Cable television is a staple in many homes around the world. The history of this invention offers an interesting look at how a necessity turned into an essential amenity for families everywhere. 

The Early Days of Cable TV

Cable television was created in Pennsylvania in the 1940s. The goal was to improve the reception of television signals in remote areas, specifically in the valley around Mahanoy City, where the surrounding mountain range interfered with antenna signals. 

A local appliance salesman and repairman with the Pennsylvania Power & Light Company, John Walson, pioneered the development of Community Antenna Televisions (CATVs), which began as a utility pole with heavy-duty wiring at his appliance business. These devices were set on mountains and other high areas to boost signals to distant regions.

In the 1950s, these systems expanded. The ability to provide programming from hundreds of miles away took the technology from local to long-distance, increasing program options. By the early 1960s, more communications companies began investing in the concept of cable television and created systems for nearly a million subscribers.

Because of this expansion, local TV stations felt threatened, leading to the Federal Communications Commissions (FCC) restrictions on cable systems. This froze development until 1972, when the government modified the restrictions. In the same year, the country’s first paid TV network, Home Box Office (HBO), was launched.

The Rise of Cable in the 80s & Beyond

Cable TV saw a boom in the 80s. The 1984 Cable Act provided a better framework for the industry that led to investments and better programming. Between 1984 and 1992, more than $15 billion was invested in wiring and program development.

By the end of the decade, 53 million homes were cable subscribers. In the late 90s, the industry began developing an upgrade that incorporated fiber optics and coaxial cables to create broadband networks that offered better quality and speed. This innovation eventually led to high-speed internet.

Now, cable TV includes innovations like video-on-demand, interactive features, video recording, rewinding, and pausing.

For quality cable television in the Pine Grove, CA, area, Volcano Communications Group is the top choice. Since 1903, this company has evolved to become a reliable communications company for all home needs. This cable provider offers a variety of packages to suit your interests, and their bundle pricing makes their services perfect for every budget. Call (209) 296-7502 for more information, or visit them online to review their TV packages.