ES2895703T3 - Compact and efficient receiver element for satellite signals by combining full band capture techniques - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for the connection of several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular of several satellites, in which in a first conversion step signals received from the respective satellites are converted, based on subscriber requirements, selectively in each of them in a multiplex signal, such that frequency ranges, which correspond to subscriber requirements, are present in a signal line in the frequency multiplex, and frequency ranges, which do not correspond to any subscriber requirements, are not are present in it, and in a second conversion step, in which a conversion of the thus obtained multiplex signals takes place in each case an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, which is made available of one or more subscribers, the first conversion step containing, in order to make the corresponding multiplex signals available, an analog/digital/analog conversion with the following steps which are based on Full-Band Capturing, FCB, type 2 receiver technology: Digitization of the input spectrum of four satellite planes of the respective satellite, signal processing as well as analogization again and reproduction as HF frequency spectrum newly composed into a signal line in the frequency multiplex, and in the second conversion step an analog/digital conversion of at least one, in particular all multiplex signals and respective MPEG transport streams being output, being digitized by means of Full-Band Capturing, FBC, type 1 receiver technology input spectra from four satellite planes arriving and being emitted, after internal signal processing, as digital baseband transport streams.

Description

DESCRIPTION

Compact and efficient receiver element for satellite signals by combining full band capture techniques

The present invention relates in general to the reception of several satellite plans, in particular of several satellites, by several receivers or subscribers and more especially to methods for the connection of several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular of several satellites, as well as to a satellite reception facility for connecting several subscribers to several satellite plans, in particular several satellites.

US 7,010,265 B2 describes a satellite reception system, in which case several signals can be received respectively from several satellites, the received signals being distributed via a switch to a plurality of tuner-demodulator units. The resulting transmissions are then transmitted to demultiplexers for the purpose of individual program selection. In a usual way per se, such as is found in this type of headend, a selection control is produced only once the satellite signals have passed through a highly complex switching matrix.

EP 2852078 A1 also describes a relevant known state of the art in this respect. Until now it is used in satellite reception technology (for example in televisions, receivers or also headends) thus essentially a reception principle. It consists mainly of the interaction of a tuner with a demodulator. This functional unit is also called a Network Interface Module (NIM). Satellite signals are generally found in four satellite planes, differentiated by frequency band and polarization. In order to make the correct receive signal available to a NIM, the desired satellite plane has to be selected and supplied at the output of the Low Noise Block (LNB) satellite transformer, e.g. satellite matrix switcher. For this, the switching matrix is transmitted via demodulator control signals, by DiSEqC command of the corresponding HF line, and configured.

The more input signals, eg from several satellites, are switched in many receiver units (NIMs) for simultaneous reception, the more complex the switching matrix required for it.

To allow independent operation of individual NIMs, each NIM must be powered with its own signal line from the satellite matrix switcher. When NIMs are used in number n, n signal lines are also required between the array and the NIMs.

For the reception of the desired transponder via the corresponding NIM, its demodulator is programmed by a device controller (central). The desired receive frequency is set by the demodulator in the tuner. After demodulating the HF signal, the demodulator outputs an MPEG transport stream (MPEG (Digital Satellite Equipment Control)-TS (German Transportstrom)).

The aforementioned is reproduced in the block diagram of figure 1.

Control of the NIMs occurs, as stated, through a (central) appliance controller. For this, the controller evaluates available information on the channel occupation of the satellite to be received or on the reception frequency. Each NIM communicates for its part in the HF signal line (for example, via DiSEqC) with the switching matrix, in order to communicate to it which satellite plane is to be connected individually in its signal line.

The respective signal line carries the entire frequency band and thus all transponders of the connected satellite plane. In case several satellites are to be received at the same time, the selection principle remains unchanged. It only increases the complexity of the satellite matrix switcher, since at least eight input signal lines now have to be processed internally.

Deviating from the block diagram according to figure 1, such a configuration is reproduced in the block diagram according to figure 2. Unlike in the first example, in this case NIM 2 receives the plane "HH" of the second satellite. This configuration essentially corresponds to the system described in US Pat. No. 7,010,265 B2.

In addition, the Applicant has tried in recent years to replace individual receiver units (NIM) with an integrated module by means of so-called Full-Band Capturing technology (FBC receiver, type 1). A corresponding block diagram is reproduced in Figure 3. The integrated module (FBC receiver, type 1) digitizes the input spectra of the four incoming satellite planes and outputs them, after internal signal processing, as signal transport streams. digital baseband, currently numbering eight.

