EP3465954A1

EP3465954A1 - Efficient compact receive part for satellite signals via a combination of full band capture technologies

Info

Publication number: EP3465954A1
Application number: EP17732332.6A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Christoph Halbig; Sebastian Brüne
Original assignee: Kathrein SE
Current assignee: Kathrein SE
Priority date: 2016-06-07
Filing date: 2017-06-07
Publication date: 2019-04-10
Anticipated expiration: 2037-06-07
Also published as: ES2895703T3; EP3465954B1; WO2017211854A1; DE102016110463A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for connecting multiple participants on multiple satellite levels, in particular of multiple satellites, wherein received signals from a respective satellite are selectively converted on the basis of requirements into a respective multiplex signal in such a way that frequency ranges corresponding to requirements in succession (frequency-multiplexed), and frequency ranges that do not correspond to participant requirements are not present therein, and wherein a converting of the multiplex signals obtained in this way occurs in a respective MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, which is provided to one or more participants. The invention also relates to a satellite receive system for connecting multiple participants on multiple satellite levels, in particular of multiple satellites, in particular configured and determined for carrying out a method according to the invention. The satellite receive system comprises at least two analogue/digital/analogue converters for providing the respective multiplex signals, and at least one analogue/digital converter which is supplied with at least one, in particular all multiplex signals and which emits respective MPEG transport streams. The respective converters are particularly advantageous as FBC-TYPE1 and FBC-TYPE2 components.

Description

title

Powerful, compact receiver for SAT signals by combining full-band capturing techniques Description

The present invention generally relates to the reception of multiple satellite levels, in particular of multiple satellites by multiple receivers or subscribers, and more particularly to methods of connecting multiple subscribers to multiple satellite levels, particularly multiple satellites, as well as a satellite receiving facility for connecting multiple subscribers to multiple satellite levels, in particular several satellites.

US 7,010,265 B2 describes a satellite receiving system in which a plurality of signals can each be received by a plurality of satellites, wherein the received signals are distributed via a switch to a plurality of tuner-demodulator units. The resulting streams are then forwarded to demultiplexers for selection of individual programs. In a manner which is conventional in itself, as is regularly found in such headends, the selection is controlled only after the satellite signals have passed through a highly complex switching matrix.

So far, in the satellite reception technology (eg in televisions, receivers or headends) so essentially a reception principle is used. It consists in principle of the interaction of a tuner with a demodulator. This functional unit is also referred to as Network Interface Module (NIM). Satellite signals are generally in four SAT levels, differentiated by frequency band and polarization. In order to be able to provide the NIM with the correct received signal, the desired SAT level must be selected and supplied at the output of the SAT converter (LNB), for example via a satellite switching matrix. The switching matrix is to be configured by control signals of the demodulator, via DiSEqC command which is transmitted via the respective RF line. The more input signals, eg from several satellites, are switched to many receiving units (NIMs) for simultaneous reception, the more complex is the switching matrix required for this purpose. In order to enable independent operation of the individual NIMs, each NIM must be supplied with its own signal line from the SAT switching matrix. If NIMs in the number n are used, then n signal lines between the matrix and the NIMs are also required. To receive the desired transponder by the respective NIM whose demodulator is programmed by a (central) device controller. The desired reception frequency is set by the demodulator on the tuner. After demodulation of the RF signal, the demodulator provides at its output a digital MPEG transport stream (MPEG-TS).

The aforementioned is reproduced in the block diagram of FIG.

The control of the NIMs is, as I said, by a (central) device controller. For this purpose, the controller evaluates available information about the channel assignment of the satellite to be received or the desired reception frequency. Each NIM in turn communicates on the RF signal line (e.g., via DiSEqC) with the switch matrix to tell it which satellite plane on its signal line needs to be individually powered up. The respective signal line carries the entire frequency band and thus all transponders of the connected satellite level. If several satellites are to be received simultaneously, the principle of selection remains unchanged. Only the complexity of the SAT switching matrix increases since now at least eight input signal lines must be processed internally.

In contrast to the block diagram of Figure 1, such a configuration is shown in the block diagram of Figure 2. Unlike in the first example, Here, NIM 2 captures the "HH" plane of the second satellite, which is essentially the same as the system described in US 7,010,265 B2.

