Sion Association (Pcta), Inc

PHILIPPINE CABLE TELEVISION ASSOCIATION (PCTA), INC.

CABLELINESep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLELINE

To allow us to better serve our members: Editor-in-chief 1. Please update your official authorized representative, WESLEY C. SELDA address, contact number/s and email address/es with Editorial Board the secretariat to facilitate better communication. An RALPH B. CASIÑO update form has been posted on the official Facebook ATTY. GERIK CAESARE A. PADERANGA page of PCTA and was sent through email. If you have BONG C. SILLONA JOSE LUIS E. DABAO not accomplished it yet, please let us know by calling MA. ISABELITA SY-HOLLITE the PCTA office at the telephone numbers (02) 638 8542/44 or send SMS to mobile number +63 922 845 Managing Editor, 7292. Advertising Manager 2. In an agreement entered into by PCTA with TV5Monde, SAM L. LANUZA France 24, Al Jazeera, Euronews and Channel Editorial Assistant NewsAsia, these channels are giving free carriage to JENNEFER A. MANGUSSAD PCTA Members. Members are therefore encouraged to carry FTA signal and advise the channel assignments to Circulation facilitate authorization documentation, visit the PCTA ARLENE C. TAN BEN L. SARILLA website for more information. ANGELIQUE BAUTISTA 3. The PCTA is offering assistance in processing MTRCB permits and NTC TVRO license renewal for a minimal Contributors fee. You may get in touch with Liaison Officer, Mr. Ben HBO Sarilla for details. ENGR. FREDERICK D. ESQUILLO ENGR. JOSEPH M. ARGUELLES 4. Your comments and suggestions are highly appreciated, DARWIN S. AMOLAR you may reach us through the following media CASBAA MCN INTERNATIOAL PTE. LTD. Facebook.com/pcta.org.ph

Publisher PHILIPPINE CABLE TELEVISION ASSOCIATION @pcta_news on twitter (PCTA), INC. Unit 504 Taipan Place Condominium, www.pcta.org.ph | [email protected] F. Ortigas Jr. Road, Ortigas Center, Pasig City 63.2.638.8541 • 63.2.638.8544 63.2.638.8541 Fax No.: 63.2.638.8542 [email protected] www.pcta.org.ph

We often hear the following abbreviations: Coax, RF, FTTH, and IP.

Like most businesses we are bombarded with an alphabet soup of terminologies it’s easy to fall behind, I'm here concentrating on these four. Coaxial Lines and Radio Frequencies, this is our traditional method of content delivery. Fiber and Internet Protocols are the new bad boys. FTTH and IP offer bigger capacity, more stability, more security, and more services.

As always engineering will demand the best of the best available technology in order to deliver the best possible service to our patrons. It is management's job to balance this and provide a stable economy to keep our business saleable and competitive. Shifting over from RF to IP is a big deal, it will take time, money and of course a transition period. In a service business like ours where downtime is a mortal sin; this shift will not and cannot happen overnight. If you are like most operators you have begun to use a Hybrid Coax and Fiber (HFC) network and you are somewhere in between the RF and IP services.

Mr. Sillona's article describes the shifting demands of our patrons; basically our "scheduled" content has a diminished demand. The Internet is quickly eating traditional cable content by delivering content faster, on demand, and on a more personal level. The household budget previously allotted to us is getting reallocated to internet subscriptions.

The good news is we are capable of shifting over and delivering the internet to our patrons. As the demand shifts we can shift right along with them. How you do it and how fast you move is of course up to you. The PCTA stands ready to assist; there are a whole lot of engineering solutions available to us today in moving services from RF to IP.

The PCTA continues to provide technical seminars to keep our engineering teams updated. Our directors continue to attend regulatory events that matter to our business. (Please check out the Memorandum circular only available online) Wesley

DISCLAIMER The opinions, views and/or contents expressed in the articles, contributors or paid advertisements of Cable Line are exclusively that of their author or originator, and do not necessarily reflect the position or stand of the PHILIPPINE CABLE TELEVISION ASSOCIATION, INC.

