JP2003318844A - Receiver with antenna self-check function - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a receiver with an antenna self-check function for discriminating a state of an antenna connected with the receiver so as not to become hindrance of airwaves, etc. <P>SOLUTION: In the receiver with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, it is provided with a transmitting function of a signal for measuring weak current and an SWR (standing wave ratio) measuring function, an SWR value is measured by transmitting extremely weak radio waves to individual antennas, presence/absence of the connected antennas is judged and a user is informed of a connected states of the antennas. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a receiver with an antenna self-check function, and more particularly, to determine the state of an antenna connected to the receiver so as not to interfere with broadcast radio waves. The present invention relates to a receiver capable of confirming by transmitting a measuring electromagnetic wave at a weak or another frequency that does not interfere.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, although a receiver can determine the arrival state of radio waves, it is not possible to conclude that an antenna is the cause of a reception failure that has occurred on the antenna side, such as aging deterioration or disconnection of the antenna system. When a reception failure occurs, it is difficult to determine whether it is caused by the antenna, the receiver, or the trouble of the broadcast wave itself. In other words, in conventional receivers, in general, a means for examining the electrical characteristics of the connected antenna has not been provided as a function until now.
It was not possible to determine if the antenna being connected was the correct antenna for the receiver.

On the other hand, in Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 10-285056, when the antenna and the transmitter are mismatched, another antenna is switched to realize efficient radiation of the transmission radio wave from the antenna. The technology is disclosed. In other words, the antenna SWR (Standi
A technique has been disclosed in which a mismatch between an antenna and a transmitter is detected by measuring g Wave Ratio (standing wave ratio).

Further, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-219665, in a radio device using a circulator, the characteristics of the circulator are used to measure the state of the reflected wave from the antenna connection end, and A technique for realizing unconnected notification is disclosed. But,
The technology disclosed in this publication is SWR (standing wave ratio).
Is not intended to measure the state of the impedance of the antenna.

Further, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 8-116316 discloses a receiving antenna operation monitoring device having a function of diagnosing the operation of an antenna mounted on a mobile device such as a car telephone or a pager (registered trademark). Discloses a technique in which the state of the antenna is determined by a test signal generation function and a measurement function of measuring the return loss and the SWR by comparing the return of the signal from the antenna with the original signal. . That is, this publication also discloses a technique in which the state of the impedance of the antenna is examined by measuring the SWR.

[0006]

As described above, in the conventional general receivers, it is difficult to understand whether the reception failure is a trouble caused by the antenna or a trouble caused by the receiver. There was a problem to say.

Incidentally, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-285056 and Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-116316 describe techniques for measuring the impedance state of the antenna by measuring SWR. No technical idea is taken into consideration that the receiver causes a radio interference due to radio leakage to other receivers in the vicinity when measuring the reception state of the antenna. Also, in the broadcasting field where it is necessary to consider the occurrence of radio interference due to radio wave leakage to nearby receivers, avoiding the occurrence of this radio interference, determining aging deterioration of the antenna system, and It was not considered as a means for determining switching or combination.

[0008]

The invention according to each claim of the present application has been made in view of the above circumstances and technical problems, and is provided with the following technical means.

The invention according to claim 1 of the present application provides a receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and an SWR measurement function, and each antenna In contrast, the SWR value is measured by transmitting a very weak electric wave, the presence or absence of the connected antenna is determined, and the user is informed of the connection state of the antenna.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, a receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and an SWR measurement function, and individual antennas are provided. It is configured to measure the SWR value by sending a very weak radio wave to determine the aged deterioration of the connected antenna system and notify the user of the replacement timing of the antenna and the necessity of adjustment. It

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and an SWR measurement function, and each antenna In contrast, the SWR value is measured by transmitting a very weak electric wave to determine whether the connected antenna is an antenna in the frequency band to be used, and notify the user of the determination result. Composed.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in a receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a weak electric power measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function are provided, and individual antennas are provided. On the other hand, the SWR value is measured by transmitting a very weak electric wave to determine which frequency band the connected antenna is for.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, a receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas and an antenna switching function is provided with a weak power measuring signal transmitting function and an SWR measuring function, The SWR value is measured by transmitting a very weak electric wave to the antenna, and the presence or absence of the connected antenna is determined, and if not connected, it automatically switches to another antenna terminal or antenna. , Composed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in a receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, an antenna switching function, and a plurality of tuners of different frequency bands, a weak electric power measurement signal transmission function is provided. SW
With the R measurement function, the SWR value is measured by sending out very weak radio waves to each antenna, and the user does not need to be aware of whether or not the antenna is the target antenna.
It is configured to automatically switch to the target antenna according to the judgment of the receiver.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, a receiver connected to an antenna under the condition that it is not necessary to consider the directional characteristics is provided with a weak electric power measurement signal transmission function and an SWR measurement function, By sending a very weak electric wave to the antenna of the user, when the adjustment of the omnidirectional antenna etc. is required, the electric state of the antenna system can be checked by the user even if the target electric wave is not sent. Configured to inform.