Furthermore, the applicant has tried in recent years by means of the so-called full-band capturing technology (FBC receiver, type 1) to replace individual receiving units (NIM ^'s ) with an integrated module. A corresponding block diagram is shown in FIG. The integrated module (FBC receiver, type 1) digitizes the input spectra of the four adjacent SAT levels and outputs them, according to internal signal processing, as digital baseband transport streams, currently numbering eight.

However, if more than eight satellite channels / transponders are to be received and output at the same time, as required, for example, in the area of headend technology, further FBC reception blocks are required. For the signal feed, the complex input matrix must also be used to enable the independent operation of the FBC receiver components. In the event that several satellites or more than four SAT levels are to be received independently, the complexity of the switching matrix increases again. As illustrated in FIG. 3, many signal lines must be routed to FBC type 1 receivers.

The selection process is very similar to discrete NIM ^'s . The FBC receiver (type 1) is controlled by a (central) device controller. For this purpose, the controller evaluates available information about the channel assignment of the satellite to be received or the desired reception frequencies. Each FBC module in turn communicates on the RF signal line (eg via DiSEqC command) with the switching matrix in order to inform it which satellite levels must be individually switched on its signal lines. This principle works only if no more SAT levels are to be received than inputs of FBC blocks are available. For example, a receiver for three satellites and 16 transponders with only two FBC receivers (type 1) can not be implemented fully functional. In investigations of Anmeldehn was also another Füll Band Capturing technique (Type 2) for so-called. One-cable solutions tried. This technique can be equated with a complex filter and converter, which leaves the modulation type and the modulation content unchanged, but re-assigns the frequency position at the output. For this purpose, the complete input spectrum of the four SAT levels is digitized and re-analogized to internal signal processing and reproduced as a newly composed RF frequency spectrum on a signal line in the frequency division multiplex. Currently, for example, type 2 components are available whose output spectrum consists of up to 24 freely selectable satellite channels / transponders on one output line. In another operating mode, several output lines can be activated, the output spectrum of which is then composed in total of up to 32 freely selectable satellite channel transponders. If the frequency range at the output or lower bandwidth of the individual transponders is increased, the number of output channels could also be greater than 24 or 32. This technique does not provide access to baseband signals (MPEG-TS).

Selection Procedure: In single-cable systems, a fixed assignment (pairing) of single-cable receivers (NIMs) and a fixed output frequency assigned to the receiver of the single-cable matrix is taken to enable independent operation of the individual receivers. With 24 output frequencies a 50MHz bandwidth in the frequency band 950 ... 2150MHz there are accordingly 24 receiver-frequency pairs. The tuner of each NIM always remains constant in its reception frequency, in contrast to the first example. To select the desired program, the controller in the single-cable receiver (receiver) evaluates available information on the channel assignment of the satellite to be received or the desired program. Each single-cable NIM in turn communicates on the HF signal line via DiSEqC in accordance with the single-cable standard with the single-cable matrix in order to tell it which transponder from the adjacent satellite levels must be individually switched on at its receiving frequency.

A block diagram representing this arrangement is shown in FIG. In the example, 14 out of 24 possible output transponders are shown. Receive the receiver frequency pairings 1 - 4 (eg RTL); 5 - 6 (eg Tele 5); 7 - 9 (eg ARD) and 10 - 14 (eg BBC) the same transponder.

The output spectrum of 950-2150 MHz contains 14 out of 24 possible transponders. Transponders which are present only once at the input of FBC type 2, occur theoretically at the output depending on the program request of the single-cable receiver up to 24 times with identical content but different frequency.

In Figure 5, this fact is shown to illustrate a program change. On the single-cable receiver No. 1 requiring transponder switching (e.g., switching from RTL to ARD, the first one), the content of the output spectrum on the FBC type 2 is changed as requested by the receiver (# 1) by DiSEqC command as shown below. After switching, receivers 1 and 7 - 9 receive the same transponder.

All the methods used so far, as well as the experimental designs described above, use DiSEqC as the communication standard between the receivers (NIMs, single-cable receivers or FBC type 1). The DiSEqC signals are transmitted on the HF lines. Switching matrices are an essential feature of the known methods that are always switched on the signal lines to the receivers (NIM ^'s FBC type 1) complete satellite levels without changing the original content, and the selection of the desired transponder in the receivers (NIMs FBC Type 1). If a type 2 FBC module is used according to the single-cable standard, transponders at its inputs, depending on the program request of the single-cable receiver, are also shown several times at the output. The invention is based on the object of providing a method for connecting a plurality of subscribers to a plurality of satellite levels, in particular of a plurality of satellites, and a satellite receiving system for connecting a plurality of subscribers to a plurality of satellite subscribers. provide more satellite planes, in particular from multiple satellites, in which the need for switch matrix is reduced.

