FR3100950A3 - "Device for the distribution by cable of a television signal in a reception installation" - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for distributing a radiofrequency signal from an input cable coming from a satellite or terrestrial antenna, preamplified or not, to several coaxial or RJ45 outputs (S1-S7). This device comprises an input box (1,1 ', 3), which can be chained without cable with one or more downstream boxes, identical or different. None of the enclosures contain AC power. The input box receives a DC extra low voltage (110) from an external power supply (10). It injects it into the input connector (E1) via an injection circuit (12) protecting the outputs of this supply voltage, while transmitting to the input connector the direct control voltages that can arrive from said outputs. . Several boxes In a first version, the side input (E1) of a box (1) is directly connectable to a side output (S3) of an identical box. In a second version, the input box (3) amplifies the signal to be distributed. The assembly is compact, and easily housed on the DIN rail of a telecoms cabinet, with its outputs on the same side. Figure: Fig. 9

Description

"Device for the distribution by cable of a television signal in a reception installation"

The invention relates to a radiofrequency signal distribution device from an input cable coming from a satellite or terrestrial antenna, preamplified or not, to several coaxial or RJ45 outputs. This device comprises an input box, which can be chained without cable with one or more downstream boxes, identical or different. None of the enclosures contain AC power. The input box receives very low DC voltage from an external power supply. It injects it into the input connector via an injection circuit protecting the outputs of this supply voltage, while transmitting to the input connector the direct control voltages which can arrive from said outputs. Several boxes

In a first version, the side inlet of a box is directly connectable to a side outlet of an identical box. In a second version, the input box amplifies the signal to be distributed. The assembly is compact, and easily housed on the DIN rail of a telecoms cabinet, with all its outputs on the same side.

State of the art

Reception of a radiofrequency signal in a building, typically a television signal, takes place in several ways. For the reception of a terrestrial signal, currently called "TNT" for Terrestrial Digital Television, the reception is done by an antenna based on metal rods arranged in different ways, the most common being a "rake" arrangement. For a signal coming from a geostationary satellite, the reception is done by a surface antenna, generally parabolic, which receives the wave and concentrates it towards a reception head. These antennas are generally mounted outside the premises, on the roof or on a balcony or even in an attic or a room at the top of the building.

The so-called input signal is then transmitted by an input cable, generally coaxial, to the interior of the building where it is received and decoded by a set-top box, which thus extracts the content and transmits it to a television or to another multimedia device.

In the event that the same antenna is used for several receiving stations, or even several different housings, a distribution box is inserted into the circuit, which carries a coaxial input connector which receives the input signal and several coaxial output connectors. which distributes it to several cables going to the various stations or housing.

Since the input cable is generally of a certain length, a preamplifier is often provided at the level of the antenna, which amplifies the signal as close as possible to the antenna to allow its transmission to the interior of the building without loss of additional quality.

For a satellite antenna, the set-top box supplies the reception head with a direct voltage via the input cable to control, which is used to control different settings of the reception head, typically 13V or 18V depending on the polarization to order. This DC voltage is also used by the reception head to supply a preamplifier which is integrated therein.

For a terrestrial antenna, that is to say intended to receive a terrestrial signal more powerful than a satellite signal, the preamplifier is not systematically necessary depending on the reception conditions. When used, it is added in addition to the antenna and mounted in series between the antenna and the input cable. If no power supply is available at the antenna, a power supply is installed inside the premises which supplies the preamplifier through the input cable, using an injection circuit which applies a direct voltage. to the input cable in the direction of the antenna while blocking its propagation in the direction of the set-top box.

Typically, this power supply has the form of a box which is connected to the mains, in 110V or 230V alternating voltage. This box includes a rectifier and voltage conversion circuit to produce a very low direct voltage, typically 12V. This unit integrates the injection circuit and carries input and output coaxial connectors: on the one hand at the input to connect the input cable through which it receives the input radio frequency signal and sends the voltage to power supply, and on the other hand at output to distribute the signal received to the decoder box without applying said supply voltage thereto.

The installation of these various elements represents a certain work, occupies a not insignificant space inside the premises and represents the risk of breakdowns for example by bad contacts.

An aim of the invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the state of the art, and in particular to allow greater flexibility of use and installation, better compactness and better robustness.

Presentation of the invention

The invention proposes a device for distributing an input signal of radio type, received by an input cable from at least one antenna, typically of the terrestrial radio wave reception antenna type or wave reception antenna. Hertzian from a satellite, and in particular from reception of television programs, directly or via a preamplifier. When it exists, this preamplifier is designed to amplify the signal from the antenna so as to provide sufficient quality at the level of said distribution device, and in general no more.