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 4 CABLE LINE

View from the Chair {by Atty. Gerik Caesare A. Paderanga}

PCTA: CABLE OR PAY- through telephone lines via digital subscriber line (DSL) or TV ASSOCIATION? broadband through fiber-optic cables (FOC). On the other hand, as cable operators our coverage is limited by the his year is a defining reach of our Hybrid Fiber-Coax (HFC) infrastructure. But, moment for PCTA. this limitation also comes with technological advantages. TFor the first time Unlike DTH, where signal quality is compromised due to since its creation in 1987, bad weather conditions, and IPTV’s growth is hindered by the Board has created an the high cost of even slow internet speeds, signal delivery amendments and reform to our subscribers by virtue of our HFC cables is much committee to address the more reliable, more convenient and less expensive; hence, vagueness and the insufficiency of our association’s articles and more efficient. Clearly, each technology is different with bylaws. During the regular board meetings, several questions their respective advantages and disadvantages. However, were asked and discussed, but the more important ones are: and this is the crux of the matter, our distinct technologies Who are entitled to vote as members of PCTA, is it one vote per compete for the same subscribers – we are fighting for the member or one vote per franchise/provisional authority (PA) same pesos that our subscribers are willing to spend. And registered? Are there rules for automated elections? Should since the requirements and rudiments of each technology an internal accountant be added as a corporate officer? differs from the others, each one – cable, DTH or IPTV Who are eligible bank signatories authorized to withdraw – has its own set of interests to protect. In fact in the funds from the association’s accounts? Who should be the United States, SMATV (Satellite Master Antenna Television members of PCTA? Should it be exclusive to cable operators System), MMDS (Multiple Distribution System) and DBS only or should we include all other DTH operators? Or, should (Direct Broadcast Satellite) systems are not eligible for we include all Pay-TV [i.e., Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) membership2 to the National Cable & Telecommunications operators]? Of all these questions, I want to zero in on one Association (NCTA).3 The biggest DTH companies in the because it is the most pressing. US like DirectTV and DISH Network are not eligible for NCTA membership. Evidently, the clashing interests of the This is the issue pertaining to membership. The issue has operators of the divergent technologies could not be any hounded the association for years and it is time to close starker. it. To resolve this, it is important to stress that the primary purpose for which the PCTA was formed is to promote the In the history of our business as cable operators, never cable television industry1 and not any other. By the nature before have we encountered stifling competition as tough of our technology as cable operators, we do not have the as those we face today.4 Not only do we have to compete same interests with DTH or IPTV operators. DTH operators, among our fellow cable operators in our respective areas, by their direct-broadcast satellite (DBS) technology, we also have to compete with at least three Direct-to-Home operate anywhere nationally and can offset their losses (DTH) players (i.e., Cignal, G-Sat, Dream, and very soon SKY in one area for more profitable areas. Meanwhile, IPTV DTH) operating nationally and fairly soon, IPTV players. can either be delivered wirelessly (i.e., 3G/4G/5G), While we already face the herculean task of competing

1 The PCTA articles of incorporation provide that the first purpose is “To promote cable television industry as partner of the government in national growth and to inform the public of the role of cable television system as an important communication source; to promote the general welfare and best interest of the association in general and its members in particular; to promote and foster more effective cooperation among cable television system operators for the purpose of raising the standard of the industry; and to do any act and all acts and things which are necessary and proper to accomplish the objectives mentioned.” 2 https://www.ncta.com/who-we-are/membership 3 The NCTA is the principal trade association for the US cable television industry, representing more than 90% of the US cable market, more than 200 cable program networks, and equipment suppliers and providers of other services to the cable industry; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Cable_%26_Telecommunications_ Association 4 http://www.manilatimes.net/pay-tv-market-slow-to-grow-faces-tough-competition/197793/ (continued on page 5)

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 PICS

CABLE LINE 5

M i n d a n a o M a t t e r s {by Maribel Sy-Hollite}

Madayaw CABLEBOSS also held its Cable Service Marketing Workshop (CSMW) last 27 August 2015 at Limketkai Luxe Hotel in Mindanao Cagayan De Oro City with the theme: Accelerate Success. The event was jampacked with 100 delegates from 48 Mindanao Cable Operators cable operators in Mindanao. The event was conducted by are blessed to have been Marketing Guru Mr. Jaime “JB” Borromeo. flooded with various activities such as seminars, Last but not the least with the fast pace of technology in workshops & Roadshows our industry PCTA Technical Seminar In Cagayan de Oro was last August 2015 offered by held last August 20 to 21, 2015 themed as “The Improved our partners in the industry. & Upgraded TV Technical Seminar “ headed by PCTA Technical Committee Chair Engr. Joseph M. Arguelles (esd) Last 21 August 2015, Creative Programs, Inc. (CPI) held its – together with Mr. Wesley Selda, Mr. Ralph B. Casiño and Roadshow at Eden Natural Park & Resort, Toril Davao City. Atty. Gerik Caesare Paderanga. Endorsed by the National The event was successful with 110 delegates from 40 cable Telecommunications Commission (NTC) and Institutes of systems all over Visayas and Mindanao. It was a day full Electronics Engineer of the Philippines (IECEP), the seminar of adventure & nature trekking. The highlight of the event successfully served its purpose to provide our technical was their guest speakers that share some industry learnings personnel a knowledge on the evolving technology of the about Indi Films from Producer & Director, Arnel Mandoquio cable television industry in the Philippines. who was born and based in Davao City. On the other hand, A many thanks to our suppliers, channel providers & partners Ms. Salve Duplito, Resident & Financial Adviser of ANC, talked in this industry for sharing more knowledge & technology in about Financial Management that will help assess long term their expertise. investment for the cable systems. The activity ended with an exciting fellowship night with lots of food, drinks, games & GANDANG BUHAY! God Bless everyone. raffle prizes. Maribel Sy-Hollite

