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PDI Mini Tap

A few months ago I had trouble with my FiOS TV where I was only receiving video on the STB's and not data. Additionally, the modem wasn't receiving data either. I called Verizon; a tech was sent out -- the tech said the problem was the splitter. The splitter was changed and after he changed the splitter he put a device called a mini tap where the coaxial drop for the modem is. At the time the tech told me he put it there as the data connection doesn't need that strong of a signal hence the need for a tap to lower the signal output for the modem. Recently I removed the tap when I was changing which coaxial lines were running into the FiOS splitter. After unplugging the tap I didn't notice a difference. So I wanted to know if anyone has a more through explanation of what the tap does. And if it's necessary.

Comments

Anthony_VZ

I am not sure what you are referring to. It is not needed for the data communication to the boxes. It sounds like its a signal modulator to increase or decrease the signal going through it.

Keyboards

Actually, I think what the OP is referring to is an RF tap. One output has virtually no attenuation (fractional dB) and acts as a "pass thru" while the other can have attenuation varying from 3 dB to 20 or 40 dB (depending on the model). This would be used where one leg needs a less strong signal (the attenuated output) while still providing the "full" signal to the other leg.

As to why the installer would have used it I have no idea unless he was having signal strngth issues of either too much for the router or too littel for the rest the network.

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