According to the invention, this device comprises at least one input box which includes:

• at least one signal input connector, arranged to be connected to the input cable;
• a plurality of output connectors, each arranged to be connected to a flexible cable, which are operatively connected to the signal input connector so as to distribute the input signal as an output signal through each of said connectors Release ;
• a power connector, designed to receive a very low voltage, in particular continuous and for example between 5V and 24V, and typically equal to 12V (for example by connection with a flexible cable coming from a power supply unit connected to the mains ); and
• a so-called pass-through injection circuit, designed for:
  • supply the input connector with a very low direct voltage, supplied by the power connector (preferably only by it) and allowing the preamplifier to be powered through the input cable,
  • preventing said DC supply voltage from propagating to the output connectors, and
  • allow a very low direct control voltage, coming from one or more of the output connectors, to propagate towards the input connector to supply the preamplifier and control a satellite head (typically by a control voltage coming from a satellite signal decoding box, for example 13V or 18V).

A single device is thus obtained capable of producing a multiple distribution which is both compatible with several types of antennas and can be accommodated in a small space within an electrical panel or a technical duct. It is thus possible to produce the same product which can be sold and installed both for a satellite antenna and for a terrestrial antenna, and will not require modification in the event of a subsequent change of antenna. Such a box will make it possible to perform all the functions necessary for this in a very small footprint.

In particular, this input box can be made very compactly by including no voltage converter capable of converting from the mains (230V or 110V alternating) to very low direct voltage. Preferably, it contains no such voltage converter, or no rectifier, or neither.

According to a particular feature of the invention, at least one of the output connectors forms a daisy-chaining connector which is arranged to allow a rigid connection (without flexible cable) with an input connector of a so-called downstream box to supply it with the signal. input, said downstream housing being fixed integrally and contiguously to the input housing.

Such a downstream box is for example a box comprising other functions. Preferably, this downstream box is a distribution box receiving said input signal via an input connector and itself having several output connectors distributing said input signal.

According to one feature, the chaining connector of the input box is designed to be able to be connected with the input connector of a downstream box of the same type as said input box.

It is thus possible to carry out a distribution with a greater number of outputs, without intermediate connection by flexible cable, and therefore with better reliability and better compactness than if it was necessary to connect several boxes by flexible cables, which present risks. poor contacts and require a large space because of the large radii of curvature so as not to damage them.

According to one feature, the injection circuit comprises at least:

• several output branches mounted in parallel and all connected to the input connectors, each branch distributing one of the outputs and including at least one output capacitor and a unidirectional return circuit mounted in parallel, said output capacitance being determined to pass a radio frequency signal from the input connector to said output, and said return unidirectional circuit being oriented to pass a continuous control current from said output to said input connector, and
• a supply branch allowing the passage of a continuous supply current from the supply connector to the input connector, said supply branch including at least one protection switch arranged to detect the passage of a current short-circuit in the input connector and interrupt it in the event of such detection.

A circuit is thus obtained which, using the same set of components, performs both injection and distribution: the unidirectional return circuits allow the transmission to the antenna of the control signals coming from all the outputs, without signals coming from one exit cannot go back to another exit. In each output branch, the output capacitor allows the passage of the radio frequency signal to the output while blocking the direct current coming from the power connector. In the power branch, the protection switch makes it possible to bring the power supply directly to the input connector to power a possible antenna preamplifier, and opens to interrupt this function in the event of 'a short-circuit between the two poles of the input connector, or in the case of a "dry" antenna, that is to say without a preamplifier, the circuit of which would have a resistance that is too low or even zero.

Such an injection circuit, here functionally defined by simple characteristics, can be improved and made more complex by a person skilled in the art on the basis of his knowledge, in carrying out these basic functions or by adding other functions which do not prevent said basic functions.

This circuit thus makes it possible to directly use the same distribution device for different types of antennas, allowing both a satellite antenna and an amplified terrestrial or dry terrestrial antenna.

Typically, the inlet box and the possible downstream box or boxes are arranged to be fixed on the same rail with two longitudinal wings symmetrical to one another called high and low, which are parallel to the rail and offset on the side opposite to the fixing side of said fixing. said rail on the front side, in particular of the "DIN rail" type. Preferably, said input box and / or one or more of said downstream boxes each have one or more output connectors positioned on one or more of the top, front or bottom faces of said box.

It is thus possible to easily integrate the input box into a conventional electrical box, and even to have several boxes joined together in a compact manner on the same rail while taking advantage of the output connectors on either side of the this rail.

Optionally, the input box has at least a first signal input connector and a second input connector, both operatively connected to the output connectors to achieve satellite-terrestrial coupling;

said first signal input connector being arranged to be supplied by the passing injection circuit and to be connected to a terrestrial wave reception antenna, and

said second signal input connector being arranged to be connected to an antenna for receiving satellite waves.

According to one embodiment, the signal input connector (s) of the input box is of a coaxial type (in particular of the "F" type) and at least one box, from among the input box and the one (s). any downstream boxes, has output connectors which are all of the coaxial type (in particular of the "F" type).

Typically, these connectors are protruding, that is to say of the "female" type since this type is understood to apply to the central connector.

