Satellite converter (Description)

Satellite converter

Satellite converter - it is the receiver that combines the signal preamplifier LNA (Low-Noise Amplifier), received from the satellite, and a step-down converter (Downconverter), also known as a local oscillator (stabilized source of high frequency, a sinusoidal signal), which serves to convert the frequency of the electromagnetic wave Ku or C-band into an intermediate frequency.



Converter is one of the main components of a satellite receiving antenna. From its technical parameters and performance characteristics depend largely on the possibility of receiving the entire unit as a whole. Technical parameters characterize the converter from the point of view of the performance of the main functions of the conversion of microwave signals broadcast satellite (Ku-band - a frequency range 10.7-12.75 GHz band, C-band - 3.400-4.200 GHz).

Universal Satellite converter accepts fully the whole Ku-band. In modern converters of this type ranges are switched by a tone signal - 22 kHz. The main difference between a universal converter - the universality of the signals that drive the switching ranges and polarization. These signals are transmitted over a single cable, the intermediate frequency.

Furthermore, the satellite converters have such characteristics as noise. The noise of the converter significantly affects the quality of the received signal. The more expensive models the noise figure is lower, but this purchase will be justified - at a lower level of noise for high-quality signal will need a plate of smaller diameter, which will save.

Popularity converters with offset due to the extensive use of the irradiator in individual and small collective of satellite receiving facilities offset antennas are small. Converters universal type most often used for the reception of a signal having a linear polarization (popular in Eastern Europe satellites Amos (4°W), Astra 4A (4.8°E), Hot Bird (13°E), and others). Interest in the Ku-band converters designed to receive signals from the circular polarization is associated with the popularity of platforms offer "HTB-Plus" and "Tricolor TV" (Eutelsat W4, 36°E).

When buying a converter useful to draw attention to its construction. Ideally, the converters must be watertight. Otherwise, due to daily fluctuations in temperature inside the converter condensation, which leads to the deterioration of its parameters, and ultimately to failure. A high level of integrity is achieved in converters, placed in a sealed, molded case. The disadvantage of this design is the inability to repair the converter. Some converters are manufactured in a double casing - the internal, metal, closed outer casing, plastic. This leads to the fact that a large part of the condensate falls between the two membranes and flows into the relevant drain. In addition to the lack of integrity, there are other options for structural defects, such as high defect under the action of sunlight or Extreme temperatures. From these pitfalls when buying a hedge is difficult.

Also, the satellite converters differ in the number of independent outputs. In addition to the most popular single output models, there are also models with two (Twin), four (Quatro) and 8-mu output. Such models of converters allow you to watch TV channels from one satellite at two, 4 and 8 receivers.





Converters and differ in shape. Currency firm Inverto (Fig. 3) is designed for installations that use multiple converters on a single satellite antenna. Long flange allows you to place converters close to one another. This makes it possible to receive a signal from satellites located close to one another on the orbital position. Specially designed for the European market DTH, provides the best reception of satellite programs. Ideal for reception of satellite TV programs in high definition (HDTV).



Also available twin converters, such as the company Golden Interstar. Converter that combines two independent universal converter and DiSEqC 2in1. Apply for admission to a satellite dish 90-130 cm from the two satellites facing each other at a distance of 5-6 degrees, such as a bunch of HotBird (13°E) + Astra (19.2°E), Euteslsat (36°E) + Turksat (42°E), etc.