SCTE 288 2024

Plug-in Cable Attenuator Performance Standard

Executive Summary

When operators purchase aftermarket accessories, their procurement departments seldom have the engineering abilities needed to qualify and or disqualify components based on performance. Standardization of the specification of these components will have a positive effect all the way through the supply chain, through the operators’ technical operations and on to the customer. Fewer outages and higher performing components will mean a higher quality of service for the customer with fewer truck rolls and lower call center volume for the operators.

Scope

This standard defines a common minimum specification of electrical performance and certain mechanical characteristics of plug-in attenuators used in broadband cable network nodes and amplifiers.

Benefits

Standardization of accessories will improve quality of service for the customer, maintain plant integrity for the operator, and will reduce supply chain problems from substandard components.

Intended Audience

This document is crucial for development engineers, corporate engineers, technical operations, financial operations, installers, and technicians.