Should more than eight satellite channels/transponders have to be received and transmitted at the same time, however, as is required, for example, in head-end technology, additional FBC receiving modules would be necessary. For the signal supply, the complex input matrix must also be used in this case, in order to allow independent operation of the receiving components FBC. In the event that several satellites or more than four satellite planes are to be received independently of one another, the complexity of the switching matrix increases again. As clarified in Fig. 3, many signal pathways have to be guided to type 1 FBC receptors.

The selection procedure is much the same as for discrete NIMs. The control of the FBC receivers (type 1) occurs via a device controller (central). For this, the controller evaluates available information on the channel occupation of the satellite to be received or on the reception frequencies. Each FBC module communicates for its part in the HF signal line (for example, via DiSEqC command) with the switching matrix, in order to communicate to it which satellite plane is to be individually connected to its signal lines.

This principle works only when no more satellite planes are to be received than available inputs from FBC modules. For example, a fully functional receiver for three satellites and 16 transponders cannot be realized with only two FBC receivers (type 1).

In addition, an additional Full Band Capturing technique (type 2) for so-called single-wire solutions has been attempted in the applicant's case study. This technique can be equipped with a complex filter and converter, which keeps the modulation type and modulation content unchanged, but re-allocates the frequency position in the output. For this, the complete input spectrum of the four satellite planes is digitized and after internal signal processing is analogized again and reproduced as a new composite HF frequency spectrum in a frequency multiplex signal line. At the moment, for example, type 2 modules 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 then comprises a total of up to 32 freely selectable satellite channels/transponders. By expanding the output frequency range or lower frequency width of the individual transponders, the number of output channels could also be larger than 24 or 32. This technique does not offer any access to baseband signals (MPEG- TS).

Selection Procedure: In single-wire systems, an unalterable assignment (combination) of single-wire receivers (NIMs) and a fixed output frequency assigned to the receiver of the single-wire array are established, to enable independent operation of the NIMs. individual receivers. In the case of 24 output frequencies with a bandwidth of 50 MHz in the frequency band 950 ... 2150 MHz, there are correspondingly 24 receiver frequency pairs. The tuner on each NIM stays constant on its receive frequency unlike the first example. For the selection of the desired program, the controller evaluates in the single-cable receiver (receiver) available information on the channel occupation of the satellite to be received or of the desired program. Each single-wire NIM communicates for its part in the HF signal conduction via DiSEqC according to the single-wire standard with the single-wire matrix, to communicate to it which of the transponders on the Incoming satellites must be individually connected to their receiving frequency.

A block diagram representing this arrangement is reproduced in figure 4.

In the example, 14 of 24 possible output transponders are shown. Receiver 1-4 frequency combinations (eg RTL); 5 - 6 (eg Tele 5); 7-9 (eg ARD) and 10-14 (eg BBC) respectively receive the same transponder.

In the output spectrum of 950-2150MHz, 14 of 24 possible transponders are occupied. Transponders that appear only once in the FBC type2 input appear in the output, depending on the program desire of the single cable receiver, several times, theoretically up to 24 times with identical content but different frequency.

This situation is shown in FIG. 5 for explanation of a program change. In single-wire receiver number 1, which requires a transponder switch (for example, switch from RTL to ARD, Das Erste) the content of the output spectrum in FBC type 2 is modified upon request by the receiver (number1 ) via DiSEqC command as shown below. After the switchover, receivers 1 as well as fixed 7-9 now receive the same transponder.

All the procedures used so far, as well as the analysis setups described above, use DiSEqC as the communication standard between the receivers (NIM, single-wire receivers, or FBC type 1). The DiSEqC signals are transmitted in this connection on the lines ^{H f .} In the case of using matrix switches, an essential characteristic of the procedures used is that in the signal lines towards the receivers (NIM, FBC type 1) complete satellite plans are always connected without modification of the original content, and the selection of the desired transponders then occurring at the receivers (NIM, FBC type 1). If type 2 FBC modules are used according to the single-wire standard, transponders are reproduced at their inputs, depending on the program wish of the single-wire receivers also multiple times at the output.

The invention is based on the object of providing a method for connecting several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular several satellites, as well as a satellite receiving device for connecting several subscribers to several satellite planes , in particular of several satellites, in which case the switching matrix requirement is reduced.

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

The invention proposes in particular a method for the connection of several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular of several satellites, in which case received signals are converted by a corresponding satellite plane, based on requirements, selectively in each case a signal multiplex, such that frequency ranges, which correspond to requirements, are presented in sequence (with or without frequency ranges used), and frequency ranges, which do not correspond to requirements, are not presented, and in which case a Converting the multiplex signals obtained in this way, an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range is made available to one or more subscribers in each case.

