!
!
1.0 Technology Brief
Table of Contents
Contents Scope ...... 3 Some Satellite Television Principles ...... 3 Compression ...... 3 %HOO79¶V6DWHOOLWH)OHHW ...... 3 91 Degrees West Longitude ...... 4 82 Degrees West Longitude ...... 5 Distribution Technology ...... 6 Role of the Dish ...... 7 Role of the LNB ...... 7 Switches ...... 9 SW21 ...... 9 SW44 w/ power supply ...... 10 MUX w/ power supply ...... 10 Dish Pro Plus ...... 10 Satellite Receivers ...... 12 Current Models ...... 12 Past Models...... 13 Types of Video and Audio Outputs ...... 16 !
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
Scope
7KLVVHFWLRQSURYLGHVDQRYHUYLHZRIKRZGLJLWDOVDWHOOLWHVLJQDOVDUULYHDW%HOO79¶VFXVWRPHUV¶KRPHDOO across Canada. Also provided is a brief description on the currently approved installation configurations.
Some Satellite Television Principles
%HOO79¶VVDWHOOLWHEURDGFDVWQHWZRUNLVEDVHGRQWKH'9% 'LJLtal Video Broadcast) standard. DVB defines how signals are uplinked and how to communicate with IRDs (Integrated Receiver Decoder) deployed in the field.
Compression
Raw video signals contain a large amount of data and consequently take up a lot of bandwidth. Since there is a finite amount of bandwidtKDYDLODEOHWR%HOO79LW¶VLPSRUWDQWWRPDNHWKHEHVWXVHof it. Bell TV uses MPEG (Motion Picture Expert Group) compression, specifically MPEG2. MPEG2 uses a set of algorithms or mathematical calculations to remove redundant or unperceivable data in the video stream. By doing so, this allows Bell TV to offer over 600 channels. All of Bell TV receivers are MPEG2 compatible. MPEG 2 has been used for almost 20 years and engineers have pushed the technology to the limit.
The need for better compression has ushered in MPEG4, the next step that will allow more compression yet continue to preserve picture quality. In 2011, Bell TV began to use MPEG4 for select HD channels. Once all HD receivers are replaced with MPEG4 capable models, Bell TV will fully convert HD channels to MPEG4. This will further increase the ability for Bell TV to launch many more HD channels«
Once all channels are compressed they are combined into a data stream. This data stream is also combined with encryption, electronic program guide, receiver software and System Information (SI) tables. This data stream is then modulated into a frequency then uplinked to the Nimiq fleet of satellites.
%HOO79¶V6DWHOOLWH)OHHW
Bell TV occupies two orbital slots: 91W and 82W. The Bell TV satellites operate in the DBS Ku frequency spectrum (12.2GHZ to 12.8GHz). Each orbital slot uses 32 Ku-DBS transponders within this range.
91W is the primary orbital location where all Bell TV customers access. 82W is the secondary orbital slot where customers access HDTV signals.
Where Exactly#$ Are%& %Our% Satellites'()*+, (&% -.& /(*%++0*%/1
Nimiq 1 andW 2 hate 91Wre exactly are they in space?
Find Thunder Bay ON and go directly south until you reach the equator. ThenNimiqs go 35,800 1 and km up.2 a t 91W Find Thunder Bay, ON and go directly Nimiq 4 at 82W south until you reach the equator. Then go Start in Windsor ON.3 5,800 km up.
For Nimiqs 4 at 82W start in Windsor, ON The Clark Belt
Where the forceTh eof (DUWK¶VClarkgravit Beationallt pull is equal to the outward force of an object moving in a circular motion. This point in spaceW ish e35,800re the kms fo rcefrom othef gsurfaceravit\¶s of ptheull Earth.= to the outward force of an object moving in a circular motion. The point in space is 35,800 kms from the surface of the Earth.
!"
The Nimiq Fleet
Bell currently uses 3 satellites. Each orbital slot has 32 Ku Transponders. We use 2 satellites in one location to: 1. Increase the power of some transponders (increase signal reliability). 2. Increase bandwidth.
91 Degrees West Longitude
In 2011 two satellites (Nimiq 1 and Nimiq 2) operate together to transmit 32 Ku-DBS band transponders
Nimiq 1 Profile
Launch Date: May 20, 1999 Payload: 32 Ku-DBS transponders Owner: Telesat
Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin Launch location: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
Nimiq 2 Profile
Launch Date December 29, 2002 Payload: 32 Ku-DBS transponders Owner: Telesat Manufacturer: Lockheed Martin Launch location: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
These two satellites operate in tandem to increase the satellite signal power over several transponders. This increase in power results in a more reliable service for Bell TV customers.
In 2012, Nimiq 6 will be launched to replaced Nimiq 1 and 2. Nimiq 6 will provide more power than Nimiq 1 and 2 combined, to further increase service reliability for customers.
82 Degrees West Longitude
Nimiq 4 is placed at 82W and transmits 32 Ku-DBS band transponders.