The invention according to claim 8 of the present application provides a receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power, an SWR measurement function, and a network communication function. , The SWR value is measured by sending out very weak radio waves to each antenna, the electrical state of the connected antenna is judged, and the information is sent to the service provider or receiver maker via the network. It is configured to notify as an electrical state.

The invention according to claim 9 of the present application is, in a receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a measurement signal transmitting function and SWR measurement capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. SW by sending a radio wave of a frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas to each function
It is configured to measure the R value, determine the presence or absence of a connected antenna, and notify the user of the connection state of the antenna.

The invention according to claim 10 of the present application is, in a receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a measurement signal transmitting function and SWR measurement capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. S has a function by sending radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas to the individual antennas.
It is configured to measure the WR value to determine aging of the connected antenna system and inform the user of when to replace the antenna or the need for adjustment.

The invention according to claim 11 of the present application is, in a receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a signal transmission function for measurement and SWR measurement capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. S has a function by sending radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas to the individual antennas.
It is configured to measure the WR value, determine whether the connected antenna is an antenna in the frequency band to be used, and notify the user of the determination result.

The invention according to claim 12 of the present application is, in a receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a measurement signal transmitting function and SWR measurement capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. S has a function by sending radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas to the individual antennas.
It is configured to measure the WR value and determine for which frequency band the connected antenna is an antenna.

The invention according to claim 13 of the present application provides a measuring signal transmitting function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas in a receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas and an antenna switching function. The SWR measurement function is provided, and the SWR value is measured by transmitting to each antenna a radio wave of a frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas, the presence or absence of the connected antenna is determined, and the connection is established. If not, it is configured to automatically switch to another antenna terminal or antenna.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in a receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a function of switching antennas, and a plurality of tuners of different frequency bands, a frequency band not originally used by those antennas is provided. The SWR value is measured by transmitting a radio wave of a frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas to the individual antennas by providing a measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function that can be transmitted by the user. It is configured to automatically switch to the target antenna according to the determination of the receiver, without having to be aware of whether or not the antenna is the target antenna.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in a receiver connected to an antenna under the condition that it is not necessary to consider the directional characteristics, a measuring signal transmitting function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas is provided. By providing the SWR measurement function and sending the radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas to the individual antennas, the transmission of the target radio waves can be performed when adjustment of an omnidirectional antenna or the like is necessary. It is configured to inform the user of the electrical status of the antenna system, even if not done.

The invention according to claim 16 of the present application is, in a receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, a measurement signal transmitting function and SWR measurement capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. Function and network communication function are provided, and the SWR value is measured by sending out to each antenna a radio wave of a frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas to determine the electrical state of the connected antenna. Then, the information is transmitted to a service provider or a receiver maker through a network as an electric state of the antenna.

The invention according to claim 17 of the present application is the receiver according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein:
The threshold value of the SWR or the value of the standard aging amount or rate of change, which is the reference of the state determination of the antenna in the control unit of the receiver, or the set value of the transmission frequency other than the reception frequency of the receiver, Configured as set by the applicable device or system.

The invention according to claim 18 of the present application is the receiver according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein:
By transmitting the radio wave transmitted from the measurement signal generation unit by the receiver at a frequency that the receiver cannot receive, it is configured so that it is not necessary to protect the tuner unit from the wraparound of the transmission radio wave when measuring the state of the antenna. It

As described above, in the present invention, in order to determine the state of the antenna connected to the receiver, the measurement electromagnetic wave is transmitted at a weak or another frequency that does not interfere with broadcast radio waves. Then, I try to check the condition of the antenna. As a result, until now it was difficult to understand whether the reception failure was caused by the antenna or the receiver. Thus, it is possible to switch to another appropriate antenna to solve the problem, and there is no risk of causing radio interference to other nearby receivers due to radio wave leakage.