According to another embodiment, the signal input connector (s) of the input box is of a coaxial type of the "F" type, and at least one box, among the input box and the possible one or more. downstream boxes, has output connectors which are all of the modular clip-on type with multicontacts arranged in parallel with the “RJxx” family (in particular of the “RJ45” type).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the input box is substantially parallelepiped and is arranged to be fixed in a standardized manner on a support of "DIN rail" type by a so-called rear face, and said box also has:

• two lateral faces transverse to the axis of the rail, at least one of which is designed to be able to be attached to a lateral face of another box mounted on the same rail, and
• a front face opposite the rear face,
• a high face directed upwards and a lower face directed downwards when the rail is mounted horizontally on a vertical wall;

In this embodiment, said housing comprises an injection circuit designed to receive a very low direct voltage supply from the supply connector and to supply the preamplifier with the same voltage.

In a first version of this embodiment, this input box also has:

• on a side face of the housing called the upstream face: one or more signal input connectors, of the "F" type coaxial type, arranged projecting or set back from said upstream face;
• on a top or bottom face of the housing, or both: a plurality of output connectors which occupy the entire free length of said face, and are all of the same type, which type is either "F" type coaxial either "RJ45";
• on the other side face of the input box, called the downstream face: at least one output connector of the "F" type coaxial type (for example only one), which is designed for:
  • be able to receive and connect by axial translation to a signal input connector of a downstream box of the same type as the input box, mounted on the same rail contiguous to said input box, and thus forming a connector chaining, or
  • be able to receive and connect to a flexible cable, directly or through a gender-changing device.

More particularly, the upstream side face carries at least one projecting signal input connector with fixing thread;

and in that the daisy-chaining connector is arranged in a housing set back from the downstream side face, so as to be able to accommodate an input connector of the same type by axial insertion, said housing being compatible with a type changer " F "in double protrusion, that is to say female-female.

This chaining connector can then be used as a normal output connector, by connecting a flexible cable to it by means of a double protruding gender changer.

According to a preferred option, combinable with Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises an amplification circuit which receives the input signal and amplifies it before transmitting it to the connectors of exit.

It thus becomes possible to significantly increase the number of outputs and the distance from their receiver boxes, without adding new active elements in the distribution circuit, nor increasing the size and risk of breakdowns.

In a second version of this embodiment, this input box also has:

• a side face of the housing called the upstream face of a substantially planar shape;
• on a lower face of the housing: one or more "F" type coaxial type signal input connectors and a plurality of output connectors which occupy the entire free length of said face, said output connectors all being d 'the same type which is either "F" or "RJ45" type coaxial;
• on the other side face of the so-called downstream input box: at least one "F" type coaxial type output connector (for example only one), which is designed for:
  • be able to receive and connect by axial translation, directly or via a gender changer, to a signal input connector of a downstream box formed by an input box of the first version, mounted on the same rail contiguous to said input box, and thus forming a chaining connector, or
  • be able to receive and connect to a flexible cable, directly or via a gender-changing device (FF3).

In this second version, an upstream box is thus obtained which does not require lateral access for its input cable, and occupies less space along the length of the rail. This second version upstream box can then itself, if necessary, receive one or more boxes of the first version as a chaining suite.

Optionally, the downstream side face also carries an additional so-called end output connector, mounted set back from said face and which can be connected with a connector preferably of the "F" type, thus providing one or more additional usable output connectors. with to connect a flexible cable when the input box is used alone or as a downstream box at the end of the chaining.

According to another option, the input box has a fixing base provided for a DIN rail and which protrudes from the bottom face transversely to the axis of the rail, said bottom face thus being set back from said fixing base towards the bottom. inside the rail, with a gap provided to accommodate the protrusion length of the output connectors when they are of a protruding threaded barrel "F" type coaxial type.

Preferably, the part of the fixing base which protrudes from the lower face forms a versatile fixing shoe which is provided with at least one or two holes allowing the entry box to be fixed on a support by screws or rivets, and the rear face of the housing carries at least one overhanging flanged hole which has an inlet opening of a screw head which communicates with a narrower sized groove to allow said screw to slide therein while retaining its head.

Various embodiments of the invention are provided, integrating, according to all of their possible combinations, the various optional features set out here.

Other features and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description of an implementation mode which is in no way limiting, and from the appended drawings in which:

is a functional diagram which illustrates a reception installation by terrestrial antenna according to the prior art;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a reception installation by terrestrial or satellite antenna using a distribution device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a variant of the injection circuit within the distribution device according to the invention, which can be applied to the other embodiments, options and particularities stated here;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a distribution device according to an exemplary so-called active embodiment, with distribution amplification;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a distribution device according to an exemplary embodiment comprising an active input box with 5 outputs, chained with a downstream passive distribution box with 7 outputs;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a distribution device according to an exemplary embodiment comprising two identical input boxes, passive and with 3 outputs and free top face, chained together providing a total of 5 outputs;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a distribution device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in an amplified version and with several outputs on the downstream side face;

is a functional diagram which illustrates a distribution device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, in an amplified version and with several inputs on the upstream side face;

is a perspective view to scale which illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the first version, constituting an actual product of a first model, which can be used as an input box or as a downstream box, in a passive configuration with input on the upstream side face, outputs via two F-type coaxial connectors on a single bottom face, and chaining output on the downstream face via a coaxial connector;

is a scale illustration, in plan on six sides, of the first version housing of FIG. 9;

