Voice and Data on a CATV Network

A technique for transmitting voice and data on a conventional subsplit CATV network is described. The technique uses a variation on the carrier sense multiple access/collision detection protocol used in local area networks. A variation on this protocol, called movable slot TDM allows periodic voice Sources to share this network without distorting the voice signal. A scheme for sharing frequency spectrum and space is outlined that removes the distance and transmission rate constraints associated with such networks. A transmission strategy is described which allows these protocols to be used on a subsplit CATV system. The system is thus a candidate for local/metropolitan area networks Which support digital voice and data services along with analog (mostly one-way) video.