An optical distribution node for an hybrid fiber/coax network is provided. The optical distribution node includes a laser transmitter coupleable to a fiber optic link that transmits upstream, digital data to a head end of the network. The node also includes a data concentrator coupled to provide the upstream, digital data to the laser. For at least one coaxial cable link of the network coupleable to the optical distribution node, the node also includes a frequency translator that receives the upstream, digital data modulated on a first carrier frequency and retransmits the upstream, digital data to the plurality of modems for collision detection. The node also includes a data interface coupled between the at least one coaxial cable link and the data concentrator that determines whether the upstream data is valid.