(from page 4) with media giants like ABS-CBN/SKY Cable and G-SAT5/Solar law of the Philippines serves as a beacon of light.9 However, Entertainment Group,6 telecommunications conglomerates enforcement of the said law remains to be seen. are now joining the fray and we just have to take it on the chin but remain steadfast. To be sure, Cignal DTH is owned and Dear PCTA members, I highlight this issue because in the controlled by the powerful PLDT-SMART group. More to the coming months the Board will be submitting proposed point, PLDT directly competes with us by aggressively selling amendments to the articles of incorporation and the bylaws their PLDT HOME FIBR “Triple-Play” Internet-IPTV-Telephony for your ratification. Indeed, I am honored and privileged to be services.7 This is a real cause for apprehension because elected as a director of the Board much more your Chairman. telecommunications companies like PLDT-SMART and Globe I may not be bestowed this privilege next year. I want to Telecom are multi-billion corporations that have vast financial seize this opportunity now to bring this to your attention. resources, and at the same time enjoying the monopoly of As fiduciary of the corporation and with the interests of all internet bandwidth in our country.8 The very recent passage PCTA members in mind, I therefore urge you—there has never of the Philippine Competition Law or the “anti-monopoly” been a better time to unite as cable operators and protect our collective interest. When these amendments are presented for your ratification, know where you stand. 5 G-SAT has released its lowest price package of P99/month; http://www.gsat.asia/ 6 http://www.philstar.com/business/481273/local-group-puts-satellite-tv-firm 7 http://pldthome.com/fibr/vas/triple-play-with-cignal 8 http://www.philstar.com/business/2015/03/09/1431460/cartels-monopolies-forever 9 http://manilastandardtoday.com/2015/07/20/anti-monopoly-law-signed-today/

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 6 CABLE LINE

DO YOU STILL WATCH TV? {by Mr. Bong SIllona}

Content is King they said, and there are too many content providers out there. Currently, from all local channel distributors and the free to air channels, there can be more than 150 channels available for carriage in a Cable TV Service. But do you notice what the content and channel owners are doing. Most of the contents are being digitized and channels transcoded so that it can be available on streaming platforms. Whether thru video on demand, linear channel streaming, downloads, Youtube or clips found on social media, etc., is how most people consume contents and obtain information. Before, the stagnant and/or worst, the decline in revenues Here are the common answers: on cable business is mostly blamed to pilferage. Now, we can name a few from overbuilding, competition with I do but during the daily news only. DTH operators, Terrestrial Network Digitalization and most especially the changing behavior of our customers • Only for live sports telecasts. are obvious reasons why we need to revisit our business • I rarely watch TV nowadays. strategies. • I don’t watch TV anymore. • Do we need more channels? • Everything is online. • Do we need to digitize our platform to avoid pilferage? • Do we need to create multiple tier subscription • Yes, because I have a Smart TV. packages? For a cable operator, these are very discouraging replies. I • Do we need to offer HD channels? remember that during my days with program distributors, cable operators compete according to the number of • Do we need to offer Broadband Internet Service? channels they provide their customers. It is true back then that the more channels you have, the happier your Instead of answering these questions, many cable operators customers will be. resorted in selling their businesses as remedy to the predicted dilemma of the near future. There are many sound solution The above replies are excerpts from a survey recently in our upcoming battles, we just need the right perception conducted by a cable operator. According to the survey, and realization that we need another business model that most of the subscribers are demanding the cable operator to will be adaptive and relevant to the needs of our customers. create a lower tier plan with fewer channels. The subscribers also pointed out that savings from the reduction of their For comments and suggestions about this article email PCTA cable subscription can help them upgrade their current at [email protected] broadband subscription. Good news is, at least they are not yet dropping their cable subscription.