This object is achieved with the features of the independent claims, preferred embodiments are defined in the dependent claims.

In particular, the invention proposes a method for connecting a plurality of subscribers to multiple satellite levels, in particular of multiple satellites, in which received signals from a respective satellite are selectively converted into a multiplexed signal based on requirements such that frequency ranges corresponding to requests in sequence (with or without unused frequency ranges), and frequency ranges which do not correspond to requirements are not present therein, and in which a conversion of the multiplexed signals thus obtained takes place in each case one frequency band corresponding MPEG transport stream which is provided to one or more subscribers.

Requirements are usually programmed by an administrator of the headend for this, depending on which programs so transponder or frequency ranges to the participant, so the end user to be made available or are requested or requested. The requirements are thus defined during commissioning and then only rarely, for example, when new transponders have been awarded, or participants wish to receive previously unused programs.

The invention thus makes it possible to significantly reduce the need for switch matrix, which is particularly advantageous, since HF signals of up to 2150 MHz are to be handled here. As a result, complex requirements with regard to decoupling measures to be undertaken are likewise reduced. Especially when receiving satellite planes that are on different satellites, this effect becomes even clearer. Thus, the invention provides a two-fold conversion, wherein the two conversion steps should be coordinated with each other. First, the satellite signals are converted in a first step under a suitable specification in a specific multiplexed signal, which is subsequently converted again in coordination with the multiplexing process in order to form corresponding MPEG transport streams.

The concept is ultimately based on a preselection of the frequency ranges to be received, corresponding to transponders that correspond to a request, ie have been programmed by the administrator based on which programs the subscribers or receivers want, may or should. The method thus provides a preselection in such a way that frequency ranges which do not correspond to any transponder to be received are not further considered and converted at all. For example, they may be transponders that contain encrypted signals for which no key is available, or for transponders that contain signals about a program in a language that is not supported (-> desired / needed), etc. In other words It will also be noted that frequency compression is performed, with only the frequency ranges of concern being further discussed. Only these are then finally implemented in another conversion process in the desired MPEG streams. Ordering in a row (= frequency division multiplexing) can arrange both the relevant frequency ranges in an ordered and a disordered sequence, with or without gaps. An arrangement having a frequency structured configuration may be advantageous, although this is not as compelling as the fact that the sequence should be continuous. However, an initial startup should attempt to provide a frequency structured configuration. The terminology of a sequence used in the present application thus includes any arrangement of used and unused frequency ranges, and in advantageous embodiments frequency-structured configurations may be preferred. Of course, it remains essential that information about the arrangement of the sequence and the further conversion of the multiplexed signals thus obtained in each case in a frequency range corresponding MPEG transport stream is taken into account. Advantageously, the multiplexed signal conversion, ie the first conversion step or the frequency division multiplexing, includes a frequency range selection and sorting step. For example, optimized sequences can be configured according to requirements. For example, it is possible to convert all (relevant) transponders of up to 4 satellite levels, for example from one or more satellites, into a sequence or a multiplexed line in order to place it on only one input for the further conversion step (eg of FBC type 1) , Thus, with less required inputs, more satellite levels can be handled. A selection step also allows compression as unneeded or free frequency ranges do not require bandwidth.

Depending on which shape the arrangement takes in sequence, e.g. On the one hand, a "sorting" method can be used with gapless filling of frequency ranges, which advantageously leads to lower power consumption (of the components) in a simpler control / configuration for converting the multiplexed signals, eg resulted in type 1 blocks.

Advantageously, the conversion of the multiplexed signals takes place in accordance with the frequency range selection and sorting step. In the second conversion step, there is thus a decoding. The two conversion steps can thus be carried out in a particularly coordinated manner, for example by using a common controller, which carries out the arrangement in sequence and can accordingly carry out or control the conversion of the multiplexed signals

Advantageously, the multiplexed signal conversion comprises a successive filling of available transmission spectra, eg output spectrum FBC-TYP2. Although not fully detectable, it seems advantageous to provide a structured frequency arrangement, particularly advantageously with no gaps, in order to allow lower power consumption, but then only a re- reduced level of simplification of the control / configuration during the second conversion (eg FBC type 1) possible. It should be pointed out again that the arrangement in a row is virtually arbitrary, but structuring and / or filling can be advantageous.

