Forward path attenuator thingy

[IAmATeaf]

Anybody know what exactly a forward path attenuator does? I've recently purchased an XTrend ET10000 sat/cable combo box and only have the single feed in the lounge which is connected to my cable modem/router which has a 10dB forward path attenuator connected inline at the back.

In order to feed the ET10000 I've split the cable using a virgin supplied splitter but the net result is that although the ET10000 then gets signal the overall speed of the modem/router drops unless I remove the 10dB forward path attenuator but obviously when I remove it the downstream power levels shoot up. Now I've found an old 3dB attenuator and putting it inline brings the power levels down to a reasonable level but I don't know if there's something special about a forward path attenuator as opposed to just an attenuator.

As the splitter effectively halves the signal I think a 3dB forward path attenuator is what I need as before without the splitter and with the 10dB the downstream power levels were around 1dBmv. Can I just go up to a Virginmedia person, there's a green box at the side of my house so there's always somebody there and ponce one off him/her or are these things strictly controlled.

Sorry for the long post and maybe I'm over complicating or worrying over it for no reason.

 

[spud1966]

they reduce signal strength by rated amount....

you can get them on fleebay m8

 

[IAmATeaf]

Thanks, no idea why I didn't think of checking ebay, must be getting old

 

[grim1]

If in a hurry you can also buy from your local Maplin store. Might cost a bit more but I've done that before rather than wait on delivery. Depends on the urgency of your project.

 

[rawsy]

I'm pretty sure I may have one kicking about if your in Leeds or I could post you one mate.

Found one in my cellar.

 

[rawsy]

In the post mate just stick a quid in a cancer charity box to cover postage.

Happy attenuating lol

 

[Sladedestiny]

Pretty easy to come by and most Ariel /Satellite suppliers sell them.