Conrad L. Young’s Wired Broadband and Related Industry Glossary of Terms with Acronyms As of 15 February 2012 Open Access This document is distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial License which permits any noncommercial
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Earth British terminology for zero-reference ground. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Earth Station A complete satellite receiving or transmitting station including the antenna, electronics and all associated equipment necessary to receive or transmit satellite signals. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EAS Emergency Alert System Easement The right to use land for a specific purpose, such as laying cable. EBITA Earnings before interest, taxes and amortization. Similar to EBITDA, but is reduced to give effect to periodic depreciation expenses. EBITDA Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Also known as operating cash flow by many cable television operators. A financial and liquidity measure (proxy for cash flow) for companies with significant fixed investment or acquisition expenses that do not generally report positive net earnings. ECB Electronic Code Book ECM Entitlement Control Message ECN Engineering Change Notice ECO Engineering Change Order E-Commerce Electronic Commerce Echo
Eclipse When a satellite passes through the line between the earth and the sun or the earth and the moon. (Satnews) Eclipse Protected Refers to a transponder that can remain powered during the period of an eclipse. (Satnews) eCM An eCM is an embedded Cable Modem, i.e., one that has been enhanced with the features of eDOCSIS™ specification. ECPA Electronic Communication Privacy Act ECR Engineering Change Request EDFA Erbium Doped Fiber Amplifier; Optical fibers doped with the rare earth element, erbium, which can amplify light in the 1550 nm region when pumped by an external light source. The EDFA is a passive optical device employed to boost the transmitted optical power within HFC networks and PONs when the output from a laser or optical transmitter is insufficient for link budget or link reach to the subscriber or end destination. Typically, EDFAs are employed with output directly to a passive optical splitter to reduce the impact from optical fiber impairments such as SBS and Rayleigh scattering. (FiberOpticsInfo) 
Diagram of EDFA Employed in a Fiber Optic Telecommunications Network, courtesy of Fiber Optic Info, http://www.fiber-optics.info/fiber_optic_glossary/e Edge A place that varies widely depending on where one stands (literally and figuratively), but generally recognized as being located after the point of signal collection, and before the eyeball. At the edge, one thing hands off to another thing -- like an optical signal to a radio frequency, or an outside broadband network to an inside broadband network, or something wired to something wireless. If you're a network architect, the "edge" of a cable network is generally the place where optics hand off to RF, such as at a distribution hub. Translation: About a mile north of the "last mile." The devices therein are thus called "edge devices." Maybe you've heard of an "edge QAM," for instance, which is the spot in a cable broadband network where IP traffic, running over gigabit Ethernet, transfers onto the traditional RF network toward homes. If you're a set-top aficionado, the "edge" is the output of that box. Usage: In general, technological innovation moves the "edge" of the network closer to customers over time. Edge of Coverage Limit of a satellite's defined service area. In many cases, the EOC is defined as being 3 dB down from the signal level at beam center. However, reception may still be possible beyond the -3dB point. (Satnews) Edge-Emitting Diode An LED that emits light from its edge, producing more directional output than surface-emitting LED’s that emit from their top surface. (FiberOpticsInfo) 
Edge-Emitting Diode Diagrams, courtesy of Fiber Optics Info, http://www.fiber-optics.info/fiber_optic_glossary/e Edge QAM edge Quadrature Amplitude Modulator (eQAM); a device that accepts an optical input carrying digital data, voice, and video, converts the optical signals to radio frequency (RF), modulates the RF employing various forms of quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM), and transmits the RF downstream (DS) to subscribers. eQAM modulators have multiple Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) data inputs. At a minimum, they should have four GigE inputs. (Carrier-class systems may have multiple 10 GigE inputs). Why four minimum? Typically eQAM modulators will be able to generate a minimum of 48 QAM channels. At 256 QAM, video channels can transport about 37 Mbps of video data. So 48 * 37 Mbps = 1.776 Gbps, which is more data than one GigE port can handle. So right away, we need two ports to support all of the data we may be feeding the device. The requirement for redundancy adds one port each to the two already required, bringing the total to four. The actual content that you would send to an eQAM over the GigE or 10GE interface would generally be framed in an MPEG-2 transport stream (TS). A function of the eQAM is to support both Single Program Transport Stream (SPTS) and Multiple Program Transport Streams (MPTS). Additionally, the eQAM can support unicast video (VoD), multicast video (Switched Digital Video), and M-CMTS (DOCSIS® framing in the MPEG-2 TS). The term “universal” eQAM is derived from its ability to “transport” three distinct forms of modern cable operator content (i.e., unicast VoD, multicast SDV, and DOCSIS® framing). The eQAM can also re-stamp PCR timestamps for de-jitter processing, which helps reduce network impairments. It can also support various levels of video compression, such as MPEG-4 and new standards that are emerging. From an IT infrastructure perspective, it can very quickly be seen the power an eQAM can have on network efficiencies. (Volpe) 