Requirements are usually programmed by a headend administrator for the headend, depending on which programs, i.e. transponders or also frequency ranges, are to be made available to the subscriber, i.e. end user, or are desired or required by it. The requirements are defined in this way during commissioning and are then only rarely defined, when, for example, new transponders have been assigned, or subscribers wish to receive hitherto unused programs.

The invention thus makes it possible to clearly reduce the need for a matrix switcher, which is shown to be particularly advantageous, since in this case HF signals of up to 2150 MHz have to be handled. Therefore complex requirements as regards decoupling measures to be carried out are also reduced. In particular in the case of the reception of satellite planes that occur on different satellites, this effect can be seen even more clearly.

The invention therefore provides for a double conversion, the two conversion steps having to be coordinated with one another. First of all, the satellite signals are converted in a first step by suitable specification into a specific multiplex signal, which is then converted, in correspondence with the multiplex process, again to form corresponding MPEG transport streams.

Ultimately, the concept is based on a previous selection of the frequency ranges to receive, which correspond to transponders, which correspond to a requirement, that is, they were programmed by the administrator based on what programs they want, can or should receive. subscribers or recipients. The method therefore provides for a preselection such that frequency ranges, which do not correspond to any received transponder, are not even taken into account or converted, for example, they may be transponders, which contain coded signals for which key or transponders are not available, which contain signals of a program in a language, which is not consolidated (-> desired/required). In other words, it can also be verified that a frequency compression is carried out, only the frequency ranges, which are of importance, being discussed below. Only these are finally transformed in a further conversion process into the desired MPEG streams. The sequential arrangement (=frequency multiplexing) can arrange both the relevant frequency ranges in an ordered as well as an unordered sequence, and this with or without gaps. An arrangement, which has a pattern structured according to frequencies, can be advantageous, although this is, however, just as undemanding as the fact that the sequence must be continuous. During a first commissioning, however, an attempt should be made to provide a configuration structured according to frequencies. The terminology used in the present application of a sequence thus comprises any arrangement of used or unused frequency ranges, configurations structured according to frequencies being able to be preferred in advantageous embodiments. It remains of course essential that information about the sequence arrangement and during the additional conversion of the thus obtained multiplex signals into an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range is taken into account.

Advantageously the multiplex signal conversion, ie the first conversion step or frequency multiplexing, contains a selection step and a frequency range classification step. In this way, for example, optimized sequences can be configured depending on the requirement. It is possible, for example, to convert all (relevant) transponders of up to 4 satellite planes, for example, from one or also from several satellites, in a sequence or a multiplexing branch, to arrange this, for example, in only one input for the further conversion step (for example, from FBC type1). In this way, more satellite plans can be handled if fewer entries are required. A selection step additionally allows compression, since unnecessary or free frequency ranges do not require bandwidth.

Depending on how the sequence arrangement adapts, for example, on the one hand a "selection procedure" with gap-free filling of/via frequency range(s) can be used/used, which advantageously leads to a consumption of lower power (of the modules). On the other hand, it is also possible to provide a fixed assignment of input frequencies to "receive units", which results in easier control/configuration for the conversion of multiplex signals, for example, in type 1 modules. Conversion of the multiplex signals advantageously occurs in correspondence with the frequency range selection and classification step. In the second conversion step, decoding takes place in this way. The two conversion steps can thus be carried out in a coordinated manner in a particularly simple manner in that, for example, a common controller is used, which carries out the sequential arrangement and can carry out or control the conversion. of the multiplex signals correspondingly.

The multiplex signal conversion advantageously contains a successive filling of available transmission spectra, for example comprising FBC-TYPE2 output spectrum. Although it cannot be fully demonstrated, it seems advantageous to provide a structured frequency arrangement, particularly preferably without gaps, in order to allow lower power consumption, however, only a small measure of control/setting simplification in the configuration seems possible then. second conversion (for example, FBC type 1). It is pointed out once again that the sequential arrangement is so to speak arbitrary, however, structuring and/or filling may be advantageous.

Advantageously, the conversion of the multiplex signals contains a successive filling of available MPEG transport stream channels, which can, for example, also be physically configured as lines. In this description, it must be understood that when speaking of a conduit, reference is made to a specific configuration of the general channel concept. Although, as mentioned, the arbitrary arrangement offers a high measure of flexibility, a flawless structured arrangement of frequency ranges may be desirable, for example, for a first start-up, and "spare zones" may also be reasonable. for future program wishes, when, for example, a multiplex signal is required for each satellite or a multiplex signal is required for a corresponding plane of a satellite.

