FREQUENCY TRANSLATION APPARATUS

An architecture and protocol enables signal communications between a frequency translation module and a plurality of decoders within a dwelling. According to an exemplary embodiment, the frequency translation module includes a plurality of inputs operative to receive a plurality of bands of television signals. A plurality of tuners is connected to the inputs. The tuners convert the bands of television signals to a plurality of intermediate frequencies. A controller is operative to receive request commands for the bands of television signals from the decoders. Each of the decoders transmits one of the request commands to the frequency translation module during a separate time slot.