is a scale illustration, in six-sided plan, of an exemplary embodiment of the second version, constituting an actual product of a second model, in an active configuration with one input and two outputs by coaxial connectors of type F on a single bottom face, and chaining output on the downstream face by a coaxial connector;

is a scale illustration, in plan on five sides and in perspective, of an exemplary embodiment of the second version, constituting an actual product of a third model, which can be used as an input box or as a downstream box, in a passive configuration with input on the upstream side face, with outputs via two modular RJ45 multicontact connectors on a single bottom face, and chaining output on the downstream face via a coaxial connector;

is a perspective view to scale which illustrates the components of a distribution device according to an example of the preferred embodiment comprising an active input box of the second model (Fig. 12) as an upstream box, chained with two identical passive input boxes of the second model (Fig. 10) used as downstream boxes;

is a perspective view to scale which illustrates the device of FIG. 13 once assembled and mounted on the same DIN rail;

is a photo which illustrates in perspective a distribution device with two passive input boxes chained together: an upstream box of the first model, passive with low outputs by coaxial connectors, and a downstream box of the third model, passive with low RJ45 outputs;

is a plan view illustrating a telecommunications box of a common model for individual housing, equipped with a single box of the third model, passive with two RJ45 outputs;

is a view illustrating the same box equipped with two identical boxes of the third model chained together, passive with two RJ45 outputs;

is a view illustrating the same box equipped with a single box of the first model, active with low input and two coaxial outputs;

is a view illustrating the same box equipped with a box of the first model, active with low input and two coaxial outputs as an upstream box, to which is chained as downstream box a box of the second model, passive with two coaxial outputs.

In Fig.1 is illustrated a conventional installation for receiving terrestrial signals, with distribution to two different receivers 61, 61 ', each comprising a TNT decoding box 71, 71'.

The terrestrial antenna 81 is typically of the rake type. It receives the wireless signal 817, and converts it into a local electrical signal 818. To maintain the quality of the signal received despite the length of the cable and / or the number of outlets to be served, this local signal 818 is amplified by the preamplifier 811, into an input signal 819. This signal 819 runs through the input cable 80 to the interior of the premises 800.

To power this preamplifier 811, the coaxial input cable 80 arrives on a power supply unit 9, which receives the input signal 819 to transmit it 8191 to the receiver (s) 71, 71 'via a distribution box 5. This power supply box 9 contains a converter circuit 91 which generates a DC supply voltage to very low voltage 12V from the 230V AC voltage of the 230V sector. This power supply unit 9 contains an injection circuit 92, which injects this supply voltage 99 into the input cable without it propagating towards the receivers. This injection circuit 92 is formed by an inductor which applies the supply voltage in a smooth manner to the input cable 80, and a capacitor which isolates the downstream circuit 5, 71 from the direct voltage 99 injected towards the antenna. 81.

All of these components, the power supply 9 and the distributor 5, represent a significant size, which cannot be reduced beyond a certain limit simply because of the nature of the circuits and the constraints imposed by the connection and fragility of coaxial cables. In addition, such an injection circuit is incompatible with the operation of conventional satellite antennas. Indeed, the satellite antennas are very often controlled from the receiver box, for example to supply the reception head and switch the polarization (depending on the channel to be received), by means of a direct voltage which is sent by the receiver to the receiver. 'antenna. An installation as illustrated in Fig. 1 must therefore be modified in order to be able to use a satellite antenna in addition to or in place of the terrestrial antenna 91.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the distribution device of the invention receives the preamplified signal 819 directly, via the input cable from at least one antenna, via a preamplifier (which is arranged to amplify the signal from the antenna so as to provide sufficient quality at the level of said distribution device, in general no more), typically of the terrestrial Hertzian wave reception antenna type or of the Hertzian wave reception antenna from a satellite, and including reception of television programs.

This input box 1 includes:

• a signal input connector E1, which is connected to the input cable 80;
• a plurality of output connectors S1, S2, S3, each arranged to be connected to a flexible cable, which are operatively connected to the signal input connector E1 so as to redistribute the input signal 819 at the output 8191;
• a power supply connector E0, which receives from the outside a very low voltage 110 DC.

This E0 power connector is of a conventional type for this type of voltage, and receives here by a flexible wire of the 12VDC produced by an external power supply unit, of a conventional type providing 12VDC from the 230VAC mains or 110VAC.

The input box 1 thus does not contain a mains to very low voltage converter, and preferably no voltage converter or no rectifier or neither of the two.

This input box 1 uses directly and exclusively the voltage received by the power supply connector E0 to supply the preamplifier 811, by means of a circuit which could be described as a "passing injection circuit". It includes components known for a conventional injection circuit in this field, for example the inductance and the insulation capacitor which prevents the supply voltage 110 from propagating to the outputs S1, S2, S3, and in particular to the TNT receiver (s) 71. Typically, each output also comprises a unidirectional circuit and a capacitor, which are used to authorize the input of the control signals 820 coming from an output S3 without their being reflected on the other outputs. S1 and S2.