Advantageously, the multiplex signals are distributed in such a way that the entire frequency spectrum corresponding to the subscriber's requirements is available to each of the subscribers.

Even though certain subscribers may not be able/want/must receive all programs, it is advantageous for the provision of maximum flexibility to make all signals available to all subscribers in correspondence with the scheduling carried out by the administrator. In an example, in which the first conversion step is carried out with modules of type2 and the second conversion step with modules of typeI, the modules being controlled via a common controller, this means that respectively all modules of type 2 are connected to each type 1 module. This results in the advantage of complete flexibility in the selection of the transponder, which is received and demodulated in each case by a type 1 receiving unit. When more multiplex signals are available than inputs per type1, not every satellite can be received with each typel receiver. As a result, the configuration complexity increases in the first place. On the other hand, possible resources cannot be exploited.

According to another aspect of the invention, a satellite reception facility is provided for the connection of several subscribers to several satellites, in particular it is configured and determined to carry out a method as defined above or is done in the procedural claims, which includes:

at least one analog/digital/analog converter with several inputs to make the respective multiplex signals available; and

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

By using at least one analog/digital/analog converter with several inputs, eg four inputs for four satellite planes to make respective multiplex signals available; and at least one analog/digital converter, which is supplied with at least one, in particular all multiplex signals and outputs corresponding MPEG transport streams, it is possible to receive, for example, several satellite plans from one or possibly from several, such that pre-selection at analog/digital/analog converters (eg FBC type 2) relative to reception at one or more additional analog/digital converter(s) (eg FBC type 1) enables complexity of connection diagram or design and routing clearly less.

By using, for example, two analog/digital/analog converters with in each case four inputs for in each case four satellite planes of two satellites to provide corresponding multiplex signals; and at least one analog/digital converter, which is supplied with at least one, in particular all multiplex signals and outputs corresponding MPEG transport streams, it is possible to receive, for example, two satellites, so that prior selection in the analog/digital/analog converters (e.g. FBC type 2) in connection with reception at one or more additional analog/digital converter(s) (e.g. FBC type 1) enables complexity of connection diagram or layout and routing clearly less. It is of course also possible to provide several additional analog/digital converters (eg FCB type 1).

The satellite reception installation advantageously contains at least one analog/digital/analog converter, programmable or controllable via a controller, in particular configured respectively as an FBC-TYPE2 module.

In this sense, it is advantageous for analog/digital/analog converters or analog/digital converters to have lower space and power requirements in FBC technology. The programming occurs, as already mentioned, implemented through a requirements manager, in order to be able to meet the wishes of end users or subscribers. The scheduling can take place on the basis of a fixed assignment of receiving transponders or alternatively on the basis of a selection of transponders to be received, which then offer, optionally in an optimized manner, i.e. structured, and optionally frequency-compressed, multiplex signals . Furthermore, FBC modules are available on the market and are thus inexpensive.

The satellite reception installation advantageously contains at least one analog/digital converter, programmable or controllable via a controller, in particular configured respectively as an FBC-TYPE1 module.

In this case, it is also advantageous for analog/digital/analog converters or analog/digital converters to have a smaller space and power requirement in FBC technology. It is therefore particularly advantageous when both converters consist exclusively of FCB modules, due to which joint control via a common controller determined for this is possible and programming by a headend administrator can be easily represented. .

Although the most diverse configuration and arrangement possibilities exist, such as, for example, a first converter and at least two additional converters or at least two first converters and a second converter, the configuration should be such that first converters or analog/digital/ analog, in particular FBC-TYPE2 modules, are presented in a quantity corresponding to the satellites to be received and second converters or analog/digital converters, in particular FBC-TYPEI modules, in a quantity, which results from the proportion of a quantity of the output channels of a first analog/digital/analog converter or converter, in particular FBC-TYPE2 module and a processing capacity and a second analog/digital converter or converter, in particular FBC-TYPE1 module.

