Down-convertor module provides multiple channels

A new and complete low-noise block down-convertor subsystem aims to help satellite broadcasters simplify installations and reduce costs.

A new and complete low-noise block (LNB) down-convertor subsystem aims to help satellite broadcasters simplify installations and reduce costs.

The new LNB subsystem combines up to eight signals on one cable, which can then be delivered to either a single set top box or many STBs around the home via a simple splitter box.

The deployment of digital video recorders (DVR) and dual-TV STBs brings enormous benefits to consumers and operators, but the complexity of each installation comes at substantial cost.

For example, because the DVR allows a user to watch one channel while recording another, it requires two coaxial cables to be connected to the roof-top dish - one for each demodulator within the STB.

A fully functional dual-DVR requires four inputs from outside the home.

At the heart of ST's LNB subsystem is a new silicon integrated circuit, the SaTCR-1.

This chip shifts the frequency of any input signal to an intermediate frequency that can then be combined with other similarly processed signals and passed down a single cable to a corresponding number of tuners in one or more STBs within the home.

This capability allows consumers to upgrade a basic satellite free-to-air STBs to a DVR box without the need for an expensive site visit by an engineer.

"By using LNBs equipped with the SaTCR-1 chip, consumers can purchase additional STBs and be confident of a simple self-installation procedure", said Christos Lagomichos, General Manager of ST's Set Top Box Division.

"Also, they can use the original set-top box with a second TV set, all without any modification to the satellite dish or any additional cables outside the home".

Control of the SaTCR-1 device is achieved through a cost-effective 8bit microcontroller, the ST7LNB1.

This preprogrammed microcontroller decodes DiSEqC (Digital Satellite Equipment Control) commands issued by the STBs within the home and controls each SaTCR-1 through a two-wire interface, without any additional external resources.

The micro also supports seven predefined LNB applications.

This simple control mechanism ensures that the host STB requires no new hardware to take advantage of the capabilities of a SaTCR-1-enabled LNB.

Furthermore, by including a microcontroller with upgradeable software in the LNB, ST is enabling innovative applications such as LNB positioning, intelligent diagnostic functions, and simple inter-box communication.

The SaTCR-1 and ST7LNB1 devices are available now priced at $3 and $1.50, respectively, in quantities of 10,000 units.

Back to top