Further, in the present invention, the user does not need to be aware of the proper combination for the connection between the receiver and the antenna,
After connection, the receiver can inform the user of the error and the receiver can automatically change the combination, and it is necessary to consider which antenna should be connected to which receiver and which terminal should be connected. In addition to the convenience of not having it, a reception failure due to an incorrect connection can be eliminated. For example, when reorganizing the broadcast frequency band, it is expected that the antenna and the receiver will be reconnected. In such a case, the proper connection between the antenna and the receiver can be easily performed. This is because the structure of the present invention requires less signal loss than the case of mounting a so-called demultiplexer in which one terminal is connected to an antenna of a plurality of frequency bands. In addition, it can operate even under the condition that broadcast radio waves are not transmitted, and by performing periodic measurement automatically in addition to confirming the electrical suitability of the antenna and disconnection judgment, it is possible to compare the measured values with aging deterioration. It is also possible to determine the difference in damage, and the receiver can notify the user of this information.

Furthermore, in the future, it is considered that individual home appliances will be provided with a network function to be useful for external control and transmission of failure information. However, it becomes clear by using the present invention, and it becomes possible to convey the information as data to a service provider or an engineer through a network.

[0030]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

In the embodiment of the present application, the receiver is provided with a signal path for measuring the antenna state different from the normal reception state, and when investigating the state of the antenna, a weak or obstructed signal is generated from the measurement signal generator. SWR measurement is performed by generating electromagnetic waves at a frequency that does not change, and whether the SWR value exceeds or falls below a certain value based on the measured value, the magnitude of that value, and the periodic measurement and recording over time The receiver itself can determine what kind of state the antenna is in by performing a physical comparison, etc., let the user know, automatically switch to the optimum antenna, and send the antenna failure as data by the network function. ing.

In other words, in the embodiment of the present application, the measuring signal generating function for checking the state of the antenna can generate a weak electromagnetic wave that does not affect the surroundings such as radio interference and is legally problem-free. I am supposed to. Also, if the frequency of the transmitted electromagnetic wave is in the receivable frequency band of the receiver, in this case, in order to consider the wraparound of the electromagnetic wave to the tuner part of the receiver itself, the tuner part inside the receiver and the measurement signal The distance between the generators is increased, the receiving function is temporarily stopped, and the operation is performed during a standby state in which the receiving function is not working.

Alternatively, in the embodiment of the present application, the measurement signal generating function for checking the state of the antenna is capable of transmitting radio waves of frequencies not used in broadcasting or the like.

<First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a first embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 1, 1 is an antenna, 2 is a control unit that controls the overall control of the receiver, 3 is a signal path switching control unit, 4 is a path switch, 5 is a measurement signal generating unit, 6 is a SWR measuring unit, and 7 is A tuner unit, 8 is a signal processing unit, and 9 is a user interface unit.

In the present embodiment, by providing the path switch 4 in the signal path from the antenna 1, one of them is the tuner section 7.
Connected to the other side, and the other side is SWR measurement unit 6 and measurement signal generation unit 5
It is possible to connect. Each path is selectively selected and switched by the path switch 4 that operates by a switching signal issued from the control unit 2, and is used in a state where the path to the tuner unit 7 is selected in a normal reception state.

When investigating the state of the antenna, the SWR
The measurement signal generator 5 is switched to a path connecting to the measurement unit 6 and the measurement signal generator 5, and a weak electromagnetic wave (radio wave) of a frequency receivable by the receiver is transmitted from the measurement signal generator 5, and the SWR measurement unit 6
To measure the SWR value. When the SWR value shows a value lower than a certain value, the control unit 2 determines that the antenna 1 is an antenna in a frequency band that can be used by the receiver, and the SWR value shows total reflection. In the case of the value, it is determined that the antenna 1 is in the state of being disconnected or not connected, and when the SWR value shows a value larger than a certain value, the antenna 1 is an antenna in a frequency band that cannot be used. It is determined that there is, and the user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result.

The process of investigating the state of the antenna may be continuously carried out at a fixed cycle, or may be carried out by the user or the like at an appropriate time as necessary (this is done in each of the following items). The same applies to the embodiment).

In this embodiment, the frequency of the electromagnetic wave for measurement is in the receivable frequency band of the receiver. Therefore, when investigating the state of the antenna, the path switching unit 4 controls the receiving function of the tuner section. It is stopped so as to avoid the influence of electromagnetic waves sneaking into the tuner section.
In order to prevent electromagnetic waves from sneaking into the tuner, keep the distance between the tuner and measurement signal generator in the receiver, or check the antenna status during the standby state when the reception function is not working. (This is also the case in each of the following embodiments in which the frequency of the electromagnetic wave for measuring the state of the antenna is in the receivable frequency band of the receiver).

