New developments in cable TV networks: data over cable services and PacketCable

Cable television networks today are seeing many positive industry advancements. This paper profiles some of the newest technologies and changes that we can expect to see in cable television networks over the upcoming years. Two major advancements taking place are the DOCSIS platform and PacketCable specification. Residential cable subscribers are being offered more and more services everyday and can expect much more to follow. Throughout this paper you will be presented with current work and future advancements in cable networks focusing primarily on DOCSIS and PacketCable. You will also see how these new services and products are being implemented by one of Canada's largest cable television providers, Rogers Cable Communications Inc. By the end of this paper you will know what is currently offered on cable networks, how Rogers has implemented their network, and what you can expect from Rogers and other cable providers in the near future.