Photo courtesy of Cisco Systems, “Cisco RF Gateway 10 Universal Edge QAM” data sheet c78-514538, 08Apr09 
Simplified Diagram of Cable HE/Hub Employing Universal Edge QAM, courtesy of Cisco Systems, “Cisco RF Gateway 10 Universal Edge QAM” data sheet c78-514538, 08Apr09 eDOCSIS™ Embedded Data-Over-Cable Service Interface Specification EDTV Enhanced Definition Television Education Channel FCC rules require cable systems in the top 100 markets to set aside one channel for educational uses, to be available without cost for the “developmental period.” The developmental period of a cable television system runs for five years from the time that subscriber service began, or five years after the completion of the basic trunk line. Educational Television Station (ETV) A non-commercial television station primarily devoted to educational broadcasting. E-DVA embedded Digital Voice Adaptor. An embedded DVA is a DOCSIS® cable modem (CM) integrated with a PacketCable™ DVA, a type of user equipment (UE). EE Execution Engine Effective Area The area of a single-mode fiber (SMF) that carries the light. (FiberOpticsInfo) 
Effective Area Diagram courtesy of Fiber Optics Info, http://www.fiber-optics.info/fiber_optic_glossary/e Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) A measure of the signal strength that a satellite transmits towards the earth. The EIRP is highest at the center of the beam and decreases away from this boresight. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EFM Ethernet in the First Mile; using Ethernet to provide connectivity from the customer to the carrier. See 802.3ah. (Encyclopedia, Your Dictionary) EGA Enhanced Graphics Adapter; a medium-resolution color standard for computer monitors. (FiberOpticsInfo) Egress A condition often called “signal leakage” in which signals carried by the distribution system radiate into the air. (Linear LLC) Egress Interference An undesired leakage of radiation from a cable or other closed circuit system. (Channel Vision) EHS Extra high strength; refers to breaking strength of strand. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EIA Electronic Industries Association; An organization that sets video and audio standards. (FiberOpticsInfo) http://www.eia.org/
Electronic Industry Alliance EINC Equivalent Input Noise Current; The current of an ideal current source (i.e., one having infinite internal impedance) in parallel with the input terminals of the device that represents the part of the internally generated noise that can properly be represented by a current source. NOTE: In the definition, the equivalent input noise voltage, which would be needed for a complete and precise description of the device noise, is neglected. If the external source impedance is infinite, the noise current represents the total noise. References: JESD77-B, 2/00 and RS-311-A, 11/81. EIRP Effective Isotropic Radiated Power. A measure of the signal strength that a satellite transmits towards the earth. The EIRP is highest at the center of the beam and decreases away from this boresight. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EKTS Electronic Key Telephone Service EL/AZ Mount An elevation over azimuth mounting structure used to support a satellite antenna. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Electric Field A field of force surrounding a charged body or associated with a fluctuating magnetic field, with which charged particles interact. (TETRA) Electromagnetic Referring to the combined electric and magnetic fields caused by electron motion through conductors. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Caused when magnetic force lines generated by radio waves, electrical current in other phone lines, and events in outer space, like sun-spots, intersect with a telephone wire, generating a slight variation in the electrical current that we hear as “static.” Magnetic interference is the major obstacle to higher modem speeds because they change the very precisely modulated analog signal modems use to transmit and receive data. Today's 28.8 Kbps “V.34” modems, for example, usually have to “fall back” to lower speeds of 21.6 to 24 Kbps due to EM interference. Electromagnetic Pulse A burst of electromagnetic radiation that creates electric and magnetic fields that may couple with electrical/electronic systems to produce damaging current and voltage surges. (FiberOpticsInfo) Electromagnetic Radiation Radiation made up of oscillating electric and magnetic fields and propagated with the speed of light. Includes gamma radiation, X-rays, ultraviolet, visible, and infrared radiation, and radar and radio waves. (FiberOpticsInfo) Electromagnetic Spectrum A continuous range of frequencies of electromagnetic radiation (i.e., oscillating electrical and magnetic energy which can travel through space). Within the spectrum, waves have some specified common characteristics; the TV broadcast spectrum, for instance, ranges from 45 to 890 MHz. See also Frequency. 
