boosters) can thus easily continue to be used. Television signals, also in the form of IPTV, are sent to a subscriber in particular only when it actually also wishes to receive the television signal. The remaining bandwidth is available for example for Internet use. In addition, if a subscriber does not use all of the bandwidth on an allocated carrier frequency, the unused bandwidth on a carrier frequency is preferably also further distributed to other subscribers for example by time-division multiplexing or by IP addressing. The method according to the invention therefore makes possible a particularly efficient

distribution of the available bandwidth.

The transmission of signals is preferably a sending and/or receipt of signals. A transmission from the distributor to the subscriber is preferably referred to as downstream transmission, a transmission in the opposite direction as upstream transmission. Signals are preferably digital

signals, particularly preferably digital data in the form of signals. The transmission of data is preferably packet-based.

The cable television network is preferably a coaxial cable television network. A plurality of subscribers, typically in the range of from 50 — 1,000, are connected to a central node by the cable television network. Typically, a cable

television network has a tree structure. This means that, from the central node, a cable leads away which branches again and again until it reaches the subscribers. Thus there is at least one common branch connecting the subscribers to a central node. A separate connection for each subscriber to the central node would be a star structure. Typically, there is no star structure in a cable television network. The central node in the cable television network is usually called a head station. However, there are also network topologies in which a simple hub represents a central node for the subscribers, wherein the hub further preferably has an exclusive direct connection to the head station.

The distributor according to the invention is preferably a device located in the head station (the head end of the cable tree), particularly preferably in a hub. The distributor preferably bundles the information which is sent from the subscribers to the distributor and relays this to a further network, for example the Internet. The distributor is

preferably connected to a fibre optic backbone with very large bandwidth. Preferably, the distributor receives from the other network the information which is intended for one or more subscribers of the cable television network and distributes this information accordingly. Preferably, the distributor additionally carries out a preparation of the information before changing from another network into the cable television network as well as from the cable television network into another network. This preparation is for example an error correction and/or a signal boost.

Preferably, several distributors can be controlled via a central server, with the result that information which is available to the distributor (e.g. information on the

identity of subscribers, information on the load of the cable television network, information on the distributed carrier frequencies) is also relayed to the central server and can be evaluated by this and control functions (e.g. distribution of information to the subscribers, distribution of bandwidth to the subscribers) can also be influenced or even completely taken over by the server. In this way, for example an

Internet provider can run several cable television networks in parallel via this server and identify the subscribers connected to it, and (dynamically) make bandwidths available to them. Where a function of the distributor or information available to the distributor is mentioned in the following, it is thus also to be inferred that this function or

information is preferably also available to a central server or can be controlled and/or even carried out by a central server.

The subscriber according to the invention is preferably a subscriber device, thus a device which is preferably

connected to the cable television network in the house or apartment or at the workplace, etc. of an end-user.

Preferably, the subscriber is a terminal or network terminal. This could be a box that terminates the cable network. For example, a subscriber according to the invention is a modem which is set up to transmit data over the cable television network.

Preferably, a connected subscriber is a subscriber which is physically connected preferably by radio to the cable

television network and particularly preferably sends and/or receives signals over the cable television network. In the case of the preferred connection of the subscriber to the cable television network over a radio link, there is also a device which is physically connected directly to the cable television network and makes possible the radio link to the subscriber. Preferably, a "subscriber" is a "connected subscriber" as soon as and as long as the subscriber or the subscriber device is supplied with power. Particularly preferably, a "subscriber" is a "connected subscriber" from the moment of the first sending and/or receipt of signals. Preferably, a connected subscriber is no longer a connected subscriber from the moment of the last sending and/or receipt of signals. Particularly preferably, a connected subscriber remains a connected subscriber for a certain period of time T from the moment of the last sending and/or receipt of signals and is no longer a connected subscriber after expiry of the certain time T. Preferably, T lies in the range of from one second to one week, particularly preferably from 30 minutes to one day, quite particularly preferably from one hour to 12 hours. Quite particularly preferably, a subscriber is

permanently connected to the cable television network, wherein the subscriber is then preferably always ready to send and/or receive. The sender is preferably an apparatus which is set up to apply signals to the cable television network preferably in the form of voltage fluctuations.

The receiver is preferably an apparatus which is set up to detect, and preferably to process, signals preferably in the form of voltage fluctuations which are present on the cable television network due to other senders. The available frequency range is preferably the frequency range which contains, firstly, the frequencies with which analogue and/or digital television signals were and/or are usually sent from the head station to the individual

television receivers over the cable television network.

Preferably, the available frequency range also contains further frequencies which are technically usable in the respective cable television network for the transmission of signals. Preferably, the available frequency range comprises frequencies in the range of from 5 MHz to 3,000 MHz,

preferably to 2,000 MHz, particularly preferably to 1,000 MHz, quite particularly preferably to 862 MHz, 614 MHz,

450 MHz or 300 MHz.

A carrier frequency is preferably a frequency over which signals can be transmitted by means of a frequency modulation method. A carrier frequency preferably lies within the available frequency range. Preferably, carrier frequencies lie within the available frequency range at approximately equal distances to each other in the frequency spectrum. Such a distance is preferably approx. from 7 MHz to 8 MHz in

Europe, preferably approx. 6 MHz in America. Data can usually be transmitted at a rate of approx. 32-50 Mbit/s (Europe) and approx. 30 Mbit/s (America) respectively over carrier

frequencies with such a distance to each other. Preferably, carrier frequencies are grouped according to the direction of transmission (e.g. transmission from the subscriber in the direction of the distributor) of signals on the respective carrier frequency. Preferably, the thus existing groups of carrier frequencies have a distance to each other. There are preferably 100, particularly preferably 200, carrier

frequencies in the available frequency range, particularly preferably in one or more groups of carrier frequencies. Preferably, a frequency partial range is associated with a carrier frequency, with the result that there is at least one carrier frequency in a frequency partial range. An analogous approach to the sub-division of the available frequency range by carrier frequencies is also the sub-division of the available frequency range into frequency partial ranges. The available frequency range is sub-divided into frequency partial ranges, wherein there is at least one carrier

frequency in a frequency partial range. Preferably, a carrier frequency is the centre frequency of a frequency partial range.

A frequency partial range is preferably a frequency range which lies within the available frequency range. If there is only one frequency partial range, the frequency partial range is preferably equal to the available frequency range.

Preferably, the available frequency range is sub-divided into frequency partial ranges, wherein the frequency partial ranges are preferably all approximately the same size, and preferably have approximate distances to each other in the frequency spectrum. For example, a frequency partial range is a frequency range which presently is or has been already used for a television channel in the cable television network.

Such a frequency partial range preferably has a frequency bandwidth of from approx. 7 MHz to 8 MHz in Europe,

preferably approx. 6 MHz in America. Data can usually be transmitted over such a frequency bandwidth at a rate of approx. 32-50 Mbit/s (Europe) and approx. 30 Mbit/s (America) respectively. Preferably, the available frequency range is sub-divided into two frequency ranges which each serve only to transmit signals in one direction (e.g. from the distributor to the subscribers or from the subscribers to the distributor) . Preferably, these two frequency ranges have a distance to each other in the frequency spectrum. Preferably, these two frequency ranges are sub-divided into frequency partial ranges. In this way, frequency partial ranges which have a common transmission direction are adjacent. This subdivision of the available frequency range, as well as the grouping of carrier frequencies (see above) with the same transmission direction, is advantageous e.g. for the

technical requirements to be met by signal boosters

(reception boosters and transmitter amplifiers), as their characteristics then do not have to be at their best in all of the available frequency range, but only in a smaller frequency range. Preferably, already existing systems

(filters, boosters, repeaters, etc.) designed for such a frequency division continue to be used. Preferably, the available frequency range or at least one of the frequency ranges provided only for one transmission direction is sub- divided into preferably 100, particularly preferably 200, frequency partial ranges. Thus, preferably 100, particularly preferably 200, subscribers can simultaneously send and/or receive. In the case of a frequency bandwidth of 800 MHz of the available frequency range or of a frequency range

available only for one transmission direction, a frequency bandwidth of a frequency partial range of approx. 8 MHz, particularly preferably approx. 4 MHz, thus preferably results in each case. A carrier frequency which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber is preferably a carrier frequency which may be used only by the subscriber and the distributor for the transmission of the signals. Other subscribers (the remaining n-1 subscribers) must not use this carrier frequency to send and/or receive signals. Preferably, other subscribers may use this carrier frequency only when this carrier frequency is not, or is only partly, being used by the subscriber. In this case, when there is joint use of a carrier frequency, the (still) existing bandwidth is preferably distributed by the

distributor to the subscribers using this carrier frequency by IP packet priorities and/or time-division multiplexing and/or code-division multiplexing and/or by another

scheduling method. Preferably, a carrier frequency previously used in the cable television network for the transmission of television signals is available exclusively to an individual subscriber for the transmission of the signals. The

distributor uses this carrier frequency only to send signals to the subscriber and/or to receive them from the subscriber. In the following, "exclusively" or "in respect of the

remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively" is to be understood, even if it is only stated that a carrier frequency "is available to a subscriber" — "exclusively" or "in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively" thus having been omitted in such a case. Also only "the available carrier frequency" is analogous as well as "exclusive ( ly used) carrier frequency". Preferably, several carrier frequencies are available to the subscriber for the transmission of signals, wherein it is also possible that carrier frequencies which are available to another subscriber lie between the carrier frequencies which are available to the subscriber. Preferably, part of the available frequency range which is predetermined by the carrier frequencies available to the subscriber is thus available to the subscriber. In the same way, there is also a frequency partial range which is

available to the subscriber. Preferably, the frequency range available to the subscriber is thus composed of different frequency partial ranges. For example, a plurality of channels previously used exclusively for the transmission of television signals from the distributor to the subscriber are available to the subscriber for sending and/or receiving signals .