Advantageously, the satellite reception installation contains analog/digital/analog converters, in particular FBC-TYPE2 modules, in a number that corresponds to the number of satellites to be received and analog/digital converters, in particular FBC-TYPE1 modules, in a number , which results from the proportion of a maximum number of output channels of a first analog/digital/analog converter or converter, in particular FBC-TYPE2 module and a processing capacity and a second analog/digital converter or converter, in particular FBC-TYPE1 module. Based on currently available modules for the converters, such that for each type1 module with a processing capacity of four by eight transponders twenty four transponders can be received. Each type2 module has four inputs for each one plane of each one satellite and one output with possible twenty-four transponders. This results in a preferred factor of three, resulting from the possible twenty-four transponders and the eight transponders in each case (modules with two outputs are also possible, however, only with only sixteen possible transponders in each case - this would result in a ratio of preferably one to four)

In the case of maximum 24 transponders in a multiplex signal, this number can be completely transformed into received and demodulated transport streams. Complete flexibility can currently be guaranteed, for example, with up to 24 type 1 FBC receiver units (3 type 1 modules), otherwise not all receivers could be programmed on different transponders of the same satellite. This is true at least in the case of the fixed assignment of satellites to type 2 modules, which, as described above, is a kind of succession formation, which is particularly preferred.

The satellite reception installation preferably contains two or four analog/digital/analog converters, in particular FBC-TYPE2 modules, and three, six, nine or twelve analog/digital converters, in particular FBC TYPE1 modules.

In addition, the satellite receiving device contains a controller, which controls 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, due to to which a DISEqC communication can be avoided, in particular on HF connection lines.

The satellite receiving device additionally contains a controller, which controls the at least two analog/digital/analog converters and the at least one analog/digital converter, as a result of which a DISEqC communication can be avoided, in particular in pipelines HF connection.

The use of a common controller, which controls both converters or both types of FBC module, allows particularly efficient and effective control without complex matrix switching and programming is easy.

possible both in the case of the first start-up, but also in the case of subsequent adaptations by an administrator, for example, when a program selection change has to be carried out, or when by the satellite occurs a transponder change or a new frequency assignment.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention result from the following description of preferred embodiments, in this sense reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which it is fulfilled:

Fig. 1 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the state of the art

Fig. 2 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the state of the art in case of reception of multiple satellites

explicación de la tecnología FBC-TIPO-1.Fig. 3 shows a block diagram for

explanation of FBC-TYPE-1 technology.

bloques para

explicación de la tecnología FBC-TIPO-2 Fig. 5 muestra un diagrama

bloques para

explicación adicional de la tecnología FBC-TIPO-Fig. 6 muestra un diagrama de bloques para la explicación de los principios de la invención, basándose en un ejemplo simplificado, en el cual se representa cómo se gestionan señales de un satélite.Fig. 4 shows a diagram

blocks for

explanation of FBC-TYPE-2 technology Fig. 5 shows a diagram

blocks for

further explanation of FBC technology-TYPE-Fig. 6 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the principles of the invention, based on a simplified example, in which it is represented how signals from a satellite are managed.

Fig. 7 shows another simplified block diagram for the explanation of how signals from one satellite in total can be converted into sixteen MPEG transport streams.

Fig. 8 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the invention, two satellites being received in order to be converted with a second converter into eight MPEG transport streams.

Fig. 9 shows a further block diagram for the explanation of the invention, two satellites being received in order to be able to be converted with three second converters into respectively eight, ie in total twenty-four, MPEG transport streams.

Fig. 10 shows another additional block diagram for the explanation of the invention, receiving two satellites, emitting the multiplexed signals of two first converters through two transmission lines.

output to be able to be converted with four second converters into respectively eight, ie altogether thirty-two, MPEG transport streams.

Fig. 11 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the invention in case of a change of transponders within the spectrum of a satellite.

Fig. 12 shows a block diagram for the explanation of the invention in case of a transponder change between two satellites.

A method for carrying out the invention is described below.

The signals are usually received through one or more satellite dishes, which is/are equipped with LNB. As usual, these are signals that are polarized in four planes (usually called HH, VH, HL, VL). According to an important aspect of the invention, these are subjected to a prior selection of the transponders to be received (in the example of embodiment in

one or FBC type 2 module for receiving a satellite).

In the case of the method for connecting several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular several satellites, signals received by a respective satellite are therefore converted, based on requirements (programmed by a headend manager via the desired program selection), selectively

in each case a multiplex signal (first converter or analog/digital/analog converter), in such a way

which frequency ranges, which correspond to the requirements are presented in sequence, and frequency ranges frequency, which do not correspond to subscriber requirements, are not presented. In other words, a selection and multiplexing of transponders occurs, with the selected transponders being presented at the output of the FBC type2 as an example for the first converter only once. The content of the transponders remains unchanged. The frequencies are set by the controller. The term sequence is to be understood in this document as any arrangement through multiplexing of the transponders with or without structure, with or without gaps.