(from page 7) among local internet and data service providers. He domestic connection rather than being routed through encouraged all ISPs, Cable TV/Cable Broadband Providers offshore international cables. and even the telcos to support and continue the support by Lastly, the research group urges the government to invest directly peering with PHOpenIX. more in telecommunications infrastructure while encouraging more competition among Internet Service As a side note, just recently, PLDT and DOST/ASTI signed Providers, which Cable TV/Broadband Providers can play a a memorandum of agreement. In the agreement, PLDT big role. will set a local peering with PHOpenIX (here’s the catch), only for the Government networks, e-services and not for Please give your comments or feedback in the PCTA Forum consumer traffic. This means that local data traffic toward (Please create your profile by clicking the login button at government websites can now travel faster through www.pcta.org.ph)

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 7 An Update on the Senate Hearing on Slow and Expensive Internet {by Engr. Joseph M. Arguelles}

An Update on the Senate Hearing on Slow and Expensive Internet By: Engr. Joseph M. Arguelles

Sen. Bam Aquino, chair of Senate Committee on Trade, Commerce and Entrepreneurship held last August 18, 2015 a hearing on the impact of slow and expensive Internet connection in the country. Section C.1 In attendance were notable representatives from NTC, The Commission shall conduct the DOST, DTI, NEDA, PLDT, Smart, Globe, Democracy.net.ph monitoring and measurement. (a civil society group), FICTAP and yours truly representing Philippine Cable Television Association (PCTA). Section C.7 For Cable Broadband, the An independent research showed that the Philippines’ measurement shall be done at the overall Internet speed was the third to lowest among its LAN port of the cable modem. Asian neighbors, even behind Vietnam. Their study also revealed that the actual internet speed versus its advertised Section C.14 speed continually deteriorates from 2011 to 2014. The Commission shall prescribe the official measurement and monitoring The major telcos’ actual internet speed were a lot less than tool to be used. The official what it had been advertising, thus being accused of ‘false measurement and monitoring tool advertising’. With the urge from Sen. Bam Aquino, the shall be downloadable and available National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) published to the public. NTC Memorandum Circular 07‐08-2015 which basically states, among others, that; Attached herewith is the official copy of NTC Memo Circular 07-08-2015. Section B.1 The subscribers/consumers/users NTC officials said they will conduct a pilot test ofthe shall be properly informed of the Internet connection speed in September, and will officially broadband/internet connection start Internet speed testing in October. service being offered to them through, among others, flyers, brochures, Mr. Bani Lara, who was once a resource speaker in PCTA advertisements, etc. The information convention, also presented in the committee hearing shall always be updated. that local peering with DOST-ASTI’s PhOpenIX will greatly improve the country’s overall Internet performance. Section B.2 PhOpenIX is the only Exchange in the Philippine Internet Internet Service Providers (ISPs) shall industry operated by a neutral institution that allows the specify the average downstream and exchanges of Internet traffic in a free-market environment upstream data rates per area. (continued on page 6)

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 8 CABLE LINE What’s New? DELEGATES New Tracks! In previous conventions we had the management and technical tracks this year we will add the operations tracks!! for HR, Finance, Marketing and other disciplines. These Skills are just as important in today’s business environment so we will create a track to help us develop our people! space will be limited so we will require online registration! Technical Seminars for Managers There is often a disconnect between the business side and the technical side so the Technical committee is preparing an overview for common problems caused by this disconnect helping managers understand technical constraints better!

Industry Roundtables The convention theme is Shift and one of the main causes for shifting in our industry is technology, we have invited top executives of early adopters to speak candidly about their experiences and share any lessons learned to help those who haven’t invested in new technology to help them in their decision making!! Yes, ROUNDTABLES! In the afternoons, the technical committee and special guests from our early adopters will schedule casual conversations about particular technology and strategies around this to give both managers and technical staff a better handle on this new technology with feedback from actual users aside from the vendors! nothing helps a purchase decision better than user feedback

Tuesday Fun Day! Tuesday isn’t just arrival day! we will arrange fun and games for early birds Tuesday afternoon! PCTA Appreciation Night! It’s not new, but we are continuing and hopefully cementing as a tradition the PCTA appreciation night. It’s only right that we highlight longstanding members and show appreciation to sponsors and exhibitors on stage!!!

Back2theFuture Shifts were not described better than in the classic trilogy by Robert Zemeckis Back 2 the Future starring Michael J. Fox and Christopher Lloyd, so at the Fellowship Night at the Manila Ballroom in the Marriott come in your best retro or futuristic outfit! You might win a prize!!!