The identification of the carrier frequency which is

available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber for the transmission of the signals is preferably a determination, particularly

preferably an identification of information by the subscriber and/or the distributor, of which carrier frequency or which carrier frequencies is or are available to the subscriber for the transmission of the signals. Preferably, at least one firmly assured carrier frequency for the transmission of signals is available to each subscriber. Preferably, the subscriber and/or the distributor identifies information as to which carrier frequency or which carrier frequencies are to be used to send signals or data to the subscriber and/or receive them from the subscriber. Preferably, the

identification of at least one carrier frequency is analogous to the identification of at least one frequency partial range. Preferably, the identification is a read-out of at least one memory or item of information coded in hardware, wherein it is stated in the memory or the information says which frequency partial ranges or carrier frequencies are available to the subscriber. An identification of a frequency partial range is also analogous to the identification of a carrier frequency. The setting of the sender to at least one carrier frequency is preferably a setting of the sender, with the result that signals are modulated to the carrier frequency. Preferably, the sender is set to several carrier frequencies, with the result that signals are modulated to different carrier frequencies which preferably lie in different frequency partial ranges which are available to the subscriber for the transmission of signals. Preferably, the setting of the sender is a signal-processing measure which preferably selects for example coefficients of a (discrete) Fourier transform or a similar time-frequency range transform which corresponds to the carrier frequencies or the carrier frequency to which is it to be set.

Preferably, these coefficients are modulated by the signals to be sent. Such a processing measure is preferably carried out by a signal processor, as part of a transmittsion by using "Discrete Multitone Transmission" (DMT). Preferably, in this application, carrier frequencies correspond to so called "bins" used for DMT and DMT is used for receiving and sending signals .

The setting of the receiver is analogous to the setting of the sender, also in the preferred embodiments. Preferably, the setting of the receiver is such that signals modulated to one or more carrier frequencies are received and demodulated.

Preferably, orthogonal basis functions (e.g. sine + cosine) are used for the modulation and demodulation. Preferably, the signals are additionally coded in the sender, decoded and/or equalized in the receiver. Particularly preferably, sender and/or receiver are set such that a QAM method and/or another modulation method is carried out. The sending on the set carrier frequencies preferably takes place such that the frequency spectrum of the sent signal or sent signals (the send spectrum) lies only within the

frequency partial range associated with the respective carrier frequency. Preferably, a modulation method with which the respective frequency partial range is optimally utilized is used for this, but no frequencies lying outside of the frequency partial range are occupied by the send signal. The receipt on the set carrier frequencies is a receipt of signals in which preferably only the frequency partial range which is associated with the respective carrier frequency or which is available to the subscriber for the transmission of signals is taken into account. Preferably, the signals on a carrier frequency are filtered out via a filter, i.e. the frequencies which do not lie within the available frequency partial range are suppressed by the filter.

By using carrier frequencies that are exclusively available to one subscriber, private channels in frequency domain are obtained. A tree network topology is thereby transformed into a real star topology, since each subscriber has its own transmission frequency. Virtually, each user has got a separate cable. A great advantage on such a channel with only a single subscriber is the absence of collisions and thus shorter latencies are possible. Furthermore, a minimum bit rate guarantee to subscribers is realizable.

Furthermore, the private channel has security advantages. Since each subscriber has its own frequency, hacking on a software based level is difficult, if even impossible. As will be described later each subscriber is preferably

identified by, e.g. a chip internal identification number within the subscriber device. This allows for a high security level and reliable billing mechanisms, as preferably the frequency and the identity of one subscriber is repeatedly compared with the information of the billing account of the same subscriber. The security of conventional IP over cable systems is low as cable users get the same signal on the same cable cluster/tree, and this is easy to hack. In the case of private channels, determined by exlusively available carrier frequencies, a hacker would have to hack the personalised subscriber device, get the right frequency and manipulate the billing account, as well as servers in between. Thus much more effort is needed.

In a further method according to the invention, the receiver (30) and/or the sender (30) of the subscriber (80) is set to multiple frequencies (70), which are available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of signals, and preferably to multiple frequencies (70) and one or more shared frequency (71).

Preferably, in the case of low load of the cable television network, one subscriber uses multiple exclusively used carrier frequencies for transmission, either for download and/or for upload. Thereby, the available bandwidth is allocated to the few active connected subscribers. This offers the advantage that one subscriber is able to transmit with (extremely) high bit rates (preferably up to 8 Gbit/s) when enough bandwidth is available. In the case that one subscriber is the only active subscriber in the cable

television network, this subscriber is able to use the whole available bandwidth alone. When shared frequencies are used, the available bit rates sum up to the bit rates over the shared frequencies plus the bit rates of the exclusively used carrier frequencies that are used by one subscriber (e.g. a possible scenario in the case of two active subscribers, each uses: 0.5 Gbit/s on a shared carrier frequency plus 3.5

Gbit/s on an exclusively used carrier frequency) . Preferably the data streams of multiple carrier frequencies are

aggregated by bonding. In a further method according to the invention, the following steps are carried out:

— identifying (200) at least one carrier frequency (70) within the available frequency range (50) which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of the signals;

— setting (210) the sender (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70);

— setting the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one carrier frequency (70);

— transmitting (230) the digital signals by sending (231) and/or receiving (232) on the set carrier frequencies (70).

Through this combination of the setting of sender or receiver of the distributor or the subscriber respectively, signals are transmitted in the direction from the distributor to the subscriber on at least one carrier frequency which is used exclusively for this subscriber. Signals in the direction from the subscriber to the distributor are transmitted on another carrier frequency. In a further method according to the invention, the following steps are carried out:

— identifying (200') at least one shared carrier frequency (71) within the available frequency range (50) which is available to multiple, preferably all of n subscribers (80) for the transmission of signals;

as well as one or both of the following two steps

— setting the sender (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified shared carrier frequencies (71); — setting the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified shared carrier frequencies (71);

as well as the step of

— transmitting the signals by sending and/or receiving on the set shared carrier frequencies (71).

A shared carrier frequency is preferably a carrier frequency on which every subscriber is allowed to send and/or receive signals. These carrier frequencies are shared carrier

frequecies between multiple, preferably all subscribers, resulting in a shared bandwidth. Preferably, access to a shared channel, determined by a shared carrier frequency, is controlled by TDM and/or packet based control methods (e.g. one or any combination of: ALOHA, Slotted ALOHA, R-ALOHA, MACA, MACAW, CSMA, CSMA/CD, CSMA/CA, DCF, PCF, HCF,

CSMa/CARP, Token ring, Token bus, Mobile slotted ALOHA, DTN, Mobile Ad-Hoc Networking, Dynamic Source Routing). Preferably, a part of the available frequency range which is predetermined by the shared carrier frequencies available to multiple, preferably all subscribers is thus available to the subscriber. The bandwidth of the part of the available frequency range, which is predetermined by one shared carrier frequency, is preferably bigger than a part of the frequency range that is exclusively available to one subscriber. The summed bandwidth of the parts of the available frequency range, which are predetermined by the shared carrier

frequencies, is preferably bigger than than a part of the frequency range that is exclusively available to one

subscriber. Preferably, the shared bandwith is chosen such that it allows for bit rates over the shared carrier

frequency/ies higher or equal to 1 Gbit/s, particularly preferable 2 Gbit/s in downstream direction and higher or equal to 50 Mbit/s, particularly preferable 100 Mbit/s in upstream direction. An exclusively used bandwidth preferably is chosen such that it allows for bit rates over one

exclusively used carrier frequency in the range from 5 Mbit/s to 50 Mbit/s, typically 10 Mbit/s to 20 Mbit/s in downstream direction; 0 . 5 Mbit/s to 20 Mbit/s, typically 1 Mbit/s to 2 Mbit/s in upstream direction. Preferably, the aforementioned bit rates hold under the assumption that 200 to 400

subscribers per cable tree are simultaneously active.

Assuming that 50% of all connectable subscribers are active at peak times, 400 to 800 subscribers can then be served by one tree of the cable network.

Preferably, the shared bandwidth in downstream direction is by the factor x bigger than the bandwidth exclusively used by one subscriber. Preferably, the shared bandwidth in upstream direction is by the factor y bigger than the bandwidth exclusively used by one subscriber. Preferably x is in the range 50 to 200 , particularly preferred it is 100 . Preferably y is in the range 20 to 100 , particularly preferred it is 80 .

Factor x and factor y as well as the mentioned bit rates typically depend upon the number of subscribers, future available bandwidth and modulation, as well as marketing requirements (e.g. fast download may be more

demanded/important than permanent minimum bandwidth) .

Preferably, in downstream direction, one shared carrier frequency is used, and for each connected subscriber, an exclusively used carrier frequency is used. Particularly preferably, in upstream direction, one shared carrier

frequency is used, and preferably, for each connected

subscriber, an exclusively used carrier frequency is used. The identification of the shared carrier frequency is

analogous to the identification of the carrier frequency that is exlusively available to one subscriber. By setting the sender and/or receiver of distributor and/or subscriber to one ore more shared carrier frequencies a part of the available bandwidth can be made available to multiple subscribers. This shared bandwidth adds up to the bandwidth that is available to a subscriber exclusivley. When only one subscriber is sending/receiving on a shared bandwith, because other subscribers are inactive (not connected), the

subscriber is able use the sum of shared and exclusive bandwith. Therefore, a maximal bandwith for one user is realizable that is much higher than if all the available bandwith was distributed to the subscribers using only exclusively used carrier frequencies. At the same time, a minimal bandwith and a higly secure connection is realized by the exclusively used carrier frequency. Therefore,

preferably, the permanent network usage of each subscriber (for which e.g. 10-20 Mbit/s may be sufficient) is separated from the peak download or peak usage, by "reserving" e.g. 1 Gbit/s as a part of the bandwidth, which is available to all users . In a further method according to the invention, at least one other of the n subscribers (80) uses at least one carrier frequency (70) to send signals which is identical to the at least one carrier frequency (70) to which the receiver (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (30) of the

subscriber (80) is set.

