DVB-T television and the Internet via one UTP cable

Low-voltage systems in office buildings often do not include TV antenna cables, but are usually fitted with structural cabling based on UTP cables. When some users want to connect televisions to watch DVB-T broadcasts, the lack of an RF distribution system may be a major obstacle (in many locations TV signals cannot be properly received using indoor antennas).

A unique solution to this problem is to use SIGNAL TV-LAN baluns for TV over UTP. The pair of the passive baluns can transmit analog/digital RF signals from an antenna placed in a suitable place via the existing UTP cable. The transmission is performed in parallel to the "normal" use of the cable for data transmission (LAN, Internet). The idea of using the Signal TV-LAN baluns is presented in the figure below.

Transmission of DVB-T and Ethernet signals over a single UTP cable with the use of R94200 baluns

Although the solution is based on point-to-point connection, it is possible to use multiple transmitter-receiver kits, even in combination with TV splitters and network switches. When the RF signal level after splitting is sufficient for further distribution, the signal can be sent over another UTP cable segment after a network switch, using additional pair of the baluns.

View of the Signal TV-LAN balun

Solutions based on the baluns are much more economical in comparison with deployment of additional systems based on coaxial cables or IPTV technology (the latter also requires extra network resources). They do not convert the original RF signals, only change the transmission medium.

Requirements for input signals in multiswitch systems

In the case of large multiswitch installation there have to be used many amplification stages, which increases the noise figure of such system. It directly translates into increase of BER. BER values above 10^-4 (in the outlet) will prevent the user from receiving satellite broadcasts (the receiver will not be able to restore the original signal). To ensure reliable and high quality decoding, the BER values should be at least about 10^-8 (in LNB outputs). Signals with low BER are ensured by use of appropriate dishes, e.g. 110 cm. It is very wise to use large dishes - the whole multiswich system needs only one set of dishes, being a small part of the total costs, but deciding on the quality of the input (and output) signals.

Professional protection of antenna system and receiving equipment

Even when the weather forecasts indicate a probability of thunderstorms, not many people think of the risk for their equipment nor take the simplest precautions like pulling out the antenna plug. In many cases some parts of the system cannot be easily disconnected, being placed in closed installation boxes, e.g. head ends, multiswitches or simply - mounted on the ceiling or high on the wall (modern flat panels).

The problems can be solved by application of well-proven surge protector (e.g. Signal). Using the device the installer demonstrates his professionalism and a real care for the customer's money - its price makes only a small fraction of the cost of possible damage caused by a storm. The device can be operated in the whole TV/SAT frequency range. It can take over surges up to 8000 A.