Electromagnetic Spectrum courtesy of Fiber Optics Info, http://www.fiber-optics.info/fiber_optic_glossary/e Electromagnetic Waves Electromagnetic waves are emitted by many natural and man-made sources and play a very important part in our lives. Electromagnetic waves are used to transmit and receive signals from mobiles phones and their base stations. The type of electromagnetic waves mobile phones use are called radio frequency (RF) waves. (TETRA) Electron Volt A measure of the energy gained by an electron falling through an electric field produced by one volt. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Electronic Describing devices which depend upon the flow of electrons in vacuum or in semiconductors, such as electron tubes, transistors, etc. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Electronic Commerce (E-Commerce) Used to describe commerce that occurs electronically over the Internet. Electronic Industries Association (EIA) A voluntary body of manufacturers which, among other activities, prepares and publishes standards. Electronic Industry Alliance (EIA) An industry association accredited by ANSI (American National Standards Institute) to develop standards in the areas of electronic components, consumer electronics, electronic information and telecommunications. Electronic Key Telephone Service (EKTS) EKTS features allow a single ISDN SPID or B channel to support multiple directory numbers. Electronic Program Guide (EPG) An electronic program guide is an application that displays television program information, including program name, start time, and duration. ELED Edge-emitting Light Emitting Diode Element The portion of an off-air antenna that either receives or transmits UHF or VHF broadcast television signals. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Element Management System (EMS) An element management system (EMS) manages one or more of a specific type of telecommunications network element (NE); it is a second layer of management in the telecommunications management network (TMN) hierarchy. Elementary Stream (ES) An elementary stream is a generic term for one of the coded video, coded audio, or other coded bit streams. One elementary stream is carried in a sequence of PES packets with one and only one stream ID. Elevation Angle The vertical angle measured from the horizon up to a targeted satellite. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Ellipticity Describes the fact that the core or cladding may be elliptical rather than circular. (FiberOpticsInfo) 
Ellipticity Diagram courtesy of Fiber Optics Info, http://www.fiber-optics.info/fiber_optic_glossary/e EM Electromagnetic The electronic exchange of messages and files between computers on a network, e-mail is the abbreviated form of electronic mail. An e-mail client is usually integrated with popular browsers. Embedded Subscriber Media Gateway (E-SMG) A subscriber media gateway (SMG) with the distinct property that the physical node within the SMG also contains a direct media access control (MAC) layer interface to a DOCSIS® access network. The only significant functional difference between an E-SMG and a SMG is that the media signaling and streaming function MAY be capable of directly accessing MAC layer services (traffic management, polling-heartbeats, and authentication functions). Embedded-Client A synonym for, and equivalent with, “Embedded Subscriber Media Gateway.” EMC Electromagnetic Compatibility Emergency Alert System (EAS) The US federal system for alerting the public to emergencies. EAS is a digital upgrade to the old Emergency Broadcasting System. EMI Electromagnetic Interference Emitter The source of optical power. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EML Electro-absorptive (EA) Modulated Laser EMM Entitlement Management Message EMP Electromagnetic Pulse EMR Electromagnetic Radiation EMS Element Management System EMTA Embedded Multimedia Terminal Adapter; also known as an eMTA or E-MTA. An EMTA is a device that combines a DOCSIS® cable modem (CM) and analog telephone adapter. The cable modem provides the data interface, and the telephone adapter provides the voice over IP (VoIP) interface for one or more analog telephones. The terminal adapter provides the conversion between analog voice signals and IP packets delivers dial tone and manages the call setup. (PCmag) EN European Norms Encapsulation Encasing a splice or closure in a protective material to make it watertight. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Encipherment A method used to translate plaintext into ciphertext. Encoder Any device which modifies information into the desired pattern or form for a specific method of transmission. (Arris Glossary of Terms) Encryption A form of encoding transmitted data for security purposes. It normally requires the decryption “key” to decipher the transmission upon receipt. The level of security is dependent on the complexity of the key used. A method used to translate plaintext into ciphertext. Encryption Key The key used in a cryptographic algorithm to translate the plaintext to ciphertext. End Angle Loss The signal attenuation that results from an angle cut in the end of the fiber cable. When an optical fiber is cut on an angle the direction of light rays is changed as they exit the fiber. Some of the redirected rays that travel from the end of one fiber do not fall into the acceptance angle of the other fiber resulting in signal loss. The diagram below shows how a fiber cut on an end angle can result in connector insertion loss. This diagram shows a connection of two fibers where one fiber is cut at an angle. Because some of the light rays that exit the fiber with the cut angle are redirected, some of the light rays from the angled fiber cannot be coupled into the other fiber resulting in some loss of optical signal level. 
