Patent ID: 7099308

Claim:
A method for receiving assignment information specifying at least one RF channel to an RF modem, the method comprising the steps performed in the RF modem of: listening to an RF medium on a cable data network to receive identification information, wherein the RF modem is connected to the RF medium that is at least part of a cable data network between the RF modem and a head end, and wherein at least a portion of the identification information is configured to indicate a position on the RF medium that the RF modem is connected; forming an offer data packet based at least upon the identification information; transmitting the offer data packet from the RF modem towards the head end; subsequent to transmitting the offer data packet, receiving the assignment information specifying the at least one RF channel; tuning at least one tuner in the RF modem to the at least one RF channel; and utilizing the at least one RF channel in at least one direction of communication over the RF medium between the RF modem and the head end.