Advantageously, the conversion of the multiplexed signals comprises a successive filling of available MPEG transport stream channels, which may for example also be embodied physically as lines. In the description herein, it should be understood that when referring to a conduit, a concrete embodiment of the general term channel is meant. Although, as mentioned, the arbitrary arrangement offers a high degree of flexibility, a structured frequency domain arrangement without defects may be desirable, for example, for initial commissioning, but "reserve areas" could also be useful for future program requests, if, for example, one multiplex signal per each Satellite or a multiplex signal for each level of a satellite.

Advantageously, the multiplexed signals are distributed in such a way that each user is provided with the frequency spectrum corresponding to the entire subscriber requirements.

Even if it is possible that certain subscribers can not / do not want to receive all the programs, it is advantageous to provide all subscribers with all signals according to the programming made by the administrator to provide maximum flexibility. In an example in which the first step with type 2 blocks and the second step with type 1 blocks are accomplished, whereby the blocks are controlled by a common controller, this means that all type 2 blocks are connected to each type 1 block , This results in the advantage of full flexibility in the selection of the transponder, which is each received and demodulated by a Typ1 receiving unit. If more multiplexed signals than inputs per Type1 are available, any satellite can not be received with every Type1 receiver. the. This firstly increases the configuration complexity. On the other hand, possibly resources can not be used.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a satellite receiving system for connecting a plurality of subscribers to a plurality of satellites, in particular configured and determined for carrying out a method as defined above or in the method claims, comprising:

at least one multi-input analog / digital / analog converter for providing the respective multiplexed signals; and

at least one analog / digital converter, which is supplied with at least one, in particular all multiplexed signals and outputs respective MPEG transport streams.

By using at least one multi-input analog / digital / analog converter, e.g. four inputs for four satellite levels to provide respective multiplexed signals; and at least one analogue to digital converter which is supplied with at least one, in particular all multiplexed, signals and outputs respective MPEG transport streams it is possible, for example, to receive a plurality of satellite levels from one or possibly several such that preselection into the analogue / digital / analogue Converters (eg FCB type 2) in conjunction with receiving in one or more further analog / digital converters (n) (eg FCB type 1) significantly less circuit diagram or layout and routing complexity allows.

By using, for example, two analog / digital / analog converters each having four inputs for every four satellite planes of two satellites to provide respective multiplexed signals; and at least one analog-to-digital converter supplied with at least one, in particular all, multiplexed signals and outputting respective MPEG transport streams, it is possible, for example, to receive two satellites such that preselection in the analogue-to-digital / analogue converters (e.g. FCB type 2) in conjunction with reception in one or more further analog / digital converters (eg FCB type 1) enables considerably less circuit diagram or layout and routing complexity. Of course, it is also possible to provide several other analog / digital converters (eg FCB type 1). Advantageously, the satellite receiving system includes at least one analog / digital / analog converter, programmable or controllable by a controller, in particular designed in each case as FBC-TYP2 module.

In this case, it is advantageous that analog / digital / analog converters or analog / digital converters in FBC technology require less space and power. As already mentioned, the programming is implemented by an administrator of the requirements in order to be able to satisfy the wishes of end users or participants. The programming may be based on a fixed assignment of receive transponders or, alternatively, based on a selection of transponders to be received, which may then be optimized, ie structured and optionally provide frequency-compressed multiplexed signals. FCB components are also available on the market and therefore cost-effective.

Advantageously, the satellite receiving system includes at least one analog / digital converter, programmable or controllable by a controller, in particular each designed as FBC-TYP1 block. Again, it is advantageous that analog / digital / analog converter or analog / digital converter in FBC technology have less space and power requirements. It is therefore particularly advantageous if both converters are formed exclusively of FCB blocks, whereby a common control by a dedicated common controller possible and the programming by an administrator of the headend is easy to display.