Preferably, in this way, the subscribers share at least one carrier frequency for joint "upload" (direction from the subscriber to the distributor), wherein each subscriber uses a portion of the available transmission capacity over this at least one carrier frequency.

In a further method according to the invention, the at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) to which the sender (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the receiver (30) of the

subscriber (80) is set lies in the range of from 85 MHz to 862 MHz. In a further method according to the invention, the at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) to which the receiver (20) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (30) of the subscriber (80) is set lies in the range of from 5 MHz to 65 MHz. In a further method according to the invention, sender (20) and receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or sender (20) and receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) are set (210,220) to at least one identical carrier frequency (70, 71) . Preferably, sender and receiver are set to an identical carrier frequency such that there is at least one carrier frequency which is used by the subscriber for both directions of the transmission (sending and/or receipt). As a subscriber preferably typically sends or receives, and a simultaneous sending and receipt is not normally as frequent, access contentions, i.e. the simultaneous sending and receipt on an identical carrier frequency, are minimized naturally through the use of an identical carrier frequency for the sending and the receipt of signals of the subscriber. Preferably, orthogonal basis functions (e.g. sine + cosine) by which send and receive signals are separated from each other are used for the modulation and demodulation to identical carrier frequencies . In a further method according to the invention, the signals which are transmitted on an identical carrier frequency (70, 71) and/or signals which have at least partially overlapping signal frequency spectra are separated from each other by a time-division multiplexing (TDMA) and/or a code-division multiplexing (CDMA) method.

Preferably, an access contention on a carrier frequency which results from the simultaneous sending of the subscriber and sending of the distributor and/or of another of the n-1 subscribers to the subscriber is resolved by the use of a time-division multiplexing and/or a code-division

multiplexing method. In a time-division multiplexing method, the time is preferably divided into ranges which are each available either only to the subscriber for sending signals to the distributor or only to the distributor for sending signals to the subscriber. In a code-division multiplexing method, the signals are preferably coded before the sending, wherein the code used by the distributor is approximately orthogonal to the code used by the subscriber.

In a further method according to the invention, the available frequency range (50) consists of at least one frequency partial range (60) and the at least one frequency partial range (60) preferably consists of several frequency subranges (61), wherein there is at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) within the at least one frequency partial range (60) and/or each of the several frequency sub-ranges preferably present.

In a further method according to the invention, the

identification (200) of the at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) takes place according to one or more different parameters . Preferably, the subscriber and/or the distributor independently identifies which carrier frequency is available to the subscriber for the transmission of the signals, taking into account one or more different parameters. Examples of such parameters are given further below.

In a further method according to the invention, the

identification (200) of at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) is carried out repeatedly.

Preferably, the identification of a carrier frequency is carried out in a fixed repetition rhythm. It is preferably identified which carrier frequencies are additionally

available to the subscriber for the transmission of the signals or which carrier frequencies are no longer available to the subscriber, but to another of the n-1 subscribers for the transmission of the signals. During the running time of the method, a changeable stock of carrier frequencies is thus preferably available to the subscriber for the transmission of the signals.

In a further method according to the invention, the following step is additionally provided:

— generating (240) an allocation of the carrier frequencies (60) to the n subscribers (80) connected to the cable

television network (10).

The generation of an allocation is preferably the generation of information as to which carrier frequencies are available in each case to the n subscribers connected to the cable television network for the transmission of the signals. The allocation thus preferably says which carrier frequencies are available or reserved in each case for the subscribers. Preferably, the generation of an allocation is the generation of a list, wherein the list gives directly for each of the n subscribers the carrier frequencies and/or the cutoff

frequencies (lower and upper cutoff frequency) of the

frequency partial ranges which are available to the

respective subscriber for the transmission of the signals. Preferably, the allocation is represented as a matrix. The generation of an allocation of frequency partial ranges to the n subscribers connected to the cable television network is analogous.

In a further method according to the invention, the

generation (240) of an allocation of the carrier frequencies (70) takes place according to one or more different

parameters .

Preferably, one or more different parameters are taken into account when generating an allocation of the carrier

frequencies to the n subscribers connected to the cable television network, with the result that these influence the allocation.

In a further method according to the invention, the

generation (240) of an allocation is carried out repeatedly.

Preferably, the generation of an allocation takes place with a repetition rhythm which is the same as the repetition rhythm for the step of identifying a carrier frequency.

Preferably, a dynamic allocation of the carrier frequencies to the n subscribers connected to the cable television network thus takes place.

In a further method according to the invention, a parameter is the changing load of the cable television network (10), a priority due to a subscriber or a payment which is made for the use of the cable television network (10), a signal interference present in the cable television network (10), the number of subscribers (80) that are requesting or

receiving signals destined to multiple subscribers (80) or a tag, which is applied to the signals that a subscriber is requesting or sending and/or receiving.

The number of subscribers that are requesting or receiving signals destined to multiple subscribers is e.g. the number of subscribers streaming the same IP-video (or audio) content. Preferably, the identification of the carrier frequency on the subscriber side and/or the allocation of carrier frequencies is influenced so that the subscribers, which are streaming the same IP-video (or audio), are setting their receivers on the same carrier frequency. Thereby, only one stream has to be transmitted over the cable. Preferably this signals are then sent in a multicast manner, e.g. IP multicast. Since these subscribers get the same

signal/information, security level is not weakened although several subscribers use the same frequency. An advantage of this multicasting of data streams is that the tree can support even more subscribers at peak times, avoiding in that case to use the less secured shared frequency at peak times for the additional subscribers who cannot get an exclusively allocated frequency.

It is generally accepted that, at peak times there are up to 50% of users active in one tree: preferably, if there are more than 50% - or what ever is chosen as the limit

percentage for a particular tree — the less secure shared frequency for serving those additional subscribers would be used, until the peak vanishes. This means e.g. that with shared bandwidth for bit rates around 1 Gbit/s up to 100 additional subscribers with 10 Mbit/s each would be served, although less secure. Preferably, it can be reasonably assumed as well that at such peak times over 50% of users active a few subscribers in the same tree may get the same TV channels/information. Therefore this multicast feature — the incorporation of the number of subscribers that are

requesting or receiving signals destined to multiple

subscribers — is useful to preserve security and keep the shared frequency e.g. for fast downloads, rather than

extending the number of users.

A tag, which is applied to the signals that a subscriber is requesting or sending and/or receiving is e.g. a tag in a packet based protocol. Preferably, it identifies the content type of the content that is transported by the signals. The content type, as an example, can be one or more of the following: live-Video-content, (emergency-) telephony-content, (emergency- )message-content, video-on-demand-content,

document-transfer-content, general-internet-content.

Furthermore the number of subscribers that are requesting or receiving signals destined to multiple subscribers and/or the aforementioned tag preferably determine the priority of the affected subscribers. Free bandwidth (unused carrier

frequencies) in the system is preferably allocated to those multiple subscribers, which receive the same content, at the same time. Free bandwidth could also be allocated with higher priority to subscribers that send/receive content with a certain tag. The number of subscribers that are requesting or receiving signals destined to multiple subscribers and/or the aforementioned tag preferably determine an amount of

bandwidth redundancy (active or passive) provisioned to the affected subscribers. Preferably this redundancy influences the step of identifying a carrier frequency, which is performed by other subscribers, by tagging the redundant bandwidth (carrier frequencies) as 'reserved'. The step of carrier frequency allocation, preferably by a control server on the distributor side, is influenced by provisioned

redundancy directly, such that carrier frequencies, which are reserved for redundancy reasons, are only allocated to subscribers to whom this redundancy is reserved.

The load of the cable television network is preferably measured by how many of the carrier frequencies present are actively occupied by the n subscribers connected to the cable television network by sending and receiving data. Preferably, a carrier frequency is occupied by a subscriber when it is available to the subscriber for the transmission of signals and the subscriber sends and/or receives signals on it.

Preferably, the load of the cable television network is a list of the carrier frequencies occupied by subscribers and/or the unoccupied carrier frequencies. Preferably, the identification of a carrier frequency depending on the changing load of the cable television network is a

determination of the unoccupied carrier frequencies and the selection of one or more of these unoccupied carrier

frequencies. Preferably, the generation of an allocation according to the changing load of the cable television network is an allocation of many carrier frequencies to one subscriber if a few carrier frequencies are occupied, or an allocation of a few carrier frequencies to one subscriber if many carrier frequencies are occupied. Preferably, an

identification of the at least one carrier frequency which is available to a subscriber and/or the generation of an

allocation takes place with the optimization goal of a 100% load of the cable television network.

The payment which is made for the use of the cable television network is preferably proportional to the number of the carrier frequencies which are available to the subscriber proportionately on the total available frequency range permanently or at least for a guaranteed minimum time or a guaranteed quantity of signals (transmission volume).

Preferably, this payment thus determines what total bandwidth is proportionately available to the subscriber.

There may be a permanent or temporary signal interference in the cable television network. A signal interference

influences the capacity of the transmission channel which a carrier frequency represents. On a carrier frequency where there is signal interference, only a reduced quantity of signals or data can be transmitted. Such inequalities of the different carrier frequencies are preferably taken into account as parameters when identifying the carrier frequency and/or allocating the carrier frequencies to the subscribers.

Preferably, one or more of these parameters is or are

included with preferably different weighting in the

identification of a carrier frequency and/or the generation of an allocation. Preferably, the parameters used change.

Preferably, new parameters are used for the identification of the carrier frequency and/or the generation of an allocation of the carrier frequencies to the subscribers. Preferably, at least one of the parameters used is repeatedly updated preferably with the same repetition rhythm as the repetition rhythm for the identification of a carrier frequency and/or the generation of an allocation. For example, the updating of the parameter of the load of the cable television network when the load changes preferably leads to new carrier

frequencies which are available to a subscriber.