During subsequent signal handling, a conversion (second converter or analog/digital converter) of the thus obtained multiplex signals into an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, for example by means of an FBC-TYPE1 module, takes place. as an example for a second converter, this MPEG transport stream being made available to one or several subscribers. In other words, the reception of the transponders previously selected by type 2 is provided on a line with a fixed assignment line 1 / input 1 in correspondence with satellite 1. In this way, DiSEqC communication is not required on the connecting line. HF, but rather the control of the reception parameters can occur via a p (central) controller.

This process is schematically represented for a satellite in Fig. 6.

A simplified example is shown in Figure 7 to show the advantageous use of two types of FBC during reception of more than eight transponders of a satellite, or up to four independent satellite planes. The selection of the transponders can take place in any combination from the four incoming satellite plans. The order of the transponders at the output can also be freely configured. Both settings are carried out by the central controller p, depending on how it has been programmed by the administrator in correspondence with the requirements, in order to be able to make available to the subscribers, for example, the programs desired by them, given the case with prior selection by the administrator. Configure the type 1 FBC receiver modules in the same way.

As shown, the previously selected type 2 FCB transponders (usual about 100 transponders are made available on the satellite side in 4 satellite planes) are made available on the same line in the case of the two FBC modules of the satellite. type 1 as multiplex converted signal. In this sense, with currently available FBC type 2, either 24 transponders are issued via one line or 16 transponders via 2 lines - only the first configuration is shown here. The fixed assignment driving 1 / input 1 corresponds to satellite 1, being fulfilled according to the principle provided that a configuration as shown is used.

The maximum possible configuration with current modules for a satellite is 24 transponders in a pipeline. By increasing the efficiency of FBC type 2, more than 24 transponders can also be arranged in one output line in the future. A second operating case not shown here is the use of the second output of the FBC type 2 module. As a result, a maximum of 16 transponders can be converted per output. The number of type 1 modules required for reception results from the ratio of the maximum number of output transponders in type 2 and the number of type 1 receive channels. Currently available modules offer 24 (one lead) or 32 (two leads) output channels (type 2) and eight receive channels (type 1). Thus the current maximum configuration for satellite reception 1 x FBC type 2 is combined with 3 x or 4 x FBC type 1 via one or two signal lines.

Figure 8 shows another simplified example as an embodiment of the invention, to represent the advantageous use of the two types of FBC for the reception of more than four satellite planes with only one receiver of type 1, which itself has , however, only four input pipes. The desired transponders (in this case only a limited number of transponders have been selected for illustration purposes - these correspond to the requirements and were already programmed accordingly by the administrator) of the corresponding satellites or independent satellite charts in the inputs of the FBC modules of type 2 are concentrated on one output line in each case. These output lines are supplied to the inputs (currently up to four) of the receiver type 1. Line 1 corresponds, as in the previous example, to satellite 1, line 2, correspondingly, to satellite 2 The selection from the incoming satellite planes is carried out by the central p-controller. Configure the type 1 FBC receiving module in the same way.

As shown in figure 8, in the case of an output spectrum of 950 .. 2150MHz, 5 out of 24 possible transponders occupy input 1 in the FBC type 1 receiver, while 3 out of 24 possible transponders occupy input 2. in the FBC type 1 receptor.

Figure 9 shows an example as an embodiment of the invention to represent the advantageous use of the two types of FBC for the reception of more than four satellite planes with three receivers of type 1, which themselves have, however , only four input pipes. The desired transponders of the respective individual satellites or satellite planes at the inputs of the type 2 FBC modules are concentrated on one output line in each case. These outlet pipes are supplied to the inputs (currently up to four) of the in this case three type 1 receivers. Line 1 corresponds, as in the previous example, to satellite 1, line 2, correspondingly, to satellite 2. The selection from the arriving satellite planes is carried out by the central controller p. Configure the type 1 FBC receiving module in the same way.

As shown in figure 9, the reception of the transponders is divided due to the FBC modules of type 1 as follows:

number 1 receives transponders 1 - 8 from satellite 1 on line 1; number 2 receives transponders number 9 - 14 from satellite 1 on line 1, as well as transponders number 15 and 16 from satellite 2 on line 2; number 3 receives transponders number 17 - 24 of satellite 2 on line 2. With regard to this simple, advantageous assignment of the reception order, deviating reception combinations are possible as long as each of the FBC modules of the type 1 is intended for the reception of currently a maximum of eight transponders.

