The method to utilizing a digital CATV (QAM) signal is to employ a digital demodulator and modulator in series. An agile device can be set up to receive a digital CATV (clear QAM) channel input signal. Its function is to extract the audio and video information from the digital carrier and provide separate analog audio and video output signals. These separate audio and video feeds, also called baseband audio and video, are then applied to a modulator. It is the job of the modulator to take the audio and video and make them in to a cable TV channel that can be viewed by the existing analog televisions

This channel can then be combined with other channels that have been created at the property. It is common practice to re-modulate onto unused VHF or CATV channels to minimize distribution losses and make it easier to construct and manage the system. When the new channel is combined with other channels in the facility it must be done at the correct level so that the signals do not interfere with each other.

The keys to success in this system are making sure that the demodulators have enough input signal to function correctly and making sure that the modulator is adjusted correctly for proper output level.