The L5 repeatered line is presented from the viewpoint of a distributed equalization process. Reliable transmission of 10,800 circuits over 4000 miles of coaxial cable with minimum noise is the sole objective of this process. The strategy is to provide equalization in cause‐associated increments that place specific bounds on signal‐level excursions, thereby insuring an ultralinear, low‐noise predictable transmission medium. The individual causes of signal misalignment, both static and dynamic, are examined and the realization of the strategy, which forms a hierarchy of equalizers, is described.