<Second Embodiment> FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a second embodiment of the present invention, in which the components equivalent to those described in the previous embodiment are shown. The same components are designated by the same reference numerals (this also applies to each of the following embodiments). In FIG. 2, 10 is an aging information storage unit.

In this embodiment, by providing the path switch 4 in the signal path from the antenna 1, one of the tuner units 7 is provided.
Connected to the other side, and the other side is SWR measurement unit 6 and measurement signal generation unit 5
It is possible to connect. Each path is selectively selected and switched by the path switch 4 that operates by a switching signal issued from the control unit 2, and is used in a state where the path to the tuner unit 7 is selected in a normal reception state.

When investigating the state of the antenna, the SWR
The measurement signal generator 5 is switched to a path connecting to the measurement unit 6 and the measurement signal generator 5, and a weak electromagnetic wave having a frequency receivable by the receiver is transmitted from the measurement signal generator 5, and the SWR measurement unit 6 causes the SWR.
Measure the value. Then, the control unit 2 stores the measured SWR value in the aging information storage unit 10 in time series or together with time information. In addition, the control unit 2 compares the measured SWR value with the latest SWR value in the secular change information storage unit 10 during this accumulation processing, and the value exceeds a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation amount to an extremely large value. If it becomes worse, it is judged that the antenna is damaged, and if it exceeds a certain value even if it is within a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation range, it means that the antenna has deteriorated. The user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result.

<Third Embodiment> FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, by providing the path switch 4 in the signal path from the antenna 1, one of them is the tuner section 7.
Connected to the other side, and the other side is SWR measurement unit 6 and measurement signal generation unit 5
It is possible to connect. Each path is selectively selected and switched by the path switch 4 that operates by a switching signal issued from the control unit 2, and is used in a state where the path to the tuner unit 7 is selected in a normal reception state.

When investigating the state of the antenna, the SWR
Switching to the path connecting to the measurement unit 6 and the measurement signal generation unit 5, the weak electromagnetic waves are sequentially transmitted from the measurement signal generation unit 5 at each of a plurality of expected frequencies,
The SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value. Then, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the connected antenna 1 is for and notifies the user of the contents by the user interface unit 9. .

<Fourth Embodiment> FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 4, 11 is an antenna and 12 is an antenna path switching control unit. 13 is an antenna switching device.

In this embodiment, the antenna 1 and the antenna 1
The signal path from 1 is configured to be switched by the antenna switch 13 in the receiver, and the signal is further connected to the tuner section 7 by providing the path switch 4.
The other one can be connected to the SWR measurement unit 6 and the measurement signal generation unit 5. Each antenna has a control unit 2
The antenna path switching control unit 12 and the antenna switching unit 13 are used to selectively select and switch between the two.
The signal path to each of the receivers is selectively selected by the control unit 2, the signal path switching control unit 3, and the path switching unit 4 and used. In a normal reception state, the path switch 4 is used with the path to the tuner unit 7 selected.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver issues a route switching instruction from the control unit 2 to the signal route switching control unit 3, whereby the route switching device 4 switches the signal route to the SWR measuring unit 6 side. While switching, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to send out a weak electromagnetic wave,
As a result, a weak electromagnetic wave is emitted from the measurement signal generator 5.
A plurality of expected frequencies are sequentially transmitted for each frequency, and the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value. Then, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the antenna to be investigated is for. Also, to investigate the other antenna,
The controller 2 issues an antenna path switching instruction to the antenna path switching controller 12, whereby the antenna switch 13
Switches to an antenna different from the current one, and similarly, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to send out a weak electromagnetic wave, which causes the measurement signal generation unit 5 to emit a weak electromagnetic wave. A plurality of expected frequencies are sequentially transmitted for each frequency, and the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value. Similarly, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines for which frequency band the antenna switched for the investigation. As a result of this determination, when the control unit 2 determines that the receiver is an antenna for a frequency band that can be used by any of the receivers, it automatically switches to an antenna with a lower SWR value and uses any antenna. Even when it is determined that the frequency band is not possible, the antenna having the lower SWR value is automatically switched.

