IITA 1996 Annual Report
Reaching NASA From Home - Internet Access Via Cable TV

http://192.86.20.177/

Objective

To demonstrate a Cable Area Network (CableNet) linking households within the same CableTV service area. Also, those networked households will be connected to the rest of the world via the global computer network, the Internet.

Approach

Reuse existing cable TV wiring into the home to achieve higher bandwidths at lower cost than available through alternative means.

Significance

Cable systems offer the potential for much higher communication data rates into homes and schools than is possible through use of current telephone network lines into the home.

Plans

This project expires in December 1996.

Point of Contact

Frank LoPinto
Interactive Archives, Inc.
Annapolis, MD 21401
lopinto@niccolo.gsfc.nasa.gov
Phone: 410-224-8914

Accomplishments

Proved transmission concept. Discovered how to use ordinary television signal for high speed data. Our signal can be transmitted wherever and however TV signals are broadcast.

Designed protocol. Modified and simplified Ethernet protocol so that it works on a county-wide network. Provides interface between Internet and "CableNet" addressing domains.

Built cable modem. Designed circuit boards and integrated hardware and software to produce Set Top Box incorporating cable modem and network router technology.

Operated Service. Provided service to Rolling Knolls Elementary School in Annapolis, Maryland using channels donated by Jones Intercable.

Worked with children. Introduced children of all grades and backgrounds to the Web. Held regular teaching sessions using Web content to augment class study projects.

Simplified concept. Developed a service concept - The Digital Channel - that could be used in elementary schools and in homes without personal computers and that can be used without changing CATV systems or adding telephone lines.

Found Interested Investors. We are actively engaged in discussions with investment groups that have the financial resources to implement The Digital Channel on a global scale.