@ XenonMan - Thank you for trying to help.

Yes, the cable has the same termination on either end. As I had written in my original post (I think), both ends fit into the OSB-1, but it was a very insecure fit. ...and, yes, I know about the plug and little door.

@ EEman - DUH!!! What can I say?!?!

Having never used an optical cable before, I thought the little plastic "bulb" was part of the cable. I didn't realize until you told me that it is for protection only. Once I pulled it off, the cable snugly fit into jack on my old SSP. I assume it will fit everywhere else now.

I can't thank you both enough for your advice and for responding. I guess an old dog CAN learn new tricks.

Now I'll have to experiment with a direct optical connection between the OSB-1/TV and OSB-1/cable box versus the coax between cable box/OSB-1. Sounds like fun, and maybe I can learn even more. lol

Thank you again, guys.
~~