<Fifth Embodiment> FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 5, 7'is a tuner unit for the A frequency band, Reference numeral 14 is a tuner section for the B frequency band, and 15 is a combination information storage section of a tuner and an antenna.

In this embodiment, the antenna 1 and the antenna 1
1 is an antenna for each different frequency band, the signal path from each antenna is configured to be switched by the antenna switch 13 in the receiver, and
The signal from the antenna switching unit 13 is provided with the route switching unit 4 so that a route connecting to the tuner unit 7 ′ for the A frequency band, a route connecting to the tuner unit 14 for the B frequency band, and S
It is possible to switch the path connecting the WR measuring unit 6 and the measurement signal generating unit 5. Each of the antennas is used by being selectively selected and switched by the control unit 2, the antenna path switching control unit 12, and the antenna switching unit 13, and the signal path to each receiver is the control unit 2 and the signal path. The route switching control unit 3 and the route switching unit 4 select and use one of them.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver issues a route switching instruction from the control unit 2 to the signal route switching control unit 3, whereby the route switching unit 4 switches the signal route to the SWR measuring unit 6 side. While switching, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to send out a weak electromagnetic wave,
As a result, a weak electromagnetic wave is emitted from the measurement signal generator 5.
A plurality of expected frequency bands are sequentially transmitted for each frequency band, and the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value. Then, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the antenna to be investigated is for. Further, in order to investigate the state of the other antenna, the control unit 2 issues an antenna route switching instruction to the antenna route switching control unit 12, whereby the antenna switching unit 13 switches the connection to an antenna different from the current one, Similarly, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to send out a weak electromagnetic wave, so that the measurement signal generation unit 5 outputs a weak electromagnetic wave to a plurality of expected frequency bands. The SWR measurement unit 6 is made to sequentially transmit for each frequency band.
To measure the SWR value. Then, similarly, the control unit 2
If there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, it is determined for which frequency band the antenna switched for investigation is.

Based on these determination results, the control unit 2
It is determined whether the antenna 1 and the antenna 11 are available in the tuner unit 7 ′ for the A frequency band and the tuner unit 14 for the B frequency band, and the combination information is stored in the combination storage unit 15 of the tuner and the antenna. . When the user uses the receiver, the control unit 2 determines which antenna to connect to based on the information in the tuner / antenna combination storage unit 15 according to the selected frequency. , The signal path and the antenna are selected respectively. When the control unit 2 determines that there is an antenna for a frequency band that can be used by the receiver, the SWR is more
The antenna with the lower value and the tuner are combined, and even when it is determined that none of the antennas is in the usable frequency band, the combination with the antenna with the lower SWR value is used.

<Sixth Embodiment> FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 6, reference numeral 16 denotes an external device through a network such as the Internet. A network communication unit that performs communication. The configuration of the receiver according to the present embodiment is obtained by adding a network communication function to the configuration of the receiver according to the second embodiment shown in FIG.

In this embodiment, by providing the path switch 4 in the signal path from the antenna 1, one of the tuner units 7 is provided.
Connected to the other side, and the other side is SWR measurement unit 6 and measurement signal generation unit 5
It is possible to connect. Each path is selectively selected and switched by the path switch 4 that operates by a switching signal issued from the control unit 2, and is used in a state where the path to the tuner unit 7 is selected in a normal reception state.

When investigating the state of the antenna, the SWR
The measurement signal generator 5 is switched to a path connecting to the measurement unit 6 and the measurement signal generator 5, and a weak electromagnetic wave having a frequency receivable by the receiver is transmitted from the measurement signal generator 5, and the SWR measurement unit 6 causes the SWR.
Measure the value. Then, the control unit 2 stores the measured SWR value in the aging information storage unit 10 in time series or together with time information. In addition, the control unit 2 compares the measured SWR value with the latest SWR value in the secular change information storage unit 10 during this accumulation processing, and the value exceeds a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation amount to an extremely large value. If it becomes worse, it is judged that the antenna is damaged, and if it exceeds a certain value even if it is within a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation range, it means that the antenna has deteriorated. The user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result, and the network communication unit 16 sends the determination result to an external device through a network such as the Internet. This allows the situation to be communicated to remote service companies and manufacturer engineers.

The process of investigating the state of the antenna may be carried out by a technician or a service provider at a remote place through the Internet or the like.