In FIG. 10 another example is shown, in which the previously explained is used in combination, using two type 2 modules with respectively two output lines and four type 1 modules and intending to represent a change of transponder on a satellite. The block diagram shows a combination of the examples mentioned above. The reception of 32 out of all possible (approximately 100 per satellite) selected transponders (corresponding to the requirements) of two different satellites or eight independent satellite planes is shown. Line 1 corresponds, as in the previous examples, to satellite 1, line 2 to satellite 2. In this example, type 1 FBC module number 2 receives signals from both satellites, while modules 1 and 3 respectively only receive signals from one satellite. In this connection any combination is possible. From receiving signals from just a single satellite plane from one of the satellites to completely mixed operation. The configuration of the five FBC modules is carried out by the central p-controller.

The maximum possible configuration with the current modules is 4 satellites, or 16 individual satellite planes corresponding to the number of independent input lines in the FBC type 1 module in the case of four inputs in the FBC type 2 module as well. By increasing the number of inputs, more than 4 satellites could be received in the future with this principle.

The person skilled in the art will recognize that the most diverse configurations are possible, such as the multiple (parallel) use of FBC modules of both types in any combination, as well as the renunciation of DiSEqC communication between FBC type 1 and type 2.

The invention proves to be particularly effective when more satellite planes are to be received than inputs on present type 1 FBC modules or more transponders are to be received than a type 1 FBC module can receive.

The example shown shows only the basic principle. In the configuration shown, not all the advantages of the invention result, since the FBC type 1 also has four inputs, with which all the satellite plans that arrive at type 2 could be received.

In addition to the previous examples, the representation according to FIG. 10 in particular also shows an improvement. In this example, reference is made to the activation of the second output a on FBC type 2 modules. The reception of 32 transponders of two different satellites or eight independent satellite planes is represented. Line 1 corresponds, as in the previous examples, to satellite 1, line 2 to satellite 2. In type 2 FBC modules, both outputs are activated. The principle of the invention remains uninfluenced by the activation of additional outputs. In the FBC type 1 module number 3, signals from both satellites are received in this example, while modules 1; 2 and 4 respectively receive only signals from one satellite.

In this sense, for example, the following transponder occupancy can be used, transponder occupancy ^f B ^c type 2 number1 output 1: 16 TP of satellite 1 ^f B ^c type 2 number1 output 2: 2 TP of satellite 1 FBC type 2 number2 output 1: 0 PT of satellite 2 FBC type 2 number2 output 2: 14 PT of satellite 2

The reception of transponders by FBC modules of type 1 is divided as follows: number 1 receives transponders 1 - 8 from satellite 1 on channel 1; number 2 receives transponders number 9-16 from satellite 1 on line 1; number 3 receives transponders number 17 and 18 from satellite 1 on line 1, as well as transponders number 19 to 24 from satellite 2 on line 2; number 4 receives transponders number 25-32 from satellite 2 on line 2. The activation of the corresponding output lines on the FBC type 2 modules is controlled via the central p-controller.

Another example is shown in Figure 11, which is based on a software-assisted solution. Receivers (type 1) are assigned fixed input frequencies. The configuration occurs in such a way that, for example, the first eight output frequencies are received in the spectrum (950 - 2150MHz) always by receiver number 1, the subsequent eight frequencies by receiver number 2, etc., (assumption: type 1 can receive at most eight frequencies). This fixation is fulfilled for the four input pipes.

The skilled person will recognize that both a successive arrangement (for power minimization), as well as a fixed frequency arrangement can be used assigned to type 1 receiving units. Obviously the programming will be carried out correspondingly by the administrator at the headend.

The reception example shown in the previous representations, with the illustration of the strict order of the input transponders at the output of the type 2 FBC modules, is an ideal configuration for headends that must also be modified during the operation of the installation (for example, due to change of transponder 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 output of the corresponding FBC module (type 2) on the same output frequency. The possibly deviated settings for the reception of the new transponder (eg symbol rate) are carried out in receiver type 1 (in this case number 1). The transport stream (in the example TS ³ ) contains the programs of the new transponder after reconfiguration. In order that the interruption-free operation of the installation can be guaranteed, all other configurations are maintained (see FIG. 5/example 1 according to the invention).

If the change of transponder concerns several satellites or type 2 FBC modules, the corresponding output transponders are broadcast on these modules with the same frequency on the line required for this, assigned to the satellite/FBC component. This is shown in FIG. 12. In receiver type 1, the receive frequency is now received at the corresponding (new) input. All configuration settings are carried out by the controller. After the reconfiguration, the transport stream TS ³ contains the programs of the new transponder of satellite 2 (see example 2).

For the initial configuration of such a system (particularly in the case of multi-satellite reception), an orderly configuration of the type 2 FBC modules should be aimed at, among other things, others, the power demand of the receiving modules.