Nimiq 4 Profile
Launch Date: September 2008 Payload: 32 Ku-DBS transponders, 8 Ka band transponders (not in use) Owner: Telesat Manufacturer: EADS Astrium Launch location: Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan
Distribution Technology
The Nimiqs broadcast our transponders in the DBS ± Ku Band frequency spectrum.
Satellite TV signals are broadcast using alternating polarization to maximise the number of transmissions carried in a given frequency range. Satellite receivers are able distinguish between transmissions using the same frequency but different polarization. In North America, DBS transmissions use left hand circular polarization (LHCP) and right hand circular polarization (RHCP).
Why we polarize transponders
More bandwidth Higher power signals
Role of the Dish
When the Nimiq satellite transmits GDWDWKHGDWDLVUHFHLYHGE\WKHGLVKHVLQVWDOOHGDWWKHFXVWRPHU¶V location. The transmitted data hits the curved dish, which reflects the signal inward onto the LNB. The LNB then passes the signal on to the receivers.
Role of the LNB
Ku band signals can be transmitted well in space and in the air but not well along a denser medium like coaxial cable.
The LNB (Low Noise Block) Converter takes the Ku-DBS signal and converts it to an L-band frequency range. This L-band frequency is designed to transmit signal along coaxial cable (950-1450MHz).
Since we use two polarities, the LNB must switch back and forth between the two frequencies. Each IRD has the ability to switch the LNB to choose the required polarity. This is achieved by the receiver sending a voltage pulse up the coax cable to the LNB. If the LNB receives a 13V pulse, it will switch to the RHCP (right hand circular polarisation) and allow all the odd transponders to pass down the coax cable. If the LNB receives a 18V pulse, it will switch to the LHCP (left hand circular polarisation) and allow all the even transponders to pass down the coax cable.
How does the receiver know when to switch between the polarities?
Bell TV transmits System Information (SI) tables to the receiver with information that links transponder frequency, polarity, satellite location and channel number together. When a receiver acquires signal, it is downloading and processing these tables.
Single Satellite Operation
All Standard Definition channels are located on Nimiq 1 and 2 transponders. Customers that subscribe only to Standard Definition programming require only one LBN pointing towards 91W.
Dual Satellite Operation
High Definition channels are located on Nimiq 4 transponders. Customers that subscribe to High Definition programming require two LNBs to receive both satellite signals: One LNB receives 91W programming (SD) and another LNB receives 82W programming (HD).
Switches
2 types of distribution tech
Legacy SW44, SW21
Current DPP SW21
Each IRD must have the ability to select the RHCP or the LHCP as required. Since each LNB output can only transmit one polarity at a time, this works best when one of the dish/ LNB output can be dedicated to a specific receiver. When utilizing a second receiver, an additional riser between the LNB second output and the second receiver is required. To overcome the two receivers per LNB limitation, a multi switch is required.
The dual satellite multi switch is fed RHCP and LHCP signals from two LNBs for a total of 4 inputs. It then offers each tuner the possibility to select any of the 4 available polarities.
The Dual multi switch comes in two models 2:1 (SW21) or 4:4 (SW44). The SW44 switch comes with a separate power inserter. The transformer, power inserter, and switch all must be installed indoors. The power inserter must always be connected to port #1.
Two SW44 switches are required to support more than 4 receivers. SW44 w/ power supply This is done by splitting all 4 outputs coming from both LNBs. The two way splitters need one DC pass each.
Note: The SW44 may be used to take the place of a ground block. Please refer to section 5 for grounding procedures.
MUX w/ power supply
Dish Pro Plus
DPP TWIN LNBF uses DISH Pro Plus technology to connect up to two single- or multi-tuner receivers without a switch. If a switch is used, the DPP Twin LNBF can support more than two single or multi-tuner receivers. The DPP Twin LNBF simplifies installation.
If directing output from the DPP Twin LNBF to dual-tuner receivers using a single coax connection, a DPP Separator must be used.
If installing a DPP Twin LNBF and a dual-tuner receiver without a DPP Separator, connect coax cable from the two ports of the LNBF into each tuner on the receiver.
The LNB In port of the DPP Twin LNBF accepts input from a band- stacked, single-orbit LNBF.
The LNB In port of the DPP Twin LNBF is disabled when the DPP Twin LNBF is connected to a switch.
The DPP Twin LNBF supports legacy (non-DP and non-DPP) receivers if at least one DP or DPP receiver is used in the configuration.
Legacy DP Compliant DPP Compliant 1000 3100 3200 2700/ 3700 4100 5200 3500 5100/5800/5900 6131/6141 4500 6100 9200 4700 9241 9242
RG6 Cable
RG-6 is a common type of coaxial cable and is used for Bell Satellite TV installations. RG-6 refers to the diameter of the cable used and how the cable is shielded. RG-6 cables are fitted with F connector type which can be universally found on any television. ! For more information on RG-6, refer to Section 4 of the manual (External Wiring).!
Wiring Diagrams
The following diagrams show how LNBFs and switches work together to transmit signal to the receivers.
