Final answer:
The receiver/decoder is the piece of equipment necessary for each signal in the headend because the signals are usually encrypted before delivery to the broadband cable system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The piece of equipment that is housed in the headend and is necessary for each signal because the signals are usually encrypted before they are delivered to the broadband cable system is the Receiver/Decoder.
The receiver/decoder is responsible for decrypting the encrypted signals so that they can be properly processed and displayed on the user's device. It receives the encrypted signal and then decodes it, making it accessible for viewing.