Preferably, a parameter is also a request by a subscriber or the distributor to use additional bandwidth, i.e. preferably to use more carrier frequencies. Preferably, such requests are sent from a subscriber to the distributor and the

distributor decides, when generating an allocation, whether this request is granted (additional bandwidth is made

available to the subscriber) or refused. If a user wishes, for example, to watch a TV programme in addition to sending a large E-mail, a request for more bandwidth is sent by his modem (subscriber or subscriber device). If, for example, bandwidth is freely available, this is preferably made available to the user's modem, with the result that the user can watch the TV programme with no loss of quality at the same time as transmitting the E-mail. Preferably, it is also possible to make bandwidth, i.e. preferably carrier

frequencies, which is available to a subscriber available to another subscriber by generating an allocation and/or

identifying a carrier frequency, with the result that this carrier frequency is no longer available to the first

subscriber. Preferably, this is carried out if the other subscriber is a privileged subscriber vis-a-vis the first subscriber. A subscriber is preferably privileged if making a higher payment, particularly preferably if wishing to send an emergency call for example. Preferably, a payment is to be made for the increased occupation of carrier frequencies for a particular period of time and/or a certain transmission of data. For example, a user pays a one-off sum of EUR 3 in order to download a film from an online library using the total available bandwidth (the total available frequency range ) .

Preferably, a parameter is also a temporal course,

particularly preferably the period of time during which a subscriber occupies at least one carrier frequency. In this way, for example, a user is prevented from permanently blocking other users by continuously paying EUR 3 — as a continuation of the above example.

An advantage of the dynamic allocation is for example that the whole of the available frequency range can be used for the transmission of signals for a subscriber if no other subscriber is using the cable television network (for example at 3:00 in the morning). If, for example, all n subscribers are using the cable television network for Internet,

television, telephoning, etc. in the evenings, the available frequency range is distributed to the subscribers according to the named parameters.

A parameter is preferably a random number.

In a further method according to the invention, the

identification (200) of the carrier frequency (70, 71) is a reading by the subscriber (80) of at least the part of the allocation concerning it alone. Preferably, the subscriber reads, preferably from a list, which carrier frequencies are available to it for the

transmission of the signals. Preferably, the allocation is designed to be read, such that the subscriber can read only which carrier frequencies are available to it and cannot read which carrier frequencies are available to the other

subscribers and/or to a particular other subscriber.

In a further method according to the invention, the

distributor (90), preferably a server (91) controlling several distributors, generates (240) the allocation.

Preferably, the distributor carries out a routine which generates an allocation of the carrier frequencies to the subscribers. Preferably, the distributor distributes the information concerning the allocation to the subscribers.

In a further method according to the invention, the

distributor (90), preferably controlled by the server (91), sends the allocation as a signal, preferably in packet form, on a carrier frequency (70, 71) preferably within a frequency partial range (60) provided for the purpose, wherein in each case at least the part of the allocation concerning it alone is readable for each of the n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10).

The allocation as a signal is preferably a data sequence which contains the allocation preferably as a list.

Preferably, the allocation as a signal is sent continuously repeated from the distributor to the connected subscribers. If the allocation changes, the changed allocation is

preferably sent as a signal. The carrier frequency or

frequency partial range provided for the sending of the allocation as a signal is preferably a so-called information channel which can preferably be received by the subscribers on a preferably fixed carrier frequency known to the

subscribers. Preferably, the subscribers also send allocation information, preferably allocation information generated or changed by a subscriber, over the information channel.

Preferably, the allocation as a signal is encrypted.

Preferably, a subscriber decrypts only the part of the allocation which indicates which carrier frequencies are available to the subscriber. Preferably, the subscribers receive the allocation as a signal, preferably decrypt the allocation as a signal, and identify from the allocation preferably by reading the allocation which carrier

frequencies are available to them in each case for the transmission. In a further method according to the invention, a fibre optic ring (100) is used to connect the cable television network (10) to at least one media-switching server (110).

A media-switching server is preferably the access point of an Internet provider and/or a master station of a broadcasting company (TV, Radio) and/or a telecommunications service provider.

Preferably multiple interconnected fibre optic rings and/or a fibre optic mesh is used to connect the cable television network (10) to at least one media-switching server (110). The fibre optic ring is preferably a fibre optic network consisting of at least one fibre optic which preferably connects the distributor (preferably the distributor in the head station) to other distributors of other cable television networks preferably in annular manner. The fibre optic ring results in the advantage of redundancy: if the ring is interrupted at one point (maintenance work, malfunction, etc.) there is still a connection between the distributors connected to the ring. In a further method according to the invention, at least one, preferably all, of the n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) is, or are, identified one or more times via an identifier unique to each subscriber (80), in particular a preferably encrypted, previously fixed and/or an assignable identifier which is preferably one, or a combination, of

an identification number present in an electronic chip, a MAC address, an IP address and/or identification number preferably dynamically or statically assigned by the distributor (90) or by the server (91) and

contract and/or billing data and/or a customer number of the respective subscriber.

The identification is preferably carried out by the

distributor, particularly preferably by the server.

Preferably, the identifier represents a parameter according to the invention for the allocation of carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges to the subscribers.

An identification number present in an electronic chip is preferably a unique identification number (e.g. a serial number) input into the chip during production, and preferably no longer alterable. The identifier is preferably encrypted such that preferably only the distributor or the central server can decrypt it. In a further method according to the invention, the following step is additionally provided:

- converting the signals to data packets, in particular

Ethernet data packets. The conversion is preferably into data packets which

correspond to the presets of the TCP/IP protocol or other data transfer protocol or Ethernet specifications or also into DVB-compliant packets (MPEG packets), RTP/RTTP/RTSP packets (Real Time Streaming Protocol), IGMP packets

( Internet Group Management Protocol ) , DVB or packets of other streaming, unicast or multicast protocols. Preferably, the data packets are already transmitted between subscriber and distributor over the cable television network, but on or in a carrier frequency or frequency partial range available for the subscriber. The conversion is then preferably the

demodulation/modulation (preferably with the step of

decoding/coding) of the data packets from/to the carrier frequency used for the transmission over the cable television network into/from the frequency range used for the data protocol (baseband of the protocol).

In this way, reliable Ethernet network components

( router/switch, etc.) customary in the trade can be used. Technically elaborate and thus expensive mixed systems or mixed system devices (such as are required for example by the present conversion of DOCSIS) which guarantee both analogue television transmission and digital multimedia transmission (Ethernet) are no longer necessary.

The object is furthermore achieved by a device (1) for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network (10) in the available frequency range (50) in particular of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz between a distributor (90) and one of n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) over at least one carrier frequency (70) lying in the available frequency range (50), comprising

— a sender (20) with at least one frequency modulator (21) and a receiver (30) with at least one frequency demodulator (31), wherein the sender (20) can be set via the frequency modulators (21) present, and the receiver (30) via the frequency demodulators (31) present, to at least one carrier frequency (70) in particular in the range of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz,

- an identification apparatus (40) which is set up to

identify at least one carrier frequency (70) which is

available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers (80), exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of the signals. The frequency modulator is preferably set up to modulate a signal to a carrier frequency. Preferably, the sender has a plurality of such frequency modulators, with the result that the sender can be set by the frequency modulators to a plurality of carrier frequencies and signals can be sent on these different carrier frequencies. Preferably, a plurality of frequency modulators are realized by at least one

component which is preferably set up to carry out digital signal processing. Preferably, the components present, which are frequency modulators, are set up to carry out a Fourier transform or another time-frequency range transform.

Preferably, the coefficients of such a transform can be modulated with the signals to be sent. Preferably, there is a coder upstream of the frequency modulator.

Analogously to the sender, the receiver preferably comprises a plurality of frequency demodulators with which the receiver can be set to a plurality of carrier frequencies, with the result that signals which are sent on these carrier

frequencies can be received. Preferably, there is an

equalizer upstream of the receiver. Preferably, there is a decoder downstream of the receiver. Preferably, the receiver and/or the sender is set up to modulate or demodulate signals with orthogonal basis

functions and/or to send or receive signals using a QAM method and/or FM method. The identification apparatus is preferably set up:

— to determine the parameters which are to be taken into consideration when identifying the carrier frequency. For example, the identification apparatus has a scanning device with the help of which the available frequency range can be scanned and it can be determined which carrier frequencies are occupied by other subscribers and/or which carrier frequencies are unoccupied; and/or

— to receive and/or read a preferably changing allocation of the carrier frequencies to the subscribers over a carrier frequency provided for the purpose, wherein at least the part of the subscriber concerning it alone can be received and/or read; and/or

— to receive an allocation by using the receiver present; and/or

— to generate an allocation of the subscribers to the carrier frequencies; and/or

— to repeatedly identify a carrier frequency and/or

repeatedly generate an allocation of the carrier frequencies to the subscribers.

The analogous approach to carrier frequency and frequency partial range also preferably applies in the case of the device according to the invention.

In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the identification apparatus (40) is set up to identify at least one shared carrier frequency (71) which is available to multiple, preferably all of the n subscribers (80) for the transmission of signals.

Preferably the sender/receiver comprises one frequency modulator/demodulator dedicated for the use with one shared carrier frequency. Particularly preferable, the

sender/receiver comprises one frequency modulator/demodulator able to modulate/demodulate both, shared carrier frequencies and exclusively used carrier frequencies. Therefore, the modulator/demodulator (modem) is set up to switch between the exclusively used carrier frequency (with e.g. 2-3 MHz bandwidth) and the shared carrier frequency (e.g. 1 Gbit/s pool frequency, with 120-160 MHz bandwidth) as needed.

Preferably, the switching to the shared frequency is only for a short time, for example for the download of a HD movie, 2-5 GB, which would take less than 20 to 50 seconds).

Having at least two modems, one for an exclusively used frequency and a big one for the shared frequency offers the advantage of permanently checking the identity of the

subscriber, while using the shared frequency. Furthermore, having multiple modems for one or more exclusively used frequencies and/or for one or more shared frequencies offers the advantage of separate data transmissions, which do not conflict with each other. As an example, a live video stream on an exclusively used carrier frequency does not interfere with data of a file download on another exclusively used or shared carrier frequency. Therefore, latencies due to data conflicts are shorter or even not possible. In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the identification unit (40) has an arithmetic unit (41) and/or a memory unit ( 2).