6131
With Multiplexer With SW21 With SW44 With DPP
9241
With Multiplexer With SW21 With SW44 With DPP
Satellite Receivers
From our standard definition receiver to Canada's best HD PVR, we offer the right equipment to meet the entertainment needs of our customers. Current Models !
Digital Receiver HD Receiver HD PVR Receiver
Model 4100 6131 9241
HD enabled
Dual Tuner
OnScreen programming guide
Remote PVR capable iTV enabled
Recording capable
Watch & record enabled
Parental locks
UHF remote: control your TV from any room in the house
30-second skip forward/backward
60-minutes buffer with recording capability
Display only the channels you subscribe to at the push of a single button
Onscreen Caller ID capable (with subscription)
Specifications
HDMI output
S-video
Dolby Digital output
Selection of screen sizes: 4:3 or 16:9
USB port Dimension H: 5 cm x W: 22 5.08 cm (H) x 33.5 8.9 cm (H) x 37.5 (W) cm x D: 24 cm (W) x 25.9 cm (D) cm x 31.8 cm (D)
Weight 0.79 kg 2.3 kg 5kg
Color Black Black Black
External hard drive support (PVR upgradable)
Compatible with most brands of external hard drives
Past Models !
Model 1000 2700 3100 3500 3700 4500 4700
HD enabled
Dual Tuner
On-screen programming guide
Remote PVR capable iTV enabled
Recording capable
Watch & record enabled
Parental locks
UHF remote: control your TV from any room in the house
30-second skip forward/backward
60-minutes buffer with recording capability
Display only the channels you subscribe to at the push of a single button
Onscreen Caller ID capable (with subscription)
HDMI output
S-video
Dolby Digital output
Selection of screen sizes: 4:3 or 16:9
USB port
Dimension
Weight
Color
External hard drive support (PVR upgradable)
Compatible with most brands of external hard drives
Model 5100 5800 5900 3200 5200 6100 6141 9200 9242
HD enabled Dual Tuner
On-screen programming guide
Remote PVR capable iTV enabled
Recording capable
Watch & record enabled
Parental locks
UHF remote: control your TV from any room in the house
30-second skip forward/backward
60-minutes buffer with recording capability
Display only the channels you subscribe to at the push of a single button
Onscreen Caller ID capable (with subscription)
HDMI output
S-video
Dolby Digital output
Selection of screen sizes: 4:3 or 16:9
USB port
Dimension
Weight
Color External hard drive support (PVR upgradable)
Compatible with most brands of external hard drives
Types of Video and Audio Outputs
Looking at the back of a satellite receiver, there are a number of different video and audio outputs can be used to connect to a television or sound system which are outlined below
Image Description Type
RF (Coaxial) Output Analogue Standard coax output. Relays all elements of the satellite picture and Audio & sound. Allows for output to television on either channel 3 or channel 4. Video
Benefits: Basic F connector type which can be universally found on any television.
RF (Coaxial) Agile Modulated Output Analogue Available on models: 3200, 5200, 9200 & 9242. Audio & Video Relays all elements of the satellite picture and sound but is changeable to include AIR: Channels 21 ± 69 and CABLE: Channels 73-125.
Benefits: the agile output is 10 db higher than channel 3/4 for longer runs.
Composite (RCA-type) Output Analogue High quality standard definition connection to TV audio and video Audio & input. Isolates the video and audio parts of the signal and outputs Video them individually. The yellow jack outputs the video signal. The white jack outputs the left channel audio signal and the red jack outputs the right channel audio signal for stereo sound.
Benefit: Picture quality using RCA is better than coaxial.
S Video Analogue Video only. Video
It is the highest quality standard definition connection to TV video input.
Using this output for video still requires audio output or digital audio output connections.
Benefit: Picture quality using S Video is better than Composite. Y Pr Pb Output Analogue Component type output - This output is the HDTV equivalent of an Video S-video connection. The YPrPb module transmits image data (color and brightness) over three coaxial cables: brightness (Y), red (Pr) and blue (Pb).
Using this output for video still requires audio output or digital audio output connections.
Benefit: Picture quality using Y Pr Pb is better than S Video.
DVI (Digital Video Interface) Digital Video only. Available on model 6100 only. Video
Allows direct digital connection between television and receiver.
Using this output for video still requires audio output or digital audio output connections.
Dolby Digital Optical Output Digital Takes the data stream of a Dolby Digital soundtrack and relays it via Audio fibre optic cable to a television or home theatre receiver for surround sound decoding.
Benefit: Dolby Digital offers the best sound for home theatre. The optical output is digital. There is no signal lost between the satellite receiver and the amplifier.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) Digital Compact audio/ video interface for transmitting uncompressed digital Audio & data. It is a digital alternative to consumer analog standards such as Video coaxial cable, composite video and S-Video.
On a single cable HDMI supports any uncompressed TV video format, including standard, enhanced and high-definition video and up to 8 channels of compressed or uncompressed digital audio.