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 9

MOVERS & SHAKERS

BANAL NA KRUS KOOPERATIBA SA PAGPAPAUNLAD (BANKKOOP CATV SERVICE)

On the Spotlight: offer lower subscription fee. To cope up, they improve and upgrade their services to deliver exceptional services to Mr. Darwin S. Amolar their members and the community. Manager, Banal na Krus Kooperatiba sa Pagpapaunlad (BANKKOOP CATV BANKKOOP CATV SERVICES is a new member of PCTA (2015). SERVICES) They signed up for the association to be well informed {by: Sam L. Lanuza} about the newest technology and technical knowledge of their system. Banal na Krus Kooperatiba sa Pagpapaunlad is a multi- purpose cooperative which offers lending and CATV services to its members and the community. They started their operation in July 1995 in Quezon, Quezon located in the Southern Alabat Island with merely 15,000 people. Their main objective is to provide quality entertainment and information in their community

Currently, they are the only CATV system in their municipality, offering 22 channels for a monthly subscription fee of Php200. Their cooperative is consist of seven board of directors and seven employees.

Like any other businesses, they experience threat in the form of natural calamities as well as other services that

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 10 CABLE LINE

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 11

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 12 CABLE LINE

FIRST LEG OF THE UPGRADED PCTA TECHNICAL SEMINAR HELD IN CDO! {by Engr. Pere Esquillo}

The PCTA Technical Committee went to Cagayan de Oro A total of 62 attendees participated the activity City for its technical seminar last August 20-21, 2015 representing 18 companies and 2 IECEP Chapters: at Seda Centrio. The seminar was also opened for non- Camiguin Island Cable TV Corp., DEARBC Cable Network, member and/or non-industry practicing PECE, ECE, and Eastcoast Cable TV Network, Gemstar Cable TV, Green ECTs for 12 CPD/CPE credit units. Valley Cablevision, Inc., IECEP-CDO Chapter, IECEP-Caraga Chapter, Misamis CATV Network, Inc., Nabunturan Cable The opening ceremony was graced by Atty. Gerik Caesare TV Network, Orient Cable & Telecommunications, Inc., A. Paderanga, Chairman of the Board and he welcomed Panabo Satellite Cable Television, Inc., Panguil Bay Media the presence of Engr. Elpidio M. Paras, Engr. Romeo L. Ventures, Inc., Parasat Cable TV, Inc., Sibuguey Valley Zerrudo, Engr. Romeo M. Miguel of NTC Region X, and CATV Cooperative, SIGEMPCO Cable Television, Skyline the participants. He emphasized the importance of Community Network, Inc., Southern Cablevision, Inc., learning as the CATV industry keeps on evolving. Engr. Unique Cable Network, Inc., Valencia Cable TV Network, Romeo M. Miguel, in behalf of Dir. Teodoro D. Buenavista Inc., and Z-Energy CATV Network, Inc. Jr., delivered some inspirational message. Then Engr. Fernando C. Morales introduced the Technical and The seminar proper started at exactly 9:00 am on a joint Industry Development (TID) Committee members who session with the following topics: were present to discuss their assigned topic/s. TID Chair • “Cable TV System” by Engr. Fernando Morales Engr. Joseph M. Arguelles, on the other hand, discussed • “OSHA” by Engr. Ricky Cruz the seminar guidelines.

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 13

• “Customer Servicing and Work Order Level 1 Management” by Mr. Wesley Selda • “Drop Installation” by Mr. Wesley Selda After lunch, breakout sessions for Level 1 (Cable TV • “Local Area Networking” by Engr. Jesse Glenn Fundamentals) and Level 2 (Emerging Technologies and Thiam Applications) commenced. • “Broadband Services” by Engr. Joseph Arguelles (New topic) For Level 1, the topics were: Level 2 • “HFC Network Design” by Engr. Frederick Esquillo (New topic) • “Cable Wifi” by Engr. Joseph Arguelles (New • “OSP Construction” by Engr. Frederick Esquillo topic) • “Fiber Optics Technology” by Engr. Ricky Cruz • “OTT/TV Everywhere/VOD” by Engr. Joseph Arguelles (New topic) For Level 2, the topics were: • “CDN” by Engr. Joseph Arguelles (New topic) • “Digital Cable TV System” by Engr. Ronaldo Tuzon • “IPTV” by Engr. Joseph Arguelles (New topic) • “IP for Cable Technician” by Engr. Jesse Glenn • “FTTH” by Engr. Ronaldo Tuzon (New topic) Thiam • “IOT/IOE” by Engr. Frederick D. Esquillo (New topic) The simultaneous technical seminars for Level 1 and Level 2 continued the next day. Topics per level were as follows: The seminar was concluded by a final exam to verify and validate their learnings on the topics which were presented. The top passers for each level were then cited and awarded.

