Sony Europe
The challenge was to create a system capable of distributing TV signals from multiple satellites many of which were test feeds only and not available for public viewing.
Sony required the signals for testing and development of both hardware and software for the latest generation of digital interactive satellite receivers and integrated digital televisions.
In order to achieve some of the requirements, IVC Media had to develop test procedures for signals where commercial test equipment and specifications were unavailable. The system was to be used for developing and testing the latest technology for several different countries in the European marketplace.
The system had to simulate the signals available to the home user without the additional complication of DiSEqC switching usually associated with distribution networks. Both quality of signals and operation had to simulate the one dish to one receiver home environment. In order to achieve this objective cost effectively, IVC Media designed a cross patchable RF distribution system. Effectively, the backbone consisted of 4 separate satellite distribution systems for different satellite signals.
These systems were all fitted within self-supporting steel cabinets which as well as housing the equipment also provided the cross patching facility. The cabinets were fitted adjacent to the laboratory workbenches to allow easy access to cross connections for the users. Each cabinet provided switched distribution outputs for all available satellites and DTT services and connection points for all the lab workbench outlets. The cross patching connections were also used to fulfil the requirements of BSEN 50083 safety standards for earth safety.
In order to provide an additional set of reference quality signals, the systems were combined to locally provide test signal generators for both analogue and digital services. The test signals were provided for various different European broadcast standards in addition to the UK standard.
The majority of these signals were received via a series of fixed satellite antennae supported by a motorised unit capable of viewing all visible satellites.
The system design was a further development of a similar system installed by IVC Media at the Sony manufacturing complex in Pencoed, South Wales.