The memory unit is preferably set up to store one or more allocations of the subscribers to carrier frequencies and/or information as to carrier frequencies which are available to a subscriber for sending and receiving; and/or to store parameters according to which carrier frequencies or an allocation of the carrier frequencies are identified or is generated, which are/is available to the subscriber ( s ) .

The arithmetic unit is preferably set up to calculate, and/or read from the memory unit, frequency partial ranges and/or carrier frequencies preferably including one or more

parameters .

In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the device (1) has a multiplexing apparatus (120) which is set up to separate signals by a time-division (TDMA) and/or code- division (CDMA) multiplexing method.

Preferably, the multiplexing apparatus is set up to separate from each other send and receive signals which are

respectively sent and received on a common carrier frequency.

In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the device (1) has a connection unit (130) which is set up to convert optically transmitted signals into digital and/or analogue signals.

The connection unit preferably has an optocoupler for

coupling the fibre optic ring to the cable television

network. Preferably, the connection unit is set up to carry out one or more modulation methods with which the optically transmitted signals are modulated on the fibre optic ring.

In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the device (1) is connected to a fibre optic ring (100).

In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the device (1) has a unique identifier. Preferably, the identifier is stored in the memory unit or implemented unalterable in hardware. Preferably, the

identifier is encrypted and preferably the key needed to decrypt it is available only to the distributor. In a further embodiment example of the present invention, the device ( 1 ) has at least one interface apparatus for

converting the signals into data packets, in particular

Ethernet data packets.

Preferably, the interface is an interface for creating TCP/IP data packets and/or data packets according to a different transfer protocol or other Ethernet specifications and/or data packets such as for example DVB-compliant packets (MPEG packets), RTP/RTTP/RTSP packets (Real Time Streaming

Protocol), IGMP packets (Internet Group Management Protocol), DVB, or packets of other streaming, unicast or multicast protocols. Preferably, the interface is set up for connecting network components customary in the trade, such as e.g.

wireless access point, router, switch, etc. Preferably, the device also has a serial interface (e.g. USB, FireWire,

SATA) , with the result that devices, such as printers, hard disks for storing the digital entertainment, input/output devices, video camera/webcam, game controllers, etc., can be connected.

It is possible with the invention described here to use the frequency range which is available in a cable television network for the transmission of signals very advantageously above all for bidirectional transmission. Through the use of carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges which are available at least in one transmission direction exclusively to a single subscriber for the transmission of signals to and from the distributor (preferably the head station), the available bandwidth is distributed to the different

subscribers and each subscriber, preferably itself, decides which content (signals) are sent and/or received over this available partial bandwidth (one or more carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges). Preferably, the previous services, above all the broadcasting of TV programmes by the distributor to the n subscribers are changed to a method according to the on-demand principle. Preferably, only signals or data which are requested and/or sent by a

subscriber are thus transmitted over the cable television network. Preferably, an optimum utilization of the available frequency range by the connected subscribers is almost achieved by a dynamic distribution of the available carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges. Preferably, such a dynamic distribution or allocation is controlled by the distributor. In the ideal case, the whole available frequency range (thus all available carrier frequencies) is thus available to an individual subscriber for the transmission of signals. Thus, taking certain basic load scenarios as a basis, transmission rates of more than 1 Gbit/s can be made available for a subscriber (e.g. if 20 frequency partial ranges at 8 MHz or 50 Mbit/s are used by a subscriber; or 50 ranges at 2-3 Mhz or 10-20 Mbit/s), or even up to 5 Gbit/s or more under favourable conditions .

Preferably, the dynamic allocation of the carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges takes place in a self-organizing and/or random manner. Preferably, an individual subscriber independently identifies and occupies one or more carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges. Particularly

preferably, the allocation of the carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges is determined according to one or more parameters, whereby preferably aspects such as for example the signal quality of the different carrier

frequencies or frequency partial ranges, differences in the priorities of the individual subscribers which are preferably payment-based and/or task-based (e.g. emergency call, film download) are taken into account. The device according to the invention preferably makes it possible to carry out a method according to the invention. The device according to the invention has a sender and a receiver, wherein the sender can be set by at least one frequency modulator to at least one carrier frequency and the receiver can be set by at least one frequency demodulator to at least one carrier frequency. The device preferably has an identification apparatus which determines which carrier frequencies or frequency partial ranges are available

exclusively to the subscriber for the transmission.

The invention will now be further explained by way of example using drawings. There are shown in:

Figure la an overview of the components to which a method according to the invention relates,

Figure lb a schematic flow chart of a method according to the invention,

Figure 2a an allocation according to the invention of m

frequency partial ranges to n subscribers

connected to the cable television network, wherein the sub-division of the available frequency range into frequency partial ranges is also shown,

Figure 2b an allocation according to the invention of

carrier frequencies to the connected subscribers,

Figure 3a a sub-division of the frequency partial ranges

into frequency sub-ranges

Figure 3b a sub-division of the available frequency range into frequency partial ranges, with the result that the signal boosters already present for the cable television network can be used on the basis of the transmission direction and the carrier frequency of the frequency partial ranges,

Figure 4 a diagram of a use according to the invention of a fibre optic ring to provide one or more coaxial cable television sets with media, wherein the media are transmitted within the coaxial cable television network with the help of a method according to the invention,

Figure 5 a diagram of a device according to the invention for the wired transmission of signals,

Figure 6 a diagram of a further embodiment example of a

device according to the invention for the wired transmission of signals, Figure 7a a division, according to the invention, of the

available frequency range into frequency partial ranges with shared and exclusively used carrier frequencies , Figure 7b a division, according to the invention, of the

available frequency range into frequency partial ranges with shared and exclusively used carrier frequencies, wherein the exclusively used carrier frequencies are (also) available in upstream direction,

Figure 8 a functional schematic of a device according to the invention that is installed on the distributor's side,

Figure 9 a functional schematic of a device according to the invention that is installed on the subscriber's side, using optional bonding,

Figure 10 a functional schematic of a device according to the invention that is installed on the subscriber's side, without bonding.

Figure la shows an overview of the components to which a method according to the invention relates. The subscriber 80 (here two subscribers T_l and T_n are indicated) has a sender 20 and a receiver 30. The distributor 90 has a sender 20 and a receiver 30. The cable television network 10 connects n subscribers 80 to the distributor 90. Overall, one available frequency range 50 is available for the transmission of signals over the cable television network. The available frequency range 50 consists of at least one frequency partial range 60 or there is at least one carrier frequency 70. In this overview, two frequency partial ranges 60 and two carrier frequencies 70 are shown, wherein the frequency partial ranges 60 are of different sizes. The carrier

frequencies 70 here correspond in each case to the centre frequencies of the frequency partial ranges 60.

During operation of these components, the subscribers 80 transmit signals from and/or to the distributor 90. All subscribers use the cable television network jointly. At least one subscriber 80 and/or the distributor 90 carries out a method for this.

Figure lb shows a schematic flow chart of a method according to the invention. Method steps and combinations of method steps (indicated by arrows) which are optional are identified by dotted lines.

It is identified in a step 300 which frequency partial range(s) 60 or which carrier frequency/frequencies 70 of the available frequency range 50 is or are available to the subscriber 80 and to no other subscriber for the transmission of the signals between subscriber 80 and the distributor 90. In a step 210, the sender 20 of the distributor 90 and/or the receiver 30 of the subscriber 80 is set to one or more carrier frequencies 70 identified in step 200 or which lies or lie within the frequency partial ranges 60 identified in step 200. In a step 220, the receiver 30 of the distributor 90 and/or the sender 20 of the subscriber is set to one or more carrier frequencies 70 identified in step 200 or which lies or lie within the frequency partial ranges 60 identified in step 200. Step 210 and step 220 are linked by "AND/OR". In a step 230, signals are transmitted on the set carrier frequencies 70. The transmission is a sending 231 and/or a receipt 232 of signals.

Through the method shown here, a spreading-out of the

available frequency range 50 into carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 is achieved, wherein in each case a carrier frequency 70 or a frequency partial range 60 is used only by a single subscriber 80 for the transmission of signals at least in one transmission direction. Each of the subscribers 80 can thus send signals to the distributor 90 and/or receive them from the distributor 90 on carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 each reserved specially for the respective subscriber 80. In this way, an advantageous utilization of the available frequency range 50 is possible. As the arrow shown by a dotted line from step 230 to step 200 shows, step 200 can be carried out repeatedly after or during the transmission of signals on the set carrier frequencies 70. At least one carrier frequency 70 or a frequency partial range 60 which is available for the respective subscriber is then repeatedly identified. The arrow shown by a dotted line from step 200 to step 230 indicates that optionally, for example where the re-identification of available carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 produces no change to the previously available carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60, steps 210 and 220 are not carried out yet again after step 200. Step 230 is preferably not interrupted by a repetition of step 200. Repetitions of steps 210, 220 or, as named below, 240, also preferably do not necessitate an interruption of step 230. The step 240 shown by a dotted line is the generation of an allocation of the connected subscribers 80 to the carrier frequencies 70 and frequency partial ranges 60 respectively. In this

example, step 240 takes place before step 200, with the result that step 200 identifies the carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 available for a subscriber 80 from the allocation generated by step 240. The arrow shown by a dotted line from step 230 to step 240 indicates that step 240 is also carried out repeatedly.

Through the repetition of step 200, a dynamic distribution of the individual carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 to the connected subscribers 80 is possible. The generation of an allocation in a step 240 makes it possible to distribute the carrier frequencies 70 or frequency partial ranges 60 to the connected subscribers 80 in a specific method step. In an embodiment of the invention, this method step is carried out centrally by the distributor 90 and the subscribers 80 only carry out step 200, wherein the allocation generated by the distributor 90 is binding on the subscribers 80 for the identification of the carrier

frequency 70 or the frequency partial range 60. It is thus possible to regulate, from a central point, how much

bandwidth (number of carrier frequencies 70 or number and size of the frequency partial ranges 60) is to be made available to which subscriber 80.

