Stupid, off topic question, but is there any place you know of online to read up on things like the Channel Plus? I've been dreaming for a long time of setting up an 'in-home' network where I've got my OTA channels as well as a few 'computer run' channels setup to pass through preexisting coax I have in my home. But have so little knowledge about the topic that I haven't been able to even craft a relevant Google query to start off from.
Actually your post is not that far off-topic, just a question that leads to a really warped work around to the problem of the root post.
As for a specific reply to your post: It can be done once you know what to look for. BUT, there are multiple items that must be considered as the ramifications from doing it improperly could lead to very hefty fines/bills from the FCC and/or your LCC (Local Cable Company). Setting up the system would not be to hard for myself (A licensed amateur radio operator and employee of a cable company) but may be quite a challenge for those without the specialized knowledge. So I will list all the warnings one should be aware of before naming the 'Device' that is the solution to the question.
The 'Device' has high potential to interfere with the signal of the LCC (Local Cable Company), degrading the signal to the subscribers in your neighborhood. Depending on how nice your LCC is, they may slap you with a fix-it bill. (My company has done this. Though, to repeat offenders) Luckily, this is the easiest to fix. Make sure you are not connected to the network of the LCC. If you do not have services with them, give them a call and ask for a total disconnect so as to prevent the interference. If you do still have ANY services with your LCC, you will have to call them and work with their technicians to prevent the interference. Though they will more than likely "fix" the problem by rendering your services unusable.
As soon as you turn on the 'Device' you become a Broadcaster. As a Broadcaster, the FCC can come after you. Especially because you will be working with frequencies that normally require a license to broadcast on. Don't worry too much about the FCC though. As long as your broadcasting is no higher than a predetermined power level, and does not cause any interference with anyone else, it is unlikely they will be coming. The problem is making sure that is the case. Made harder by the fact that you want to include an antenna in the system. I would suggest calling the local FCC office to have someone come out to perform measurements once the system is put together, but before you start using it.
As for what the 'Device' is, look for "RF Cable Inserter". Just remember; Even though anyone can buy and use the equipment. Not everyone should. Use of such equipment can make you liable if it is not done properly. Additionally I would suggest looking around the FCC website for rules and regulations. Unless you want to learn about setting up Radio Frequency transportation networks, or know someone to do it for you, this project may be too much for the standard home improvement tinkerer.
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Stupid, off topic question, but is there any place you know of online to read up on things like the Channel Plus? I've been dreaming for a long time of setting up an 'in-home' network where I've got my OTA channels as well as a few 'computer run' channels setup to pass through preexisting coax I have in my home. But have so little knowledge about the topic that I haven't been able to even craft a relevant Google query to start off from.
Actually your post is not that far off-topic, just a question that leads to a really warped work around to the problem of the root post.
As for a specific reply to your post: It can be done once you know what to look for. BUT, there are multiple items that must be considered as the ramifications from doing it improperly could lead to very hefty fines/bills from the FCC and/or your LCC (Local Cable Company). Setting up the system would not be to hard for myself (A licensed amateur radio operator and employee of a cable company) but may be quite a challenge for those without the specialized knowledge. So I will list all the warnings one should be aware of before naming the 'Device' that is the solution to the question.
The 'Device' has high potential to interfere with the signal of the LCC (Local Cable Company), degrading the signal to the subscribers in your neighborhood. Depending on how nice your LCC is, they may slap you with a fix-it bill. (My company has done this. Though, to repeat offenders) Luckily, this is the easiest to fix. Make sure you are not connected to the network of the LCC. If you do not have services with them, give them a call and ask for a total disconnect so as to prevent the interference. If you do still have ANY services with your LCC, you will have to call them and work with their technicians to prevent the interference. Though they will more than likely "fix" the problem by rendering your services unusable.
As soon as you turn on the 'Device' you become a Broadcaster. As a Broadcaster, the FCC can come after you. Especially because you will be working with frequencies that normally require a license to broadcast on. Don't worry too much about the FCC though. As long as your broadcasting is no higher than a predetermined power level, and does not cause any interference with anyone else, it is unlikely they will be coming. The problem is making sure that is the case. Made harder by the fact that you want to include an antenna in the system. I would suggest calling the local FCC office to have someone come out to perform measurements once the system is put together, but before you start using it.
As for what the 'Device' is, look for "RF Cable Inserter". Just remember; Even though anyone can buy and use the equipment. Not everyone should. Use of such equipment can make you liable if it is not done properly. Additionally I would suggest looking around the FCC website for rules and regulations. Unless you want to learn about setting up Radio Frequency transportation networks, or know someone to do it for you, this project may be too much for the standard home improvement tinkerer.