Although a wide variety of configuration or arrangement options exist, such as a first converter and at least two second converter or at least two first converter and a second converter, the configuration should advantageously be such that first converter or analog / digital / analog converter, in particular FBC-TYP2 modules, in a number corresponding to the satellites to be received, and second converters or analog-to-digital converters, in particular FBC-TYP1 modules, for a number which is determined by the ratio of a maximum len number of output channels of a first converter or analog / digital / analog converter, in particular FBC-TYP2 block and a processing capacity and a second converter or analog / digital converter, in particular FBC-TYP1 blocks results.

Advantageously, by way of example, the satellite receiving system analog / digital / analog converter, in particular FBC-TYP2 modules, in a number corresponding to the satellite to be received and analog / digital converters, in particular FBC-TYP1 - blocks, in a number resulting from the Ratio of a maximum number of output channels of a first converter or analog / digital / analog converter, in particular FBC-TYP2 module and a processing capacity and a second converter or analog / digital converter, in particular FBC-TYP1 - results. Based on currently available building blocks for the converters of the type that each type 1 building block with a processing capacity of four by eight transponders thus twenty four transponders can be received. Each type 2 device has four inputs for each one level of one satellite and one output with a possible twenty-four transponders. This results in a preferred factor of three, resulting from the possible twenty-four transponders and the eight transponders (there are also blocks with two outputs, but only with only sixteen possible transponders - this would result in a preferred ratio of one to four )

With a maximum of 24 transponders in a multiplex signal, this number can be completely converted into received and demodulated transport streams. For example, full flexibility is currently available with up to 24 FBC Type 1 receiver units (3 Type 1 modules), otherwise not all receivers could be programmed to different transponders on the same satellite. At least that applies to the fixed assignment of satellites to type 2 modules, which, as described above, is a type of sequence formation that is particularly preferable. Advantageously, the satellite receiving system includes two or four analog / digital / analog converters, in particular FBC-TYP2 modules and three, six, nine or twelve analog / digital converters, in particular FBC-TYP1 modules.

Advantageously, the satellite receiving system further includes a controller which controls the at least one, in particular the at least two analog / digital / analog converters and the at least one, in particular the at least two analog / digital converters, whereby a DISEqC communication, in particular on HF Connecting lines, can be avoided.

Advantageously, the satellite receiving system further includes a controller that controls the at least two analog / digital / analog converters and the at least one analog / digital converter, whereby a DISEqC communication, in particular on RF interconnections, can be avoided.

The use of a common controller, which controls both converters or both FBC module types, enables particularly effective and effective control without complex switching matrices and programming is easily possible both during initial commissioning and during subsequent adjustments by an administrator, eg if a program selection change is to be made, or if a transponder change or a frequency re-allocation has occurred on the satellite side

Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments. Reference is made to the accompanying drawings in which:

Fig. 1 is a block diagram for explaining the prior art. Fig. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the prior art in multi-satellite reception Fig. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the FBC-TYP-1 technology.

Fig. 4 is a block diagram illustrating the FBC-TYP-2 technology. Fig. 5 is a block diagram for further explaining the FBC-TYP-2 technology

Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating the principles of the invention based on a simplified example illustrating how signals from a satellite are handled.

Figure 7 shows another simplified block diagram for explaining how signals from one satellite can be converted to a total of sixteen MPEG transport streams.

Fig. 8 is a block diagram for explaining the invention wherein two satellites are received to be converted to eight MPEG transport streams by a second converter. 9 shows another block diagram for explaining the invention wherein two satellites are received so as to be able to be converted with three second converters in each of eight, ie a total of twenty four MPEG transport streams. 10 shows yet another block diagram for explaining the invention wherein two satellites are received, the multiplexed signals from two first transducers are output via two Ausgansleitungen to four second transducers in each of eight thus a total of zweiundreissig MPEG transport streams to be converted.

Fig. 1 shows a block diagram for explaining the invention in a transponder change within the spectrum of a satellite. FIG. 12 shows a block diagram for explaining the invention in the case of a transponder change between two satellites.

Hereinafter, a method will be described as an embodiment of the invention.

The signals are received in the usual way via one or more satellite dishes equipped with LNBs. As usual, these are signals that are polarized in four planes (commonly called HH, VH, HL, VL). In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, these are subjected to preselection of the transponders to be received (in the exemplary embodiment, in a type 2 FBC module for receiving a satellite).

