FREQUENCY TRANSLATION APPARATUS

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an architecture and protocol which enables signal communications between a frequency translation module (20) and a plurality of decoders (60) within a dwelling.SOLUTION: According to an exemplary embodiment, the frequency translation module (20) includes a plurality of inputs (22) operative to receive a plurality of bands of television signals. A plurality of tuners (24) are connected to the inputs (22). The tuners (24) convert the bands of television signals to a plurality of intermediate frequencies. A controller (34) is operative to receive request commands for the bands of television signals from the decoders (60). Each of the decoders (60) transmits one of the request commands to the frequency translation module (20) during a separate time slot.