BDS Power Systems and Standby Powering

Question 1

What is the typical AC voltage range used to power active components in an HFC outside plant?

Accepted Answer

60-90V AC

Answer

HFC outside plant equipment is powered by 60V or 90V AC delivered through the coaxial cable by power supplies, enabling remote powering of amplifiers and nodes.

Question 2

What is the primary function of a power inserter in an HFC network?

Accepted Answer

To couple AC power onto the coaxial cable without disrupting the RF signal path

Answer

A power inserter couples AC plant voltage onto the coaxial cable while simultaneously passing RF signals, allowing remote powering of active equipment.

Question 3

What type of battery is most commonly used in cable plant standby power supplies?

Accepted Answer

Valve-regulated lead-acid (VRLA)

Answer

VRLA batteries are the cable industry standard for standby power due to their sealed, maintenance-free design and reliable performance in outdoor enclosures.

Question 4

In the cable industry, what is the correct term for a power supply that delivers AC voltage to the plant while also providing battery backup during utility outages?

Accepted Answer

Standby power supply (SPS)

Answer

A standby power supply (SPS) is the standard cable industry term for a unit that converts utility AC to plant voltage and manages battery backup for service continuity during outages.

Question 5

What is the purpose of a transfer switch in a cable plant standby power supply?

Accepted Answer

To automatically switch between utility power and battery backup during an outage

Answer

A transfer switch detects utility power failure and automatically switches the plant load to battery power, maintaining service continuity during outages.

BDS - Broadband Distribution Specialist Practice Test

BDS - Broadband Distribution Specialist Practice Test

BDS Power Systems and Standby Powering