SCTE 293-09 2025

What is … RF?

Executive Summary

This document is one in a series of technical monographs providing a high-level overview of a given topic. Here, RF is discussed.

Scope

What we call RF has been an important part of cable networks dating back to the industry’s beginnings in the late 1940s. The “C” part of a hybrid fiber/coax (HFC) network uses radio frequency (RF) technology to distribute and transport signals. Wi-Fi® and other wireless technologies – which are based on the transmission of RF signals over-the-air – are part of cable’s service offering, too! This technical monograph covers some of the fundamentals of RF and the electromagnetic spectrum. References to resources that include more in-depth material are included in the bibliography.

Benefits

The material in this document can be used as part of technical training programs, a tutorial for individuals seeking a high-level understanding of RF, and/or a refresher for those who may have forgotten some of the fundamentals of the topic.

Intended Audience

The intended audience for this document includes technical personnel from installers to engineers. The material is also suitable for those new to the cable industry.