In the method for connecting multiple subscribers to multiple satellite levels, particularly from multiple satellites, signals received from a respective satellite are selectively converted into a multiplexed signal based on requirements (programmed by an administrator of the headend based on the program selection desired) or digital / analog / digital converters) that frequency ranges which correspond to requirements in succession and frequency ranges which do not correspond to subscriber requirements are not present therein. In other words, there is a selection and a multiplex of transponders, whereby the selected transponders at the output of the FBC type 2 occur only once as an example for the first converter. The content of the transponder remains unchanged. The frequencies are set by the controller. The term sequence is to be understood as any arrangement by multiplexing the transponders with or without structure, with or without gaps.

In the further signal handling, conversion (second converter or analog / digital converter) of the multiplexed signals thus obtained takes place in each case in an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, for example by means of an FBC-TYP1 module as an example of a second converter, which MPEG transport stream one or more participants is made available. In other words, the reception of the type 2 preselect transponder provided on a line with a fixed assignment line 1 / input 1 according to satellite. 1 Thus, there is no need for DiSEqC communication on the RF link, but rather the control of the receive parameters can take place through a (central) μ-controller.

This process is shown schematically for a satellite in FIG.

FIG. 7 shows a simplified example of the advantageous use of two FBC types in the reception of more than eight transponders from one satellite, or up to four independent SAT levels. The selection of transponders can be done in any combination of the four adjacent SAT levels. The sequence of transponders at the output can also be freely configured. Both settings are made by the central μ-controller, depending on how it was programmed by the administrator according to requirements, for Participants can provide the programs they want, if necessary with pre-selection by the administrator. It also configures the FBC Type 1 receive blocks.

As shown, the transceivers preselected by FBC Type 2 (the satellite typically provides about 100 transponders in 4 satellite planes) are provided on the same line on both Type 1 FBC devices as a converted multiplex signal. With currently available FBC Type 2, either 24 transponders are output via one line or 16 transponders each via 2 lines - only the first configuration is shown here. The fixed assignment line 1 / input 1 corresponds to satellite 1, principle always applies if a configuration as shown is used.

The maximum configuration for a satellite possible with the current components is 24 transponders on one line. As the performance of the FBC Type 2 increases, more than 24 transponders can be displayed on one output line. A second operating case, not shown here, is the use of the second output of the FBC module type 2. This allows a maximum of 16 transponders to be implemented per output. The number of reception The necessary blocks of type 1 result from the ratio of the maximum number of output transponders on type 2 and the number of receive channels of type 1. The currently available modules offer 24 (one line) or 32 (two lines) output channels (type 2) and eight receive channels (type 1). Thus, the current maximum configuration for receiving a satellite 1 x FBC type 2 combined with 3 x or 4 x FBC type 1 is connected by one or two signal lines.

FIG. 8 shows another simplified example of an embodiment of the invention for illustrating the advantageous use of the two FBC types for receiving more than four SAT levels with only one type 1 receiver, but which itself has only four input lines , The desired transponders (here only a small number of transponders were selected for illustration purposes - these correspond to requirements and have already been programmed accordingly by the administrator) from the respective satellites or independent SAT levels at the inputs of the FBC modules of type 2 are concentrated on one output line each. These output lines are fed to the inputs (currently up to four) of the Type 1 receiver. Line 1 corresponds to satellite 1 as in the previous example, line 2 corresponds to satellite 2. The selection from the adjacent SAT levels is made by the central μ-controller. It also configures the receive block FBC of type 1.

As shown in FIG. 8, with 950 .. 2150 MHz output spectrum, 5 of 24 possible transponders occupy input 1 on FBC type 1 receiver, whereas 3 of 24 possible transponders occupy input 2 on type 1 FBC receiver ,

An example of an embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 9 in order to illustrate the advantageous use of the two FBC types for receiving more than four SAT levels with three type 1 receivers, which, however, have only four input lines themselves. The desired transponders from the respective satellites or independent SAT levels at the inputs of the type 2 FBC modules are concentrated on one output line at a time. These output lines are the inputs (currently up to four) of the here three receivers of the type 1 supplied. Line 1 corresponds to satellite 1 as in the previous example, line 2 corresponds to satellite 2. The selection from the adjacent SAT levels is made by the central μ-controller. It also configures the receive block FBC of type 1.

As shown in FIG. 9, the reception of the transponders by the Type 1 FBC devices is divided as follows:

# 1 receives transponders 1-8 from satellite 1 on line 1; # 2 receives transponders # 9-14 from satellite 1 on line 1 and transponders # 15 and 16 from satellite 2 on line 2; No. 3 receives the transponders Nos. 17-24 from satellite 2 on line 2. For this advantageous, simple assignment of the receiving sequence, different receiving combinations are possible as long as each FBC module of type 1 is provided for the reception of currently a maximum of eight transponders.