(continued on page 14)

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 14 CABLE LINE

(from page 13)

Congratulations to all the participants especially to those Level 2/Emerging Technologies and Applications who topped the exam. 1. Ritchie L. Bete (Parasat Cable TV, Inc.) Level 1/Cable TV Fundamentals 2. Pocholo R. Trinidad (Parasat Cable TV, Inc.) 3. Germanico P. Cañete (Parasat Cable TV, Inc.) 1. Romulo M. Malbas Jr. (Z-Energy CATV Network, Inc.) 2. Ryan C. Amado (Z-Energy CATV Network, Inc.) 3. John Carlo L. Jaictin (Z-Energy CATV Network, Inc.) Willie A. Cainoy (Z-Energy CATV Network, Inc.)

TECHNICAL SEMINAR IN CDO, August 20-21, 2015

On going discussion on FTTH by Engr. Ronaldo Tuzon On going discussion on FTTH by Engr. Jesse Glenn Thiam on LOCAL AREA Networking

BROAD BAND SERVICES by Engr. Joseph M. Arguelles

FIBER OPTICS TECHNOLOGY by Engr. Ricky Cruz

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE SCREEN RED Now Re-Branded as RED BY HBO 15

HBO Asia’s rst Asian movie channel, SCREEN RED, will be re -branded as RED BY HBOSCREEN from 1 Oct obeREDr 2015. Now The refresRe-Brandedhed channel willas haREDve a vibr BYant neHBOw look, marrying traditionalSCREEN motifs from RED the Now region Re-B wirathnd cedon astemporary RED BY t heHBmesO to better reflect the channel’s younger, more diverse and dynamic viewer pro le. RED BY HBO will also have greater emphasis on local story telling from South East Asia, in addition to those froHBOm JAsapania’s rst, Kore Asanian and movie Gr eachteran neChinal, SCREEN previ ouRED,sly wi featuredll be re on Scre-brandeden RED. as RED BY HBO from 1 October 2015. The refreshed channel will have a vibrant new look, Withmarrying the ne trwad titionalagline omotifsf ‘Asian from stories the you region love’ , witheth refreshed contemporary RED BY t heHBOmes cha ton nebel willtter reflect ctheon tinuechanne tol’s showcase younger, moreinterna diversetionally and acclaimed, dynamic viewer award-winni pro le.ng and RED po puBYlar HBO movies will alsoand serieshave gr fromeater the emphasis region asSCREEN on we localll as RED story HBO Now te AsRe-Bllingia ra Origifromndedna Saslsou RED suchth EastBY as HB AsSeraO ia, ngin oaondd itiRonoad to, Gracethose from Japan, Korean and Greater China previ ously featured on Screen RED. and Halfworlds. HBO Asia’s rst Asian movie channel, SCREEN RED, will be re -branded as RED BY With the HBOnew tfromagli ne1 oOctf ‘Asiobeanr 20 stories15. The you refres love’hed, t hechannel refreshed will haREDve BYa vibrHBOan tc hanenwne lool willk, Launcontinuechedmarrying to in showcase 20 10trad itionalby interHBO motifsna Asti onfromiaally an the dacclaimed, regionMei Ah,with tcaward-winniheon temporaryrebranded tnghe mes chaand tonn po beelputt er wilar llreflect cmovieson tinue and to the channel’s younger, more diverse and dynamic viewer pro le. RED BY HBO will also carryseries Mei from Ah’s the slate reg ofion movies, as we includill as HBOng nine Asia new Origi theatricalnals such releases as Sera thatng willoon premiere Road, Grace first on Asihavean gr eatelevisionter emphasis on onRED local bystory HBO. telling Tfromhey S ouincludeth East theAsia , award-winningin addition to those de tective and Halfworldsfrom Japan. , Korean and Greater China previously featured on Screen RED. crime drama Port Of Call (踏血尋梅) starring Aaron Kwok (郭富城) and the recently released Withhorror the nemoview tagli neKno ofck ‘Asi Kanno storiesck! Who’s you love’ There?, the refreshed (有客到 RED BY) HBOstarring channe Katel will Tsui (徐子). Launched in 2010 by HBO Asia and Mei Ah, the rebranded channel will continue to continue to showcase internationally acclaimed, award-winning and popular movies and carry Meiseries Ah’s slatefrom t heof rmovies,egion as includiwell as ngHBO nine Asia new Origi theatricalnals such asreleases Serang othaton R wilload ,premiere Grace “RED BY HBO is the destination for non first on Asiandan Halfworlds television. on RED by HBO.-stop The Asiy aninclude movie the en award-winningtertainment po wereddetective by one of the world’s most prestigious movie channels – HBO,” said Jonathan Spink, CEO crime drama Port Of Call (踏血尋梅) starring Aaron Kwok (郭富城) and the recently of HBO Asia. “RED BY HBO will have internationally acclaimed titles, award -winners Launched in 2010K nobyck HBO Kno Asck!ia Who’sand Mei T here?Ah, the rebranded channel will continue to andrelea all-time-favsedcarry horror Mei ou movieAh’srite slate Asian of movies, movies includi angnd nine series new theatricalto be (tt有客到er releases cater) starringthat to willou rpremiere Katediverse Tsui audiences (徐子). across thefirst regi onon Asi.” an television on RED by HBO. They include the award-winning detective “RED BY crimeHBO isdrama the dePortstination Of Call (for踏血尋梅 non ) starri-stopng AaronAsian K womoviek (郭富城 entertainm) and theen recentlyt powered by Knock Knock! Who’s There? Avaone ilofab tleherelea inworld’s shiedgh horror mostdefiniti movie prestigion , programmesous movie chan onnels RED ( 有客到BY– HB HBO)O, starring” said are KateJo presentedna Tsuithan (徐子 Spink, ).in CEOoriginal of HBO As ia. “RED BY HBO will have internationally acclaimed titles, award -winners language“RED with BY Eng HBOli shis t heand de stinationlocal langu for noagen subtitles*.-stop Asian movieRED enBYtertainm HBOen ist currentlypowered by ava ilable inand Indo all-time-favneonesia of, Malaysia theou world’srite Asian, mostMyan prestigi moviesmar,ou Philis movieandppines serieschannels, T hato ilbe–and HBtterO, and” catersaid Vietnam. Jo natothan ou rSpink, diverse CEO audiences across theof regi HBOon As.”ia. “RED BY HBO will have internationally acclaimed titles, award -winners With the andrefresh, all-time-fav someourite Asian Asian movie movies titlesand series to look to be outtert caterfor in to Octour obediverser on audiences RED BY HBO Availableacross in hi thegh regi definition.” on, programmes on RED BY HBO are presented in original include: languageAva wiilthab leEng in lihishgh anddefiniti localon, programmeslanguage subtitles*.on RED BY RED HBO BYare HBOpresented is currently in original ava ilable in Indonelanguagesia, Malaysia with Eng, liMysh anandmar, local Phililanguppinesage subtitles*., Thail REDand BYand HBO Vietnam. is currently available in Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. With the refresh, some Asian movie titles to look out for in October on RED BY HBO With the refresh, some Asian movie titles to look out for in October on RED BY HBO include: include:

