Final answer:
Cable programming can be local, national, or network-based. Local stations that broadcast national network programming are called affiliates. Cable networks specialize in different types of programming and often operate across the nation without local affiliates.
Step-by-step explanation:
Cable programming can be local, national, or network-based. Local stations that broadcast national network programming are called affiliates. Cable stations directly transmit programming to a local cable company hub, which then distributes the signals to homes through coaxial or fiber optic cables. Cable networks specialize in different types of programming and often operate across the nation without local affiliates.