But it also includes a unidirectional circuit which is arranged to allow the passage of a continuous current 820 from said outputs S1, S2, S3 to the input connector E1. This unidirectional injection circuit is illustrated here by the diagram of a diode, and can be produced in this way, but it can also use other different or more complex arrangements within the reach of those skilled in the art.

In general, all the circuits of the input box 1 are shown here diagrammatically, but also include the various components and sub-assemblies which are known to those skilled in the art to ensure the operational functioning of the functions described here. , for example for the unidirectional circuit and for the distribution circuits or even for the amplifiers 13 described below.

As illustrated in this figure, it is thus possible to use a terrestrial antenna 81 requiring a power supply in its input cable 80 but not in its distribution circuit, but also a satellite antenna 82 controlled and supplied 820 from the receiver box 72. , with the same distribution installation and without modification.

In this figure, the internal circuit diagram of the housing is illustrated in a basic version, which does not exclude any of the improvements known to those skilled in the art for each of the functions described.

In particular, FIG. 3 provides a more complete version of the injection circuit 12, which can itself be applied to the various embodiments, options and particularities set out here. In this version, the isolation function which prevents the supply current 110 from propagating to the outputs is offset and multiplied into several output branches which each distribute one of the outputs S1, S2, S3. Each of these branches comprises a diode or a one-way return circuit 121d allowing the reception of a control signal 820 from the output, and also prevents the control signal coming from one output from going back to the other outputs. Each of these return diodes 121d is doubled in parallel by an output capacitor 121c, which maintains the passage of the input radiofrequency signal to this output.

The diode in the power supply branch avoids current feedback from the control signals 820 to the power supply port E0, and can replace the inductor of the circuit of Fig. 2.

A protection switch or "polyswitch" 120 is inserted in series between the input connector E1 and the rest of the circuit, protects the entire installation against short circuits that may occur in the antenna and the cable input 80.

Fig.4 to Fig.8 illustrate other exemplary embodiments which will only be described in terms of their differences.

In Fig. 4, the box 1 also incorporates an additional amplifier 13, which increases the power of the signal 819 before presenting it 8191 at the output, to compensate for the losses that may be caused downstream by the number of output connectors S1, S2 , S3, S4 and / or by cable lengths to the receivers.

It thus forms a so-called active device, with the same size as a simple passive distributor and without power supply, and without having more components to install, which thus makes it possible to achieve a much wider distribution, including even in cascade from a main technical room to a plurality of level distribution points themselves serving several dwellings or receivers each.

In FIG. 5, the input box 1 is of the active type and has high and low outputs which occupy all of its upper and lower faces, here at the rate of two outputs for each. On its downstream side face, this inlet box 1 is chained with a downstream box 2 of a different type, which is here of the passive type carries in this example seven outlets, here four distributed on the top and bottom faces and three on its downstream side face.

In Fig. 6, the input box 1 is passive and has main outputs which occupy only its bottom face, in its entirety, here two outputs S1 and S2. On its downstream side face, this inlet box 1 is chained with a downstream box 1 ′ of the same type. The daisy-chaining output S3 of the input box is set back so as to be able to receive the input connector E1 'of the downstream box 1', that is to say a projecting (female) type "F" coaxial connector. with fixing thread, possibly without using this thread. This assembly therefore makes it possible to obtain four low outputs S1, S2, S1 ', S2', and possibly a fifth lateral output S3 'by using an adapter or a type changer FF3.

In this figure is illustrated an embodiment with only two low outputs S1 and S2 and a lateral chaining output S3 (in dotted lines on the hidden side face).

The input connector E1 and the two low output connectors S1 and S2 are screw-type "F" type coaxial connectors. The S3 output is a male "F" type coaxial connector (set back from the side concerned). Preferably, this male connector S3 has a thread allowing the connection of an adapter or of a female-female type "F" type changer, that is to say in double protrusion, thanks to which it is possible to connect and secure a third flexible cable.

In Fig. 7, the device is of the active type and the downstream side face Fdown carries several output connectors S3 and S4. One S3 is intended to serve as a chaining output, and the other thus provides an additional output connector, or end. All these side connectors S3, S4 are arranged set back from the downstream face, so as not to interfere with the mounting of a downstream housing. When this downstream face Fdown is free, it is thus possible to have more outputs. If this additional output S4 is of the RJ45 type, it is placed completely back. If it is a coaxial connector, it is produced for example in the form of a recessed "F" male type, which can receive an adapter or a female-female gender changer providing a female connector at the output. projection compatible with a flexible cable with standard "F" plug.

In Fig. 8, the device is of the active type and the upstream side face Fup carries two input connectors E1, E2, both connected to the injection circuit. It is thus possible to permanently connect two sources, for example a terrestrial antenna and a satellite antenna, and to distribute to the various outputs S1, S2, S3 all the input signals originating from these two sources.

In Fig. 9 is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of the first version with side entry, in the form of a real product of a first model, forming a passive housing and without amplification.

