By William E. Evans And Jeffrey C. Rohne, Manitoba Telephone System
Early in 1978 the Manitoba Telephone System announced its intention to proceed with the construction of a bi-directional coaxial cable intercity transmission network for the initial purpose of delivering television and FM broadcast signals to newly licensed CATV operators in more than twenty communities throughout southern Manitoba. This facility would provide a multi-purpose, user-shared "electronic highway" for the transmission of television, radio, data and new broadband telecommunications services.
The first 28 mile trunk was activated in February 1978 with the mator 145 mile system from Winnipeg to Brandon placed in service on September 29. Performance test results using both frequency domain and baseband measurement techniques are presented along with operational experiences.