Figure 2a shows an allocation according to the invention of m frequency partial ranges 60 to n subscribers 80 connected to the cable television network 10, wherein the sub-division of the available frequency range 50 into frequency partial ranges 60 is also shown. Preferably, m ≠ n. This figure shows a uniform division of the available frequency range 50 into m frequency partial ranges 60 in a diagram, the x-coordinate of which represents the frequency in MHz and the y-coordinate the signal spectrum. In this example, each of these m

frequency partial ranges 60 has a carrier frequency 70 (f₁ ... f_m) . The n subscribers 80 are in turn connected to a distributor 90 via a cable television network 10.

In operation of the invention, each subscriber 80 uses a frequency partial range 60 to send data from the subscriber 80 to the distributor 90 (up) and to receive data from the distributor 90 to the subscriber 80 (down) on an identical carrier frequency 70 in each case. The subscribers 80 and the distributor 90 each send on the respective carrier

frequencies 70 such that the signal spectrum of the sent signals lies in each case within the respective frequency partial range 60.

Through the sub-division of the available frequency range 50 into frequency partial ranges 60 in each of which only one connected subscriber 80 sends and/or receives signals, the transmission capacity of the cable television network 10 can be used at the same time by all subscribers 80, without reciprocal interferences. In this way, each subscriber 80 obtains its own transmission channel to the distributor 90, with the result that the cable television network 10 laid out in a tree structure is used like a network with a star structure which also has a unique transmission channel to a central distributor for each subscriber. Figure 2b shows an allocation according to the invention of carrier frequencies 70 to the connected subscribers 80. In this allocation, the carrier frequencies f_l f₂, f_m are available to the subscriber _x for the transmission. In each case, no carrier frequencies 70 are available to the

subscribers T₂ and T_n for the transmission of signals. The carrier frequency is available to the subscriber T^.

However, the subscriber Τ_η. uses the portion of the bandwidth on the carrier frequency f₂ not used by T₁ (indicated by a dotted double arrow) . However, it is ensured by an IP packet prioritization that the bandwidth which the subscriber T — to whom this carrier frequency is available according to the allocation - uses is thereby available to it unchanged, with the result that it is not disadvantaged as a result of its being co-used by T^. T_j has the highest priority on the frequency f₂ and thus a bandwidth guarantee.

In operation of the invention shown here, the allocation of the carrier frequencies 70 to the subscribers 80 is dynamic. In this allocation, the most carrier frequencies 70 are available to the subscriber T_x. The following causes named by way of example can, each or in combination, have led to this:

- subscriber T₂ is switched off. The carrier frequency f₂ becoming free was therefore not being used. Subscriber T_j determined, when identifying at least one carrier frequency 70 by scanning the carrier frequencies 70 , that the carrier frequency f₂ is not being used and proved this by sending and/or receiving on this unused carrier frequency 70 and thus claimed it for itself.

- An extra payment has been made for the subscriber T_lt in order that it can at least temporarily use additional carrier frequencies 70 . A smaller payment was made for the subscribers T₂ and T_n, compared with subscriber T_n__l and they must thus temporarily relinquish transmission bandwidth.

- Subscriber T_n has not sent or received any more data for two hours. T_: has sent a request to the distributor 90 , in order that an additional carrier frequency 70 is made available to it for a video conference. The distributor 90 then identified which carrier frequencies 70 are not being used by sending and/or receiving data and

determined that (among others) the carrier frequency f_m has not been used by the subscriber T_n for two hours now. The system is set up such that a connected

subscriber 80 that has not carried out an active

transmission for more than 1.5 hours is no longer considered to be a connected subscriber 80 . The

distributor 90 takes account of the request by the subscriber T_x during the repeated generation of an allocation of the subscribers 80 to the carrier

frequencies 70 and allocates the carrier frequency f_m to the subscriber T_x (among others). The distributor 90 then sent the updated allocation to all subscribers 80 on an information channel (not shown). The subscriber T_x then received the updated allocation on the information channel and identified the carrier frequencies 70

available to it by reading the allocation. The sender 20 and the receiver 30 of the subscriber T₁ were then set to the additional carrier frequency f_m and the sending and receipt of the data for the video conference began.

- The subscriber T_x has sent a request for an emergency call. This is for example a request to the distributor 90 with an emergency call ID. The distributor 90

received the request and generated an allocation which provides the subscriber T₁ with sufficient transmission capacity for an emergency call. It was decided by random number that the carrier frequencies f₂ and f_m are no longer to be available to the subscribers T₂ and T_n, to the benefit of the emergency call. The distributor 90 then immediately sent the allocation to the subscribers 80. According to a repeat identification of the carrier frequencies 70 which are available to the subscribers 80, in each case by the subscribers 80, subscribers T₂ and T_n are no longer sending and receiving and T₁ is additionally sending on the carrier frequencies 70 which were previously available to the subscribers T₂ and T_n for sending and receiving signals.

- T_j uses the carrier frequency f₂ to receive an IPTV

programme. The IPTV programme requires, in this case, approx. 2-10 Mbit/s. However, 50 Mbit/s can be

transmitted on the carrier frequency f₂. There are thus 48-40 unused Mbit/s. The distributor has determined this incomplete use of the carrier frequency f₂ and therefore allows T_n_j to use the bandwidth still available there. This takes place in this example via priorities of the sent IP packets.

Through this type of dynamic allocation of the carrier frequencies 70 to the subscribers 80 which, as shown by way of example, is designed to be controllable in different ways or self-organizing, centralized or decentralized, the

distribution of the available transmission capacity to the connected subscribers 80 can constantly be matched to the requirements of the subscribers 80. In this way, the

available frequency range 50 is used very advantageously.

Unlike an inflexible transmission of television signals from the distributor 90 to the subscribers 80, which also occupies transmission capacity when a TV programme is not being used, with the invention shown here each user himself decides whether to use the transmission capacity of the cable

television network 10 allocated pro rata to him for the receipt of a television programme or else for other services with bidirectional transmission.

Figure 3a shows a sub-division of the frequency partial ranges 60 into frequency sub-ranges 61. In this example, each frequency partial range 60 has two frequency sub-ranges 61. The frequency sub-ranges 61 each have a carrier frequency 70. The lower carrier frequency 70 is provided for the sending of signals from the subscriber 80 to the distributor 90 (up;

return channel), the higher carrier frequency 70 is provided for the receipt of signals from the distributor 90 to the subscriber 80 (down; forward channel). The frequency subrange 61 "down" is larger than the frequency sub-range 61 "up". In operation of the invention, the send signals are separated from the receive signals within a frequency partial range 60 available to a subscriber 80 by different carrier frequencies 70. The forward channel occupies a higher bandwidth than the return channel. A subscriber 80 sends data within a frequency partial range 60 and within a frequency sub-range 61 on the higher carrier frequency 70 in the direction of the

distributor 90 and receives data which the distributor 90 sends to the subscriber 80 within a frequency partial range 60 and within a frequency sub-range 61 on the lower carrier frequency 70.

The additional separation of this type prevents conflicts between send and receive signals. The asymmetric division of a frequency partial range 60 into two frequency sub-ranges 61 makes possible different transmission capacities for the forward channel and the return channel. In this way, e.g. transmission methods which are used for DSL or ADSL can also be used in a method according to the invention and/or a device according to the invention, as these systems also divide the forward and return channel into two different frequency ranges. This coupling of already proven methods with this new invention has great economic advantages among others, as partial use can be made of existing architectures and these have already optimized parameters, with the result that the best use is made of the available transmission capacity. Figure 3b shows a sub-division of the available frequency range 50 into frequency partial ranges 60, with the result that the signal boosters already present for the cable television network 10 can be used on the basis of the

transmission direction and the carrier frequency 70 (not drawn in) of the frequency partial ranges 60. Signal boosters already in use are mostly characterized by a fixed separation of the available frequency range 50 into two frequency ranges, wherein one frequency range is provided only for the transmission of data from the distributor 90 to the

subscribers 80 ("down") and the other frequency range only for the transmission of data from the subscribers 80 to the distributor 90 ("up"). In the example shown here, signal boosters which are designed for frequency divisions customary in Germany (BK 862) are used (for another country or another cable television network or another standard — e.g. BK 300 , BK 450 or BK 614 — the frequency divisions customary there, in particular the separation of "up" and "down", are to be taken as a basis). The frequency range "down" extends from 85 MHz to 862 MHz. Within this frequency range "down", the frequency partial ranges 60 are realized for example as a channel pattern ( 7-8 MHz bandwidth per frequency partial range 60 ) . However, another division which need not

necessarily represent a pattern would also be possible. In another example, the frequency range "down" (and/or "up") consists of just a single frequency partial range 60 and the signals of the different subscribers 80 are separated by TDMA and/or CDMA. The frequency range "up" extends from 5 to

65 MHz and is thus at a distance of 20 MHz from the frequency range "down", whereby e.g. interferences between the

transmission directions "up" and "down" are avoided. The possibility of a discretization of this frequency range "up" by frequency partial ranges 60 with frequency bandwidths between 7 and 8 MHz is shown by a dotted line. An alternative discretization possibility is e.g. a discretization of this range into e.g. a hundred frequency partial ranges 60 each with 0 . 6 MHz frequency bandwidth. Further possibilities of the use of this frequency range "up" and/or of the frequency range "down" are, in addition, e.g. the separation of the data of the subscribers 80 by TDMA and/or CDMA or a

separation at protocol level (e.g. by IP packets and

addresses) or a (partial) combination of these methods as well as the demand-dependent distribution of the available transmission bandwidth. A corresponding division of carrier frequencies 70 for "up" and "down" is also analogous.

