What is a hybrid fiber coaxial network - HFC and how does it work?

Have you ever wondered what a hybrid fiber coaxial network - HFC is and how it works? Well, today we will answer this question. Starting by saying that the truth is that the networks hybrids in coaxial fibers are quite common and there are many reasons for their use.

The differences between ADSL and fiber optic connections are quite marked, but other types of technology also come into play, such as the one we talked about earlier.



The network hybrid in coaxial fiber it is a type of network used in many parts of the world, which provides a balance of speed, efficiency and ease of maintenance, in the same way that costs are usually reduced when using this type of connection.


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What is a hybrid fiber coaxial network - HFC and how does it work?

When we talk about a Coaxial Fiber Hybrid Network, we are referring specifically to a type of network designed to use both systems in optical fiber and coaxial. In other words, this type of network uses both the optical fiber system and the classic coaxial cable.

The birth of this technology comes mainly because separate these technologies have some limitations, but together each one offers resolution to many common problems of the old networks.

It should be noted that these types of networks are responsive to use domestic or professional and they differ considerably from mobile networks and their different types. Hybrid coaxial fiber networks seek to be an alternative to other wired networking standards.

What is optical fiber?

As the name suggests, the optical fiber is responsible for light transmission from one point to another. This light contains encoded information, which will then be interpreted by a computer or device. It is a fairly common communication system today.




The advantage of this technology includes an exceptional data exchange rate. In any case, this type of technology is mainly applied to cover long distances, because it is difficult to apply in casa.

However, if you want to know more about this type of technology, then you need to know the different types and characteristics of optical fibers.

What is coaxial cable?

Coaxial cable emerged in the mid-30s and serves multiple purposes, including stand out energy exchange and also communications or data. Coaxial cable transmits the signal very efficiently, although it is not the best option for long distances.

Indeed, optical fiber is far superior in this regard, as it is capable of transmitting large amounts of data more efficiently. It is for this reason that coaxial cable is mainly used in environments where the distances are not that great.

As for the cabling, it is fair to point out that there are different types, so it is useful to know what FTTH is and the differences with the installation of HFCs that represent some of the most common types of coaxial or fiber optic cable.

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How does a hybrid fiber coaxial network work?

Interestingly, the operation of a hybrid coaxial fiber network, the fiber optic network is responsible for reaching a subscriber. That is, the space in which the connection will then be distributed to multiple clients. The connection in optical fiber it comes directly from the internet hub and ensures that the signal arrives efficiently.



On the other hand, the coaxial cable would be the connection that the client receives, as it is much easier to manage in short distance environments.


As you can imagine, the combination of both technologies has advantages, as the fiber optic signal is good for long distances. The coaxial cable is instead efficient for environments where the distances are not very great.

It should be noted that each hybrid coaxial fiber network has a so-called gateway. This means that we have found an optical transformer in charge of analyzing the data coming from the optical fiber. This data is then distributed through the coaxial signal.


While the capacity or bandwidth of the coaxial cable is not great, it is sufficient for non-professional environments such as the home. This type of technology is widely used around the world, as it delivers excellent speeds and unprecedented stability.

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