Cable television was developed in the late 1940's for communities unable to receive TV signals because of terrain or distance from TV stations. Cable television system operators located antennas in areas with good reception, picked up broadcast station signals and then distributed them to subscribers for a fee.

In 1950, cable television systems operated in only 70 communities in the United States. These systems served 14,000 homes. By October 1998 there were more than 10,700 systems serving more than 65 million subscribers in more than 32,000 communities. Cable television systems are operating in every state of the United States and in many other countries.

Most cable systems are technically capable of offering between 36 and 60 channels. Channel capacity in the industry has increased dramatically in recent years; some systems now offer in excess of 100 channels. Most cable subscribers receive service from a system offering more than 54 channels.

The channel capacity of a cable system makes it possible for a cable television system operator to provide many services. In addition to over-the-air television broadcast signals, most systems also offer diverse program services. Within the past few years, some cable systems have begun offering a full-range of telecommunications services.

Some cable operators also create their own local programming and provide access channels for public and institutional uses. They also provide leased access channels for "rent" to those wishing to show specific programs. Electronic banking, shopping, utility meter reading, and home security are some of the home services that are possible using the two-way transmission capabilities of cable television systems.

Entering approximately 60% of North American households, cable television is a mature industry. In looking to expand its markets, cable operators are beginning to provide services like Internet access to the home at performance levels previously reserved only for the largest organizations -- all at very affordable rates. This article briefly discusses the CATV infrastructure, how it is being upgraded to accommodate interactive communication services, and chronicles a current implementation and future programs that customers are likely to see.