Korea Singapore Philippines Vietnam Malaysia

Korea Singapore Philippines Vietnam Malaysia S ign up for RED by HBO today! Contact Cable BOSS: TL: +632 633 7361 DL: +632 633 6249 email: [email protected]. Korea Sign up forSingapore RED by HB O today! ContactPhili Cableppine BOSSs : Vietnam Malaysia TL: +632 633 7361 DL: +632 633 6249 email: [email protected]. One Great Source

All GreatOne Netwo Greatrk Sous rce Sign up for RED by HBO today! Contact : All Great Networks Cable BOSS TL: +632 633 7361 DL: +632 633 6249 email: [email protected].

Red by HBO is a service mark of Home Box Oﬃce, Inc. Used with permission. ©2015 HBO Asia. All rights reserved. One Great SouRed rcby HBOe is a service mark of Home Box Oﬃce, Inc. Used with permission. ©2015 HBO Asia. All rights reserved. All Great Networks Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5

Strictly Technical BASIC OPERATION and USE of TEST INSTRUMENTS {by Engr. Pere Esquillo}

A. Multimeter or Volt-Ohm Meter (VOM) d. Typical ranges:

o A device used to measure voltage, current & • DC Voltage: 0.5V, 2.5V, 10V, 50V, 250V, resistance in an electrical circuit. 1000V. Types of Multimeter/VOM • AC Voltage: 10V, 50V, 250V, 1000V. o Digital Multimeter • DC Current: 50µA, 2.5mA, 25mA, 250mA. a. All digital meters contain a battery to power the display so they use virtually no power from A high current range is often missing the circuit under test. from this type of meter. b. Their DC voltage ranges have a very high • AC Current: None. (You are unlikely to resistance (usually called input impedance) of need to measure this). 1 MΩ or more. • Resistance: 20 , 200 , 2k , 20k , c. Typical ranges 200k . • DC Voltage: 200mV, 2000mV, 20V, 200V, These resistance values are in the 600V. middle of the scale for each range. • AC Voltage: 200V, 600V. o Measuring voltage and current with a multimeter • DC Current: 200µA, 2000µA, 20mA, 200mA, 10A*. 1. Select a range with a maximum greater than you expect the reading to be. *The 10A range is usually unfused and 2. Connect the meter, making sure the leads connected via a special socket. are the correct way round. Digital meters can be safely connected in • AC Current: None. (You are unlikely to reverse, but an analogue meter may be need to measure this). damaged. 3. If the reading goes off the scale: • Resistance: 200 , 2000 , 20k , 200k , immediately disconnect and select a 2000k , Diode Test. higher range. o Analogue Multimeter a. Analogue meters take a little power from the o Precautions in using multimeters circuit under test to operate their pointer. • Always disconnect the multimeter before adjusting the range switch. b. They must have a high sensitivity of at least 20k /V or they may upset the circuit under • Always check the setting of the range test and give an incorrect reading. switch before you connect to a circuit. c. Batteries inside the meter provide power for • Never leave a multimeter set to a current the resistance ranges. range (except when actually taking a reading).