In operation of the invention, the existing signal boosters are used. During the discretization of the frequency range "down" into frequency partial ranges 60 with bandwidths of from 7 to 8 MHz and use of the modulation method 256-QAM, a transmission rate of from approx. 32 to 50 Mbit/s is achieved for a frequency partial range 60. However, if the signal-to- noise ratio present in the cable television network allows a 1024-QAM or even a 4096-QAM method, much higher transmission rates are also achievable. The use of the 60 MHz bandwidth of the frequency range "up" results overall in a transmission rate of from approx. 300 to 500 Mbit/s (depending on the type of modulation and/or signal-to-noise ratio). A transmission rate of from approx. 3 to 5 Mbit/s is therefore not available to each subscriber e.g. if one hundred subscribers are active at the same time. In particular, the distribution of the bandwidth for "down" is important because of the constant need (and the necessary guarantees) for bandwidth for e.g. television.

The invention can be applied to already existing systems by a sub-division of the available frequency range 50, as in a manner shown in Figure 3b. Thus there is no need to acquire new distributor-side signal boosters and/or intermediate amplifiers. An adaptation or a replacement of the signal boosters (preferably for forward and return channels) is preferably carried out for a planned long-term use of a larger available frequency range 50 (for example frequencies of up to 3,000 MHz) .

Figure 4 shows a diagram of a use according to the invention of a fibre optic ring 100 to provide one or more cable television networks 10 with media, wherein the media are transmitted within the cable television networks 10 using a method according to the invention. The media originate from one or more media-switching servers 110. As an option, a server 91 is also represented here which accesses the head stations 90 of the individual cable television networks as a higher-order control organ.

In operation of the invention, data from a cable television network 10 are optically coupled into the fibre optic ring 100 in the distributor 90 and relayed. A much higher

transmission capacity is available on the fibre optic ring 100 than in a cable television network 10, with the result that the bundling of the data from the cable television networks 10 does not overload the fibre optic ring 100. In addition, the transmission of the data on the fibre optic ring 100 has only very short delay times, which makes Voice over IP (VoIP), video conferences but also the Internet and above all Internet television (IPTV) more attractive. The optional server 91 controls the head stations 90 and manages for example the customer data of the subscribers, establishes subscribers' priorities, identifies the subscribers, etc. The optional server 91 is preferably also connected to the fibre optic ring (not shown in Fig. 4).

Figure 5 shows a diagram of a device 1 according to the invention for the wired transmission of signals. The device 1 is accommodated in a housing. The sender 20 has a frequency modulator 21. The receiver 30 has a frequency demodulator 31. The frequency modulator 21 and the frequency demodulator 31 are connected to the cable television network 10. The device 1 also has an identification apparatus 40.

During operation of the device according to the invention, the identification apparatus 40 identifies one or more frequency partial ranges 60 which may be used for sending and/or receiving signals. The frequency modulator 21 uses one of the identified carrier frequencies 70 (either it is known in which frequency partial range 60 which carrier frequency 70 is used or it is, as default, the centre frequency of the frequency partial range 60 ) and modulates send signals with this carrier frequency 70 and sends these to the cable television network 10 . The frequency demodulator 31 uses a carrier frequency 70 for the demodulation of a receive signal and relays these data. If there are several frequency

modulators 21 and/or frequency demodulators 31 , the

information to be transmitted is distributed to the different frequency modulators in the sender 20 and/or the information received by the different frequency demodulators 31 is combined in the receiver 30 .

Through the device according to the invention, it is possible to identify, through the identification apparatus 40 , one or more frequency partial ranges 60 which is or are available in each case exclusively to a subscriber 80 for the transmission of signals over the cable television network 10 . The carrier frequencies 70 used to send and/or receive can be set by a sender 20 with one or more frequency modulators 21 and/or a receiver 30 with one or more frequency demodulators 31 . In this way, at least one frequency partial range 60 can be used for each connected subscriber 80 for the bidirectional transmission of signals. Figure 6 shows a diagram of a further embodiment example of a device 1 according to the invention for the wired

transmission of signals. In this embodiment, sender 20 , receiver 30 , identification apparatus 40 , frequency modulator 21 and frequency demodulator 31 form a structural unit. In this example, the identification apparatus is designed for the identification of one or more carrier frequencies 70 . In this example, the component is a microcontroller which is set up to perform the tasks of the individual components by digital signal processing. Digital signal-processing routines, such as e.g. digital filters, fast Fourier

transform, frequency spectrum analyses, frequency modulation and/or frequency demodulation algorithms, error-correction algorithms, equalization algorithms, etc., are implemented on the microcontroller. The method according to the invention runs as a computer program on the microcontroller.

A flexible system architecture of the device 1 is chosen by the realization of the invention with one or more

microcontrollers. Hardware need not be replaced or modified for updates, process modifications, changes in the parameters for the identification of frequency partial ranges 60, etc., but it suffices to carry out an update of the microcontroller or the arithmetic unit. In a further example, such an update for the subscribers 80 is carried out remotely by the

distributor 90 over the cable television network 10.

Figure 7a shows a division, according to the invention, of the available frequency range 50 into frequency partial ranges 60 with shared and exclusively used carrier

frequencies 71 and 70. The bandwidth from 5 MHz to 65 Mhz is used as a shared bandwidth in upstream direction with a shared carrier frequency 71. By suitable encoding, bit rates from 400-500 Mbit/s are achievable on this bandwidth. This bit rate plus the bit rate of the exclusively available bandwidth is the maximum bit rate for each subscriber. The bandwidth from 80 Mhz to 240 Mhz is used as a shared

bandwidth in downstream direction with a shared carrier frequency 71. By suitable encoding, bit rates around 1 Gbit/s are achievable on this bandwidth. Preferably, the shared bandwidths in upstream and/or downstream direction consist of multiple shared frequency sub-ranges, with respective shared carrier frequencies 71. The bandwidth from 240 Mhz to 870 Mhz is divided into frequency partial ranges 60 for downstream direction, exclusively available to one subscriber and with corresponding carrier frequencies 70 . The bandwidth of each exclusively used frequency partial range 60 is approximately 2 Mhz. Bit rates of 10-20 Mbit/s are achievable over each of these exclusively available frequency partial ranges 60 .

These bit rates are the minimum bit rates available to each subscriber.

Figure 7b shows a division, according to the invention, of the available frequency range 50 into frequency partial ranges 60 with shared and exclusively used carrier

frequencies 71 and 70 , wherein exclusively used carrier frequencies 70 are (also) available in upstream direction. The bandwidth from 5 MHz to 20 Mhz is used as a shared bandwidth in upstream direction with a shared carrier

frequency 71 . By suitable encoding, bit rates of

approximately 100 Mbit/s are achievable on this bandwidth. The bandwidth from 20 Mhz to 65 Mhz is divided into frequency partial ranges 60 for upstream direction, each exclusively available to one subscriber and with a corresponding carrier frequency 70 . The bandwidth of each exclusively used

frequency partial range 60 is approximately 0 . 14 Mhz. Bit rates of approximately 1 Mbit/s are achievable over each of these exclusively available frequency partial ranges 60 .

Figure 8 shows a functional schematic of a device 1 according to the invention that is installed on the distributor's side. The upper half of the Figure 8 refers to the downstream path (to the subscribers), the lower part to the upstream path (from the subscribers). The device comprises a connection unit 130 , that is on one side connected to a fibre optic ring 100 . The connection unit 130 is a downlink router, comprising five to eight chips, that each transmit digitial signals with maximal bit rates at approximately 1 Gbit/s. On the other side, the connection unit 130 is (functionally) connected to a multiplexing unit 120. Here, the multiplexing unit 120 is a downlink router, multiplexing the maximum input of at least 4 Gbit/s into n (the number of connected subscribers) virtual channels ("bins"). In this case 384 virtual channels are used, each is capable of forwarding digital signals with a capacity of 10 Mbit/s. The sender 20 is connected to the downlink router 130 as first input and to the downlink router 120 as further inputs. The sender 20 comprises means for encoding (e.g. QUAM-Encoder ) , means for DAC-converting and frequency modulators 21, 21'. The sender 20 is connected to the cable television network 10 on its output port over a Diplexer 140. The receiver 30 is connected on its input port to the cable television network 10 over the Diplexer 140. The receiver 30 comprises a splitter with frequency demodulators 31 and 31' and an ADC. Here, the receiver 30 comprises 384 (n) frequency demodulators 31 for demodulating on exclusively used carrier frequencies 70 in upstream direction and one frequency demodulator 31' for demodulating on a shared carrier frequency 71. The receiver 30 is on its output port connected with another connection unit 130. This uplink router 130 is set up to process digital signals with maximum bit rates of 384 x 1 Mbit/s and 1 x 100 Mbit/s and to

transmit the processed signals into the fibre optic ring 100, to which it is connected on its output port.

During operation of the device according to the invention, the downlink router 130 forwards signals at a maximal bit rate of 1 Gbit/s to a dedicated frequency modulator 21', which then modulates these signals onto a shared carrier frequency 71. This capacity of 1 Gbit/s is reserved as pool for all subscribers, e.g. for peak signal transmission in downstream direction. Further digital signals are, at maximum bit rates from 4 Gbit/s to 7 Gbit/s, forwarded to the downlink router 130, which is multiplexing the signals into 384 virtual channels, each exclusively available to one subscriber. Each virtual channel has a capacity of 10 Mbit/s. The digital signals on these channels are encoded, modulated and converted to analog signals (or first converted and then modulated) on exclusively used carrier frequencies 70. The Diplexer 140 separates signals in the upstream (5-65 Mhz) and downstream path (88-862 Mhz). In the upstream direction functional part, incoming signals are processed by the receiver 30 (converted into digital signals, demodulation, decoding). The frequency demodulator 31' demodulates signals sent by the subscribers on a shared carrier frequency 71.

Therefore, a capacity of 100 Mbit/s is reserved, serving as a pool for all subscribers, e.g. for peak signal transmission in upstream direction. The other frequency demodulators 31 demodulate on exclusively used carrier frequencies 70. For each exclusively used carrier frequency 70, a bandwidth corresponding to a capacity of 1 Mbit/s is reserved. The upstream router 130 is demultiplexing the digital signals and forwarding them into the fibre optic ring 100.