End Angle Loss Diagram courtesy of Optical Dictionary dot com, http://www.opticaldictionary.com/Optical_Dictionary_Connector_Loss_Definition.html End Gap Loss (Lateral Separation) The signal attenuation that results from an excessive amount of space between optical fibers in an optical connector. Because the optical fiber gap is large, some of the rays that travel from the end of one fiber extend beyond the numerical aperture acceptance angle of the other fiber. End gap is also called lateral separation or lateral misalignment. The diagram below shows how an excessive gap between fibers in an optical connector can result in connector insertion loss. This diagram shows two fibers that have an excessive gap between them. Because of the excessive gap, some of the light rays from one fiber fall outside the numerical aperture (NA) acceptance angle of the other fiber resulting in some loss of optical signal level. (Optical Dictionary) 
End Gap Loss Diagram courtesy of Optical Dictionary dot com, http://www.opticaldictionary.com/Optical_Dictionary_Connector_Loss_Definition.html Endoscope A fiber optic bundle used for imaging and viewing inside the human body. (FiberOpticsInfo) Endpoint A Terminal, Gateway, or Multipoint Conference Unit. End User A human being, organization or telecommunications system that accesses the network in order to communicate via the services provided by the network. Also known as customer. Energy Dispersal A low-frequency waveform combined with the baseband signal prior to modulation, to spread the FM signal's peak. (Satnews) Engineering Change Notice (ECN) The final step in the procedure to change specifications. An ECN is officially considered to be part of the specification that it modifies. Engineering Change Order (ECO) The second step in the procedure to change specifications. CableLabs posts ECOs to Web site EC table and ECO page (with indication of ECO Comment Deadline). CableLabs issues ECO announcement to an Announcement mail list and working group mail lists (with indication of ECO Comment Deadline). DOCSIS®, CableHome, OpenCable and PacketCable all utilize a similar process. Engineering Change Request (ECR) The first step in the procedure to change specifications. CableLabs issues ECR number, posts to Web site EC table and ECR page. CableLabs sends ECR to subject area working group mail list (and author). DOCSIS, CableHome, OpenCable and PacketCable all utilize a similar process. Enhanced TV Binary Interchange Format (EBIF) A multimedia content format that enables interactive applications on the cable system. The primary purpose of the EBIF content format is to represent an optimized collection of widget and byte code specifications that define one or more multimedia pages, similar to web pages, but specialized for use within an enhanced television or interactive television system. EBIF may be downloaded to tens of millions of digital set tops that already have been deployed, thereby enabling fast to market delivery of interactive services. Entry Body Main body of the connector containing a 5/8-24 entry port. The entry body contains the terminal, insulator, closing collar and radiation sleeve as one unit with no loose parts. Made of a high corrosion resistant aluminum alloy. (Arris Glossary of Terms) EOL End of Life of a satellite. (Satnews) EOM Electro-Optic Modulator (EOM) (or electrooptic modulator); a device which can be used for controlling the power, phase or polarization of a laser beam with an electrical control signal. It typically contains one or two Pockels cells, and possibly additional optical elements such as polarizers. Different types of Pockels cells are shown in Figure below and are described more in detail in the article on Pockels cells. The principle of operation is based on the linear electro-optic effect (also called the Pockels effect), i.e., the modification of the refractive index of a nonlinear crystal by an electric field in proportion to the field strength. Frequently used nonlinear crystal materials for EOMs are potassium di-deuterium phosphate (KD*P = DKDP), potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP), beta-barium borate (BBO) (the latter for higher average powers and/or higher switching frequencies), also lithium niobate (LiNbO3), lithium tantalate (LiTaO3) and ammonium dihydrogen phosphate (NH4H2PO4, ADP). In addition to these inorganic electro-optic materials, there are also special polymers for modulators. 
Pockels cells of various types The voltage required for inducing a phase change of π is called the half-wave voltage (Vπ), also known as “V sub Pie”. For a Pockels cell, it is usually hundreds or even thousands of volts, so that a high-voltage amplifier is required. Suitable electronic circuits can switch such large voltages within a few nanoseconds, allowing the use of EOMs as fast optical switches. In other cases, a modulation with smaller voltages is sufficient, e.g. when only a small amplitude or phase modulation is required. Download 2.22 Mb. Share with your friends:
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