What is Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC)?

Hybrid Fiber Coax (HFC) is defined as a broadband connectivity technology that combines both fiber-optic and coaxial cable. This approach leverages the advantages of fiber-optic technology, which supports high-speed data transmission over long distances, with the practicality of coaxial cables, which are typically used in local distribution.

In an HFC network, fiber-optic cables carry data over long distances to neighborhood nodes, while coaxial cables are utilized to connect individual homes and businesses from those nodes. This combination allows for efficient and high-capacity data transmission, making HFC a common architecture for cable television and broadband services.

In contrast, other options describe different technologies or standards that do not accurately represent HFC. Option A incorrectly states that HFC relies solely on fiber-optic cables. Option C pertains to a standard for wireless communication, which is irrelevant to the HFC structure. Option D speaks to coaxial cable's application in digital television, but does not encompass the hybrid nature of the HFC architecture that combines both types of cables. Thus, the definition of HFC as a system that mixes fiber-optic and coaxial technology accurately captures its operational principle and practical implementation in the field of broadband communication.