Preferably, the functional parts mentioned can partly be combined into grouped entities or realized as software, especially where digital signals are being processed. As an example, the connection units 130 and the multiplexing unit 120 may be merged into one functional (software) unit. Also, sender 20 and receiver 30 may be merged into one functional (software) unit. Figure 9 shows a functional schematic of a device according to the invention that is installed on the subscriber's side, using optional bonding, preferably Ethernet bonding (link aggregation) . A diplexer 140 is connected to the cable network 10, separating upstream and downstream signal traffic. In the downstream path, k demodulators 31 for exclusively used carrier frequencies 70 and one demodulator 31' for one shared carrier frequency 71 are embedded into a receiver block 30. k is equal or less n, with n the number of subscribers. Preferably, k is equal or less than the number of modulators 21 on the distributor's side (384 modulators in the example of Fig. 8). An aggregator unit or demultiplexing unit 121 is connected to the receiver 31, aggregating the k+1 demodulated data streams into one stream with a maximum bit rate of 10 Mbit/s times k, plus 1 Gbit/s. A LAN-Controller 150 serves as interface to the subscriber's internet-, TV- and/or Multimedia-devices. The upstream path is structured analogous. Instead of demodulators 31, 31' modulators 21, 21' are used, instead of a receiver 30 a sender 20, instead of an aggregating unit 121 a multiplexing unit 120 is used.

Furthermore different bit rates are realized and different frequency ranges are used. In the sender 20 and/or receiver 30, an identification code is stored that is either

accessible from the distributor's side and/or sent by the subscriber's once or repeatedly upon start and/or during the course of data transmissions.

During operation of the device according to the invention, signals are received and demodulated by the receiver 30. In the case of low load of the cable network such that one subscriber can use even multiple exclusively used carrier frequencies 70, multiple exclusively used carrier frequencies 70 are used for receiving. Additionally, a shared carrier frequency 71 is used for receiving. In the case of bonding, the resulting demodulated datastreams are bonded, resulting in one datastream of a capacity of 1 Gbit/s plus k times 10 Mbit/s. A LAN-Controller 150 prepares and forwards this data stream to, e.g. a RJ-45 socket. In the upstream path, data flow is analogously reversed. Also for upstream, multiple exclusively used carrier frequencies are used at times with low data traffic. At least two carrier frequencies (one exclusive and one shared) are usable by one subscriber.

Figure 10 shows a functional schematic of a device according to the invention that is installed on the subscriber's side, without bonding. The schematic is similar to Figure 9.

Instead of an aggregator unit 121 multiple LAN-controllers 150 are part of the device.

During operation of the device according to the invention, signals are received and demodulated by the receiver 30. Each demodulated data stream is forwarded to a LAN-Controller 150. For example: file download data arrives on the shared carrier frequency 71, this data is forwarded to a LAN-Controller 150 and from there, this data is stored on a hard disk; on one exclusively used carrier frequency 71 DVB (digital video broadcast) stream data arrives, which is forwarded to a LAN-Controller 150 and from there to a graphics processor to be viewed immediately; on another

exclusively used carrier frequency DVB stream data of another TV-program arrives that is forwarded to a LAN- Controller 150 and from there stored on a hard disk to be viewed in the future.

In upstream direction, available capacities are used for providing e.g. for packet acknowledgment traffic and/or upload of subscriber's data.

The advantage of preserving separate data streams is e.g.

that additional processing for bonding and separating of the data packets is not needed. Therefore latencies and possible sources of error are smaller. Device for the wired sending and receipt of signals

Cable television network

Sender

1' Frequency modulator

Receiver

, Frequency demodulator

'

Identification unit

Arithmetic unit

Memory unit

Available frequency range

Frequency partial range

Frequency sub-range

Carrier frequency

Shared carrier frequency

Subscriber

Distributor

Server

0 Fibre optic ring

0 Media-switching server

0 Multiplexing unit

1 Demultiplexing unit, Aggregator unit

0 Connection unit

0 Diplexer

0 LAN-Controller

0 Identification of at least one frequency partial range or carrier frequency which is available, in respect of the other subscribers, exclusively to a subscriber for the transmission of signals;

0 Setting of the sender of the distributor and/or the receiver of the subscriber to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies; 20 Setting of the receiver of the distributor and/or the sender of the subscriber to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies;

30 Transmission of signals on the set carrier

frequencies ;

31 Sending of signals on the set carrier frequencies; 32 Receipt of signals on the set carrier frequencies; 40 Generation of an allocation of the frequency

partial ranges or carrier frequencies to the other subscribers ;

0' , Steps corresponding to steps 200, 210, 220, 230,10' , 231, 232 for the case of a shared carrier frequency 0' ,

0' ,

' ,232'

Claims

1. Method for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network (10) in an available frequency range (50) in particular of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz between a distributor (90) and one of n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) over at least one carrier frequency (70) lying in the available frequency range (50), wherein the distributor (90) and the

subscriber (80) each have a sender (20) and/or a receiver (30) and wherein the signals are digital signals and the transmission is packet-based, comprising the steps of

— identifying (200) at least one carrier frequency (70) within the available frequency range (50) which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1

subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of signals;

— setting (220) the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified carrier frequencies (70);

— transmitting (230) the signals by sending (231)

and/or receiving (232) on the set carrier frequencies (70);

— identifying (200') at least one shared carrier

frequency (71) within the available frequency range (50) which is available to all of the n subscribers (80) for the transmission of signals;

— setting (210') the sender (20) of the distributor

(90) and/or the receiver (30) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified shared carrier frequencies (71);

— setting (220') the receiver (30) of the distributor (90) and/or the sender (20) of the subscriber (80) to at least one of the identified shared carrier

frequencies (71);

— transmitting (230') the signals by sending (231') and/or receiving (232') on the set shared carrier frequencies (71).

Method according to claim 1, wherein

the receiver (30) and/or the sender (30) of the

subscriber (80) is set to multiple frequencies (70), which are available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers, exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of signals, and preferably to multiple frequencies (70) and one or more shared frequency (71).

Method according to one of the previous claims,

characterized in that the signals which are transmitted on an identical carrier frequency (70, 71) and/or signals which have at least partially overlapping signal

frequency spectra are separated from each other by a time-division multiplexing (TDMA) and/or a code-division multiplexing (CDMA) method.

Method according to one of the previous claims,

characterized in that

the identification (200) of the at least one carrier frequency (70, 71) takes place according to one or more different parameters and is carried out repeatedly.

Method according to one of the previous claims,

characterized in that

the method additionally comprises the following step: — generating (240) an allocation of at least a part of the available carrier frequencies (70) to the n

subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) according to one or more different

parameters .

Method according to claim 5,

characterized in that

the generation (240) of an allocation is carried out repeatedly;

Method according to claim 4 to 6

characterized in that a parameter is the changing load of the cable television network (10), a priority due to a subscriber or a payment, which is made for the use of the cable television network (10), a signal interference or noise present in the cable television network (10), the number of subscribers (80) that are requesting or

receiving signals destined to multiple subscribers (80) or a tag, which is applied to the signals that a

subscriber is requesting or sending and/or receiving.

Method according to the claims 5 to 7,

characterized in that

the identification (200) of the at least one carrier frequency (70) is a reading by the subscriber (80) of at least the part of the allocation concerning it alone.

Method according to the claims 5 to 8,

characterized in that

the distributor (90), preferably a server (91)

controlling several distributors, generates (240) the allocation.

10. Method according to the claims 5 to 9,

characterized in that

the distributor (90), preferably controlled by the server (91), sends the allocation as a signal, preferably in packet form, on a carrier frequency (70, 71) preferably within a frequency partial range (60) provided for the purpose, wherein in each case at least the part of the allocation concerning it alone is readable for each of the n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network ( 10 ) .

11. Method according to one of the previous claims,

characterized in that

a fibre optic ring (100) is used to connect the cable television network (10) to at least one media-switching server ( 110 ) .

12. Method according to one of the previous claims,

characterized in that

at least one, preferably all, of the n subscribers (80) connected to the cable television network (10) is, or are, identified one or more times via an identifier unique to each subscriber (80),

in particular a preferably encrypted, previously fixed and/or an assignable identifier which is preferably one, or a combination, of an identification number present in an electronic chip, a MAC address,

an IP address and/or identification number preferably dynamically or statically assigned by the distributor (90) or by the server (91) and

13. Device (1) for the wired transmission of signals over a cable television network (10) in the available frequency range (50) in particular of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz between a distributor (90) and one of n subscribers (80)

connected to the cable television network (10) over at least one carrier frequency (70) lying in the available frequency range (50), comprising

— a sender (20) with at least one frequency modulator

(21) and a receiver (30) with at least one frequency demodulator (31, 31'), wherein the sender (20) can be set via the frequency modulators (21, 21') present, and the receiver (30) via the frequency demodulators (31) present, to at least one carrier frequency (70) in particular in the range of from 5 MHz to 900 MHz,

- an identification apparatus (40) which is set up to identify at least one carrier frequency (70) which is available, in respect of the remaining n-1 subscribers (80), exclusively to the subscriber (80) for the transmission of the signals and set up to identify at least one shared carrier frequency (71) which is available to all of the n subscribers (80) for the transmission of signals.

14. Device according to claim 13,

characterized in that

the device (1) is connected to a fibre optic ring (100) and has a connection unit (130) which is set up to convert optically transmitted signals into digital and/or analogue signals.

15. Device according to claims 13 to 14, characterized in that

the device (1) has a unique identifier, in particular a preferably encrypted, previously fixed and/or an assignable identifier

which is preferably one, or a combination, of

an identification number present in an electronic chip,

a MAC address,

an IP address and/or identification number preferably dynamically or statically assigned by the

distributor (90) or by a server (91) and