An architecture for the dynamic assignment of links in a multi-user communication system. The apparatus 100 is configured to output data to generate an EPG in which upcoming programs are shown as tiles with a uniform size, regardless of the duration of the program. A genotyping method is described that includes procedures implemented in software. Data in the agent is managed by a metric manager, and controller modules implement the desired control algorithms. The splice protector includes an ultra-violet light curable adhesive that provides a flexible support for the splice, and is at least half as flexible when cured over the splice as the first and second ribbons in bending about the widthwise axis.