It has two outputs S1 and S2 on the bottom face Fb, none on the top face Fh, and a lateral chaining outlet S3 illustrated in dotted lines on the hidden side face forming the downstream face Fdown. The input connector E1 and the two low output connectors S1 and S2 are screw-type "F" type coaxial connectors. The S3 output is a male "F" type coaxial connector (recessed). Preferably, this male connector S3 is of the smooth type and allows the connection of an adapter or of a female-female gender changer (in double protrusion) of the "F" type, thanks to which it is possible to connect and fix a third flexible cable if no downstream box is chained to it.

The box is mounted on a mounted on a DIN rail Rd shown in dotted lines, thanks to a ratchet lock 102 opposed to two hooks 101.

The box does not include a power supply conversion circuit, and is supplied by a power supply connector E0 carried by the upstream side face Fup.

Fig. 10 illustrates this second model in a dimensioned plan on six sides. As can be seen, the rear face Far has a blind hole forming a fixing hole 1031. This hole is provided with an overhanging rim, surrounding an opening large enough to allow the head of a screw to pass and being extended by a oblong slot sized to accommodate this head and retain it by its overhang.

In the event that the box is not fixed on a DIN rail, it is thus possible to conveniently fix it on a flat surface of a switchboard, as follows. We fix a protruding screw on the board, on which we hang the box by inserting the head of this screw in the fixing hole 1031, before sliding it down to trap the screw behind its overhang. It is then sufficient to completely fix the box on the switchboard with two screws through the holes 1030 carried by the shoe 103

In Fig. 11 is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of the first version, in the form of a real product of a first model, forming an active box, that is to say with amplification.

This device has the same shape as the first model, and will be described only in its differences. The box itself is larger to accommodate three connectors on its lower face Fb: an E0 type F coaxial input connector, in addition to two S1 and S2 output connectors, here type F coaxial. box is also provided with these two output connectors S1 and S2 of RJ45 type.

As in the first and third models, the chain output S3 is always set back on the downstream side face Fdown.

In Fig. 12 is illustrated an exemplary embodiment of the first version with side entry, in the form of an actual product of a third model, which forms a variant of the first model and will be described only in its differences. In this box, the two outputs S1 and S2 are each formed by a modular multicontact female socket, of the RJ45 type.

Fig.13 and Fig.14 illustrate an exemplary embodiment, in the form of an assembly combining three chained input boxes, of the first and the second version. An input box 3 of the second version forms the upstream box of the assembly, and amplifies the signal 819 received. This is a case of the second model identical to that of Fig. 11. Its input connector E1 is arranged on the bottom face Fb, as are its two main outputs S1 and S2.

Two input boxes 1 'and 1 "form downstream boxes which are chained in series with the upstream box 1. They are both of the first version, identical to the box of the first model in Fig. 10, with their connector d. 'input E1', E1 "located on their upstream side face Fup ', Fup", and which for each one carries out the chaining with the chaining connector S3, S3' of the previous box.

Note that the upstream box 3 (second version, second model) thus has a greater length than the downstream boxes (first version) for the same number of outlets, but its upstream side face (on the left in the figure) is thus completely flat and free of coaxial input connectors, receiving at most only the power connector which is much more compact, which makes it possible for example to position it against the wall of the electrical box and at the left end of the DIN rail, since there is no need to bring the input cable there (generally of the coaxial type and which cannot bend much).

In Fig. 15 is illustrated a passive distribution assembly which can be mounted on a DIN rail as before. This assembly comprises an input box 1 upstream, of the first version type first model with lateral input E1 and two low outputs with "F" type coaxial connectors. This upstream box 1 is chained by its chaining connector with a first version box 1, but of the third model, the low output connectors of which are both of the RJ45 type.

In this figure, the shoe 103 of the two housings bears holes 1030 also allowing fixing by screwing to any type of support.

As will be understood, according to the needs in terms of numbers of outputs, a multitude of configurations can be produced with only a range comprising a few components, for example the first, second and third models, or even with a single model.

For example with a basic component with two bass outputs and a daisy-chaining output, it suffices to use for example 1, 2 or 3 components to obtain a set with 3, 5 or 7 amplified outputs which integrates the power supply of a terrestrial antenna preamplifier without preventing the use of a satellite antenna.

By supplementing or replacing this component with a first version input box with RJ45 outputs, such as box 1 'in Fig. 15, a range is obtained which makes it possible to provide these outputs in RJ45 connectors, for all outputs or mixed at will.

By completing the range with an input box of the type of the second version, it is thus possible to optimize the use of the space of an electrical box by occupying the entire length of the DIN rail, with all the inputs and outputs accessible by the top or bottom faces of the modules.

In Illustrated is a use of a case of the third model 1 ′, passive with side entry, installed in a telecommunication cabinet C1 of a common model for an individual housing.

This C1 box contains one (or optionally several) C10 230V AC power supply sockets. It also contains a DIN type rail Rd, on which is fixed the distribution box of the third model 1 '. The C1 box also contains a C12 terminal strip carrying RJ45 ports, which are connected to C61 cables that lead to wall outlets within the housing 800.

The box 1 ′ is received by its power connector E0 a voltage 12V from a power supply box 10 connected to the mains socket C10 of the box. Its input connector E1 receives the input signal through the input cable 80. Its output connectors S1 and S2 receive C11 type RJ45-RJ45 jumpers which distribute the output signal to two ports of the C12 strip of the box.