FIG. 10 shows a further example in which the previously explained one is used in combination, wherein two type 2 modules each having two output lines and four type 1 modules are used and a transponder change is to be displayed in a satellite. The block diagram shows a combination of the previous examples. Shown is the reception of 32 among all possible (about 100 per satellite) selected (corresponding to requirements) transponders from two different satellites or eight independent SAT levels. Line 1 corresponds, as in the previous examples, satellite 1, line 2 satellite 2. In the FBC block type 1 no. 2, in this example, signals from both satellites are received, while blocks 1 and 3 only receive signals from one satellite at a time. In this regard, any combination is possible. From the reception of signals from only a single satellite plane of one of the satellites to complete mixed operation. The configuration of the five FBC components is done by the central μ-controller.

The maximum configuration possible with the current blocks is 4 satellites or 16 independent SAT levels corresponding to the number of independent input lines on the FBC block type 1 with four inputs on the FBC block. Module type 2. As the number of inputs increases, more than 4 satellites could be received using this principle in the future.

Those skilled in the art will recognize that a variety of configurations are possible, such as the multiple (parallel) use of FBC devices of either type in any combination and the absence of DiSEqC communication between FBC Type 1 and Type 2.

The invention is particularly effective when more SAT levels are to be received than inputs to type 1 FBC devices or more transponders are to be received than a Type 1 FBC device can receive.

The example shown only shows the underlying principle. Not all advantages of the invention are shown in the illustrated embodiment because the FBC type 1 also has four inputs with which all four SAT levels which are present at type 2 could be received.

In addition to the previous examples, a further development is also to be represented in the illustration according to FIG. 10, in this example the activation of the second output a on the FBC building blocks of type 2 will be discussed. The reception of 32 transponders from two different satellites or eight independent SAT levels is shown. Line 1 corresponds to satellite 1 as in the previous examples, line 2 satellite 2 to the FBC blocks type 2, both outputs are activated. The principle of the invention remains unaffected by the activation of further outputs. In the FBC module type 1 No. 3, signals from both satellites are received in this example, while the blocks 1; 2 and 4 only receive signals from one satellite at a time. In this case, for example, the following transponder assignment can be used

transponder occupancy FBC Type 2 No.1 Output 1: 16 TP from satellite 1 FBC Type 2 No.1 Output 2: 2 TP from satellite 1

FBC Type 2 No.2 Output 1: 0 TP from satellite 2

FBC Type 2 No.2 Output 2: 14 TP from satellite 2

The reception of the transponders by the type 1 FBC devices is divided as follows: # 1 receives transponders 1-8 from satellite 1 on line 1; # 2 receives transponders # 9-16 from satellite 1 on line 1; No. 3 receives transponders Nos. 17 and 18 from satellite 1 on line 1 and transponders Nos. 19 to 24 from satellite 2 on line 2; # 4 receives transponders # 25-32 from satellite # 2 on line # 2. Activation of the appropriate output lines on Type 2 FBC devices is controlled by the central controller.

FIG. 11 shows a further example based on a software-supported solution. The receivers (type 1) are assigned fixed input frequencies. The configuration is done such that e.g. the first eight output frequencies in the spectrum (950 - 2150 MHz) are always received by receiver No. 1, the subsequent eight frequencies by receiver No. 2 etc. (Assumption: Type 1 can receive a maximum of eight frequencies). This definition applies to all four input lines.

The person skilled in the art will recognize that both a successive arrangement (for power minimization) and a frequency arrangement can be used fixedly assigned to type 1 - receiving units. Obviously, the programming by the administrator of the headend must be carried out accordingly.

The reception example shown in the previous illustrations with the strictly arranged mapping of the input transponders to the output of the FBC type 2 blocks is an ideal configuration for headends which, however, also has to be changed during runtime of the system (eg because of transponder changes of the satellite operator). If the new reception situation concerns only one satellite, the original transponder is replaced by the new one to be received at the exit of the replaced FBC (type 2) at the same output frequency. The settings (eg symbol rate) that may be different for the reception of the new transponder are made on the receiver type 1 (here no. 1). The transport stream (in the example TS3) contains the programs of the new transponder after reconfiguration. So that the uninterrupted operation of the system can be ensured, all other configurations are retained (see FIG. 5 / Example 1 according to the invention).