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 17

The greatest risk of damage is on the Check the setting of the range switch so current ranges because the meter has a that you know by how much to multiply the low resistance. reading.

o Reading analog scales Sample readings on the scales shown: × 10 range: 260 × 1k range: 26k Analogue Multimeter Scales These can appear daunting at first but remember B. Signal Level Meter (SLM) that you only need to read one scale at a time! • A device that detects, measures and The top scale is used when measuring resistance. monitors power or the intensity of a signal. • It is often referred to as Field Strength Meter (FSM). • It is used for both installation of new Sample readings on the scales shown: equipment in a network as well as for DC 10V range: 4.4V (read 0-10 scale directly) fault finding and routine maintenance. DC 50V range: 22V (read 0-50 scale directly) • Signal measurements may be in dBm, DC 25mA range: 11mA (read 0-250 and divide dBmV or dBµV (1 dBmV = 60 dBµV) by 10) AC 10V range: 4.45V (use o Typical Signal Level Meter Keypads the red scale, reading 0-10) • Function Buttons–They are used to access the functions represented by the icons o Measuring resistance with an ANALOGUE displayed on the display. multimeter • Power ON/OFF–Turns the instrument on and off The resistance scale on an analogue meter • Arrow Buttons–The UP and DOWN is normally at the top. It is an unusual scale buttons can be used to move the marker because it reads backwards and not linear or change the values. (evenly spaced). This is unfortunate, but it is due to the way the meter works. • 2nd Button The– keypad is put into a second function after pressing the 1. Set the meter to a suitable resistance range. 2nd button, and some keys perform as Choose a range so that the resistance you alphanumerical keys. expect will be near the middle of the scale. For example: with the scale shown above and • LEVEL – Enter the level measure mode an expected resistance of about 50k choose the × 1k range. • SCAN –Channel spectrum scanning 2. Hold the meter probes together and adjust • SPECT –Enter frequency spectrum the control on the front of the meter which is usually labelled “0 ADJ” until the pointer • TILT–Toggles between tilt and level list reads zero (on the RIGHT remember!). mode If you can’t adjust it to read zero, the battery inside the meter needs replacing. • LIMIT–Limit test for all active channels 3. Put the probes across the component. • AUTO–Automated test according to the Avoid touching more than one contact at a commands time or your resistance will upset the reading! • SET–Enter the fast setup and full setup mode o Reading analogue resistance scales For resistance use the upper scale, noting that it reads backwards and is not linear (evenly (continued on page 18) spaced).

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 18 CABLE LINE

(from page 17)

MEASURING SIGNAL LEVELS o At the Tap SLM’s Typical Features: o  Measure the tap level. Signal level readings will depend upon system design. Typical level is 14  Single channel display- displays the picture and sound carriers of a selected channel in bar dBmV @ 750Mhz. graph mode. It displays the audio/video ratio.  Record reading for future reference.

o At the Subscriber’s Ground Block Measure signal level before connecting to the subscriber’s ground block. The cable loss at 750Mhz for 100 feet of RG6 coax cable is approximately 6 dB. Example, if the tap level is 14 dBmV at 750Mhz, the level at the ground block is approximately 5 dBmV for 150 ft. RG-6 cable. Example: Tap level= 14 dBmV Cable loss= 6 dB/100 ft. Single Channel Cable loss (150 ft. RG6)= 6 dB x 1.5  Frequency spectrum display- displays all the = 9 dB channels carried by system. Level @ Ground block= Tap level – Cable loss(150 ft.) = 14 dBmV – 9 dB = 5 dBmV

 Record reading for future reference.

Full Scan

 System tilt display- displays several selected channels and also the system tilt (the difference between the highest channel and the lowest channel, in dB).

Tilt Mode

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 CABLE LINE 19

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5 20 CABLE LINE

Sep-Oct 2015 • Vol. 15 Issue 5