As illustrated in FIG. 17, the same box 1 ′ can be chained with another box of the same type as a downstream box. Four outputs are thus obtained, which distribute the output signal to four ports of the C12 strip.

In Fig. 18 is illustrated a use of a box of the second model 3, active with low input E1 and coaxial outputs S1 and S2, installed in the same telecommunications box C1. In this example, one S1 of the outputs distributes the output signal amplified by a flexible coaxial cable 61, for example to a receiver or even to another housing. The other S2 output receives a "balun" type cord C11 ', which connects the coaxial output with a port of the C12 strip.

As illustrated in FIG. 19, the same active upstream box 3 can be supplemented by a downstream box 1, here of the first passive model with side entry, which is chained to its output S3 by its input connector E1 '. It is thus possible to distribute the output signal to two additional ports of the bar C12, by two additional "balun" straps C11 '.

As can be seen, the planar shape of the upstream side face Fup of the upstream box 3 receives only the power connector, which takes up little space. Its E1 coaxial input connector is on the bottom side, where there is more space available, and on which the coaxial output connectors are also located. It is thus possible to place the upstream box 3 very close to the left wall of the box C1.

In addition, it will be noted that the arrangement of the output connectors exclusively on the lower face Fb makes it possible to completely free the upper face Fh and to shift the box upwards with respect to the rail Rd, without having any problem of bulk with the components. located above, here the C10 socket outlets.

The available space is therefore used optimally, both horizontally (sideways) and vertically.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous modifications can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (15)

Device for distributing an input signal (819) of the radio type, received by an input cable (80) from at least one receiving antenna (811, 821) directly or through a preamplifier ( 811, 821),
characterized in that it comprises at least one input box (1, 1 ', 3, 4) which includes:

• at least one signal input connector (E1), arranged to be connected to the input cable (80);
• a plurality of output connectors (S1, S2, S3), each arranged to be connected to a flexible cable, which are operatively connected to the signal input connector (E1) so as to distribute the input signal (819) as an output signal (8191) from each of said output connectors;
• a power supply connector (E0), designed to receive a very low voltage (110);
• a circuit known as the passing injection circuit (12), arranged for:
  • supply to the input connector (E1) a very low direct voltage (110), supplied by the power supply connector (E0) so as to supply the preamplifier (811) through the input cable (80),
  • preventing said DC supply voltage (110) from propagating to the output connectors (S1, S2, S3), and
  • allow a very low DC control voltage (820), coming from one or more of the output connectors (S3) to propagate towards the input connector (E1) to supply the preamplifier and control a satellite head (821 );

said device thus achieving a multiple distribution compatible with several types of antennas and accommodating in a restricted electrical housing. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that at least one (S3) of the output connectors forms a chaining connector which is arranged to allow a rigid connection with an input connector (E1 ') of a so-called downstream box (1 ', 1 ", 2) to supply it with the input signal (819), said downstream box being fixed integrally and contiguously to the input box (1, 1', 3, 4). Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the chaining connector (S3) of the input box (1, 3, 4) is designed to be able to be connected with the input connector (E1 ') of a downstream box of the same type as said input box. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the injection circuit (12) comprises at least:

• several output branches connected in parallel and all connected to the input connectors (E1), each branch distributing one (S1) of the outputs (S1, S2, S3) and including at least one output capacitor (121c) and a unidirectional circuit return (121d) connected in parallel, said capacitance being determined to pass a radio frequency signal (819) from the input connector (E1) to said output (S1), and said one-way return circuit being oriented to pass a continuous control current (820) from said output (S1) to said input connector (E1), and
• a supply branch allowing the passage of a continuous supply current (110) from the supply connector (E0) to the input connector (E1), said supply branch including at least one protection switch (120) arranged to detect the passage of a short-circuit current in the input connector (E1) and to interrupt it in the event of such detection.

Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the inlet box (1, 3, 4) and the possible downstream box or boxes (1, 1 ', 1 ", 2) are designed to be fixed on the same rail (Rd) with two longitudinal wings symmetrical to each other called high and low, which are parallel to said rail and offset on the side opposite to the fixing side of said rail, called the front side, in particular a rail of the "DIN rail" type,
and in that said input box and / or one or more of said downstream boxes each have one or more output connectors (S1, S2, S1 ', S2', S1 ", S2") positioned on one or more of the faces high (Fh), front (Fav) or low (Fb) of said housing. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input box (4) has at least a first signal input connector (E1) and a second input connector (E2), both of which are operatively connected to all output connectors to achieve satellite-terrestrial coupling;
said first signal input connector (E1) being arranged to be supplied by the passing injection circuit (12) and to be connected to a terrestrial wave reception antenna (81), and
said second signal input connector (E2) being arranged to be connected to a satellite wave reception antenna (82). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal input connector (s) of the input box (1, 3, 4) is of a coaxial type, in particular of the "F" type, and in that at least one box, among the input box and the possible downstream box or boxes, has output connectors (S1, S2, S3) which are all of the coaxial type, in particular of the “F” type. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the signal input connector (s) of the input box (1, 3, 4) is of a "F" type coaxial type and in that 'at least one box, among the input box and the possible downstream box (s), has output connectors (S1', S2 ') which are all of the modular clip-on type with multicontacts arranged in parallel of the “RJxx” family , in particular of the "RJ45" type, possibly outside the daisy chain connector (S3 '). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the input box (1, 1 ') is substantially parallelepiped and is arranged to be fixed in a standardized manner on a support (Rd) of the "DIN rail" type by a so-called rear face (Far), said housing further having:

• two lateral faces transverse to the axis of the rail, at least one of which is designed to be able to be attached to a lateral face of another box mounted on the same rail, and
• a front face (Fav) opposite the rear face (Far),
• a top face (Fh) directed upwards and a bottom face (Fb) directed downwards when the rail (Rd) is mounted horizontally on a vertical wall;

said housing comprising an injection circuit (12) designed to receive from the supply connector (E0) a very low direct voltage supply and to supply the preamplifier (811) with the same voltage;
said input housing further having:

• on a side face of the housing known as the upstream face (Fup): one or more signal input connectors (E1, E2), of the "F" type coaxial type, positioned projecting or set back from said upstream face,
• on a top (Fh) or bottom (Fb) face of the box, but not both: a plurality of output connectors which are all of either an “F” or “RJ45” type coaxial type;
• on the other side face of the so-called downstream input box (Fdown): at least one output connector (S3, S5) of the "F" type coaxial type (for example only one), which is designed for:
  • be able to receive and connect by axial translation, directly or via a gender changer (FF3), to a signal input connector (E1 ') of a downstream box (1') of the same type as the input box (1), mounted on the same rail (Rd) so attached to said input box, and thus forming a chaining connector, or
  • be able to receive and connect to a flexible cable (69), directly or via a gender-changing device (FF3).

Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the upstream side face (Fup) carries at least one "F" type signal input connector (E1) projecting and with fixing thread;
and in that the chaining connector (S3) is arranged in a housing set back from the downstream side face (Fdown), so as to be able to accommodate an input connector (E1 ') of type "F" by axial insertion, said housing being compatible with an "F" type female-female gender changer (FF3). Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it further comprises an amplification circuit (13) which receives the input signal (819) and amplifies it before transmitting it to the output connectors. (S1, S2, S3). Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the input box (3) is substantially parallelepiped and is arranged to be fixed in a standardized manner on a support of the "DIN rail" type by a so-called rear face. , said housing further having:

• two lateral faces transverse to the axis of the rail, at least one of which is designed to be attached to a lateral face of another box mounted on the same rail, and
• a front face opposite the rear face,
• a high face directed upwards and a lower face directed downwards when the rail is mounted horizontally on a vertical wall;

said housing comprising an injection circuit (12) designed to receive from the supply connector (E0) a very low direct voltage supply and to supply the preamplifier (811) with the same voltage;
said input housing further having:

• a side face of the housing called the upstream face (Fup) of a substantially planar shape;
• on a lower face (Fb) of the housing: one or more signal input connectors (E1) of the "F" type coaxial type and a plurality of output connectors (S1, S2) which occupy the entire free length of said face (Fb), said output connectors (S1, S2) all being of the same type which is either "F" or "RJ45" type coaxial;
• on the other side face of the input box known as the downstream face (Fdown): at least one output connector (S3) of the "F" type coaxial type, which is designed for:
  • be able to receive and connect by axial translation, directly or via a gender changer, to a signal input connector (E1 ') of a downstream box (1) formed by an input box according to any one of claims 9 to 11, mounted on the same rail (Rd) contiguously to said input box (3), and thus forming a chaining connector, or
  • be able to receive and connect to a flexible cable (69), directly or via a gender-changing device (FF3).

Device according to any one of Claims 9 to 12, characterized in that the downstream side face of the input box (4) carries, in addition to the daisy-chaining connector (S3), one or more additional output connectors (S4) said end, and which are mounted set back from said face and which are connectable with a modular connector of the "RJ45" type or of the "F" type coaxial, thus providing one or more additional output connectors which can be used to connect a flexible cable when the input box is used alone or as a downstream box at the end of the chaining, directly or via a gender changer (FF4). Device according to any one of Claims 9 to 13, characterized in that the input box has a fixing base provided for a DIN rail (Rd) and which protrudes from the lower face (Fb) transversely to the axis of the rail, said lower face thus being set back from said fixing base towards the inside of the rail, by a gap (L103) intended to accommodate all or part of the length of the protrusion of the output connectors (S1, S2) when they are of an "F" type coaxial type with a protruding threaded barrel. Device according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the part of the fixing base which protrudes from the lower face forms a multipurpose fixing shoe (103) which is provided with at least two holes (1030) allowing the housing to be fixed. 'entry (1, 1') on a support by screws or rivets, and in that the rear face (Far) of the housing (1, 1 ', 3) has at least one orifice (1031) with overhanging edges which has an inlet opening of a screw head which communicates with a narrower dimensioned groove to allow said screw to slide therein while retaining its head.