If the transponder change concerns several satellites or type 2 FBC modules, the affected output transponders on these modules are output at the same frequency on the line required for the satellite / FBC module. This is shown in FIG. At the receiver type 1, the receive frequency is now received at the corresponding (new) input. All configuration settings are made by the controller. The transport stream TS3 contains after reconfiguration the programs of the new transponder from satellite 2 (see example 2).

For the initial configuration of such a system (especially when receiving several satellites), the orderly, frequency-structured configuration of type 2 FBC modules should be aimed for. This can u.a. the power requirement receive blocks are lowered.

In order to interpret a method or a plant according to the invention, it is possible to use the following calculations:

Number of FBC receivers Type1: (X)

Number of channels per FBC receiver Type1: (Y)

Inputs per FBC receiver Type1: (Z)

Number of FBC receivers type 2: (A)

Outputs of FBC Type 2 receivers: (B)

Inputs per FBC receiver type 2: (C)

Number of channels per output line if only one output of each type 2 FBC receiver is active: (M) Number of channels per output line if several outputs of the individual FBC receivers type 2 are activated: (N)

This results in the following formulas for calculating the maximum transponder number (T) and the maximum possible number of satellites (S) (four input lines each) or independent SAT levels (E) that can be received.

T = X ^* Y for M> = X ^* Y (only one output of each FBC receiver type 2 active) T = X ^* Yfor B ^* N> = X ^* Y (several outputs of the individual FBC receiver type 2 active)

S = ((A ^* C) / 4)) for S <= Z

E = A ^* C) for E: C <= Z

In summary, the invention can drastically reduce the need for complex SAT switching matrix, which can lead to a considerable saving potential as well as to a faster processing. Additional damping measures are only required on a reduced scale.

Claims

Expectations

1 . Method for connecting several participants to several satellite levels, in particular from several satellites, in which received signals from a respective satellite are selectively converted into a multiplex signal based on requirements in such a way that frequency ranges that meet the requirements in sequence (frequency multiplexed) and frequency ranges that do not correspond to any subscriber requirements, and in which the multiplex signals obtained in this way are converted into an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, which is made available to one or more subscribers.

2. The method according to claim 1, in which the multiplex signal conversion (first conversion step = frequency multiplexing) contains a frequency range selection and sorting step, in particular a frequency-structured arrangement in a sequence.

3. The method according to claim 2, in which the conversion of the multiplex signals (second conversion step = decoding) takes place in accordance with the frequency range selection and sorting step.

4. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the multiplex signal conversion comprises successive filling of available transmission spectrums.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, in which converting the multiplex signals includes successive filling of available MPEG transport stream channels or lines.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which multiplex signals are distributed in such a way that the entire frequency spectrum corresponding to the requirements is available to each participant.

Satellite reception system for connecting several subscribers to several satellite levels, in particular of several satellites, in particular designed and intended for carrying out a method according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising:

at least one, in particular at least two analog/digital/analog converters for providing the respective multiplex signals; and

at least one, in particular at least two, analog/digital converters, which are supplied with at least one, in particular all, multiplex signals and output/output respective MPEG transport streams

Satellite reception system according to claim 7, in which the at least one, in particular the at least two analog/digital/analog converters are programmable or controllable by a controller, in particular each designed as an FBC TYP2 module.

Satellite reception system according to claim 7 or 8, in which the at least one, in particular the at least two, analog/digital converters are programmable or controllable by a controller, in particular each designed as an FBC TYP1 module. 10. Satellite reception system according to one of the preceding claims 7 to 9, comprising analog / digital / analog converters, in particular FBC TYP2 modules, in a number corresponding to the satellites to be received and analog / digital converters, in a number that consists of the ratio of a maximum number of output channels from a first converter or analog/digital/analog converter, in particular FBC-TYP2 module, and a processing capacity and a second converter or analog/digital converter, in particular FBC-TYP1 module. Satellite reception system according to one of the preceding claims 7 to 10, further comprising a controller which controls the at least one, in particular the at least two analog / digital / analog converters and the at least one, in particular the at least two analog / digital converters, whereby a DISEqC -Communication, especially on HF

Connecting lines can be avoided.