In order to be able to configure a method or an installation according to the invention, it is possible to resort to the following calculations:

number of type 1 FBC receptors: (X)

number of channels per receiver FBC type1: (Y)

inputs per receiver FBC type1: (Z)

amount of type 2 FBC receptors: (A)

outputs of type2 FBC receivers: (B)

input by type2 FBC receiver: (C)

number of channels per output line when only one output of each type2 FBC receiver is active: (M)

number of channels per output lead when multiple outputs of individual type2 FBC receivers are activated: (N)

This results in the following formulas for calculating the maximum number of transponders (T) as well as the maximum possible number of satellites (S) (four input lines each) or individual satellite planes (E) that can be received.

T = X * Y for M >= X * Y (activates only one output of each type2 FBC receiver)

T = X * Y for B * N >= X * Y (activates multiple outputs of individual type2 FBC receivers)

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

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

In summary, the invention can dramatically reduce the need for complex satellite matrix switching, which can lead to significant savings potential as well as faster processing. Additional damping measures are only necessary to a small extent.

Claims (11)

1. Method for the connection of several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular of several satellites, in which in a first conversion step signals received from the respective satellites are converted, based on subscriber requirements, selectively in each one of them in a multiplex signal, such that frequency ranges, which correspond to subscriber requirements, are present in a signal line in the frequency multiplex, and frequency ranges, which do not correspond to any subscriber requirements , are not present in it, and in a second conversion step, in which a conversion of the multiplex signals obtained in this way takes place in each case an MPEG transport stream corresponding to a frequency range, which is made available to one or more subscribers, containing the first conversion step, to make the corresponding multiplex signals available, an analog/digital/analog conversion with the following steps based on Full-Band Capturing, FCB, type 2 receiver technology: digitization of the input spectrum of four satellite planes of the respective satellite, signal processing as well as analogization again and reproduction as a newly composed HF frequency spectrum in a signal line in the frequency multiplex, and carrying out in the second conversion step an analog/digital conversion of at least one, in particular all the multiplex signals and emitting respective MPEG transport streams, digitizing by means of Full-Band Capturing, FBC, type 1 receiver technology the spectra of input of four satellite planes arriving and being broadcast, after internal signal processing, as digital baseband transport streams. Method according to claim 1, in which the multiplex signal conversion of the first conversion step contains a selection step and a frequency range classification, in particular a frequency-structured arrangement in succession. Method according to claim 2, in which the conversion of the multiplex signals of the second conversion step occurs in correspondence with the frequency range selection and classification step. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the multiplex signal conversion of the first conversion step comprises a successive filling of available transmission spectra. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 4, in which the conversion of the multiplex signals in the first conversion step comprises a successive filling of available MPEG transport stream channels or lines. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 5, in which the multiplex signals are distributed in such a way that the entire frequency spectrum corresponding to the requirements remains at the disposal of each subscriber. Satellite receiving installation for connecting several subscribers to several satellite planes, in particular several satellites, equipped and determined to carry out a method according to one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: at least one, in particular at least two first analog/digital/analog converters for providing the respective multiplex signals of the first conversion step, the at least one, in particular the at least two analog/digital/converters being configured/configured as an FBC-TYPE2 module, each FBC type 2 module being configured in such a way that it digitizes, signal-processes and again analogizes the input spectrum of four satellite planes, and reproduces it as a newly composed HF frequency spectrum on a signal conduction in the frequency multiplex; and at least one, in particular at least two second analog/digital converters, which is/are supplied with at least one respectively, in particular all multiplex signals and output respective MPEG transport streams of the second conversion step, the configured/configured at least one, in particular the at least two analog/digital converters, each as FBC-TYPE1 module, each FBC type 1 module being configured in such a way that it digitizes the input spectra of four incoming satellite planes and, after processing internal signal source, it outputs them as digital baseband transport streams. Satellite reception installation according to claim 7, in which the at least one, in particular the at least two first analog/digital/analog converters is/are configured in a programmable or controllable manner via a controller. Satellite reception installation according to claim 7 or 8, in which the at least one, in particular the at least two second analog/digital converters is/are configured in a programmable or controllable manner via a controller. 10. Satellite reception installation according to one of the preceding claims 7 to 9, comprising first analog/digital/analog converters in an amount corresponding to the satellites to be received and second analog/digital converters in an amount resulting from the ratio of a maximum number of the output channels of a first analog/digital/analog converter and a processing power of an analog/digital converter. Satellite reception installation according to one of the preceding claims 7 to 10, further comprising a controller, which controls at least one, in particular the at least two first analog/digital/analog converters and the at least one , in particular the at least two second analog/digital converters, due to which a DISEqC communication on HF feeder lines can be avoided.