CABLE TV (CATV)

A television distribution method in which signals from distant stations are received, amplified, and then transmitted by (coaxial or fiber) cable or microwave links to users. Note 1: CATV originated in areas where good reception of direct broadcast TV was not possible. Now CATV also consists of a cable distribution system to large metropolitan areas in competition with direct broadcasting. Note 2: The abbreviation CATV originally meant "community antenna television. " However, CATV is now usually understood to mean cable TV.