<Seventh Embodiment> FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the signal path from the antenna 1 is branched into two, one is connected to the tuner section 7, and the other is connected to the SWR measuring section 6 and the measurement signal generating section 5. In a normal reception state, the receiver operates only by the signal flow to the tuner unit 7.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver instructs the measurement signal generating unit 5 from the control unit 2 to a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At a plurality of frequencies and the SWR value is expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value, with the same element length as this and a frequency at which a standing wave stands at 3/2 wavelength. Then, when the SWR value shows a constant low value, the control unit 2
It is determined that the antenna 1 is an antenna in the frequency band that can be used by the receiver, and if the SWR value is a value indicating total reflection, it is determined that the antenna 1 is in a disconnected or unconnected state, When the SWR value is larger than a certain value, it is determined that the antenna 1 is an antenna in a frequency band that cannot be used, and the user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result.

<Eighth Embodiment> FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the signal path from the antenna 1 is branched into two, one of which is connected to the tuner unit 7 and the other of which is connected to the SWR measuring unit 6 and the measurement signal generating unit 5. In a normal reception state, the receiver operates only by the signal flow to the tuner unit 7.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver instructs the measurement signal generator 5 from the controller 2 to a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At a plurality of frequencies and the SWR value is expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value, with the same element length as this and a frequency at which a standing wave stands at 3/2 wavelength. Then, the control unit 2 stores the measured SWR value in the aging information storage unit 10 in time series or together with time information. In addition, the control unit 2 compares the measured SWR value with the latest SWR value in the secular change information storage unit 10 during this accumulation processing, and the value exceeds a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation amount to an extremely large value. If it becomes worse, it is judged that the antenna is damaged, and if it exceeds a certain value even if it is within a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation range, it means that the antenna has deteriorated. The user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result.

<Ninth Embodiment> FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the signal path from the antenna 1 is branched into two, one of which is connected to the tuner unit 7 and the other of which is connected to the SWR measuring unit 6 and the measurement signal generating unit 5. In a normal reception state, the receiver operates only by the signal flow to the tuner unit 7.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver instructs the measurement signal generator 5 from the controller 2 to a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At a plurality of frequencies and the SWR value is expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value, with the same element length as this and a frequency at which a standing wave stands at 3/2 wavelength. Then, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the connected antenna is for and notifies the user of the contents by the user interface unit 9.

<Tenth Embodiment> FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the antenna 1 and the antenna 1
The signal path from 1 is switched by the antenna switch 13 in the receiver, and the signal path from the antenna switch 13 is branched into two, one of which is connected to the tuner unit 7 and the other of which is the SWR measuring unit. 6 and the signal generator 5 for measurement. Each antenna has a control unit 2
The antenna path switching control unit 12 and the antenna switching unit 13 are used to selectively select and switch between them.

In order to investigate the condition of the antenna, the receiver instructs the measurement signal generator 5 from the control unit 2 to a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At a plurality of frequencies and the SWR value is expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value, with the same element length as this and a frequency at which a standing wave stands at 3/2 wavelength. Then, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the antenna to be investigated is for, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, and to investigate the other antenna,
The controller 2 issues an antenna path switching instruction to the antenna path switching controller 12, whereby the antenna switch 13
Switches to an antenna different from the current one, and similarly, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to use a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At multiple frequencies, and SW
It instructs the transmission of radio waves expected to show a low R value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 causes the SWR measurement unit 6 to measure the SWR value by sequentially transmitting radio waves at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band for each frequency band. Similarly, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines for which frequency band the antenna switched for the investigation. As a result of this determination, when the control unit 2 determines that there is an antenna for a frequency band that can be used by any of the receivers, the SWR is more
The antenna with the lower value is automatically switched, and when it is determined that neither antenna is in the usable frequency band, the antenna with the lower SWR value is automatically switched.

<Eleventh Embodiment> FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing the main structure of a receiver according to the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

In this embodiment, the antenna 1 and the antenna 1
1 is an antenna for each different frequency band, the signal path from each antenna is configured to be switched by the antenna switch 13 in the receiver, and
The signal path from the antenna switch 13 is branched into two, one of which is connected to the path switch 4 and the other of which is connected to the SWR measuring unit 6 and the measurement signal generating unit 5. In addition, the route switch 4
By providing the above, it is possible to switch and select the route connecting to the tuner unit 7 ′ for the A frequency band and the route connecting to the tuner unit 14 for the B frequency band. Each antenna is selectively used by the control unit 2, the antenna path switching control unit 12, and the antenna switching unit 13, and the signal path to the tuner unit 7 ′ and the signal path to the tuner unit 14 are The control unit 2, the signal path switching control unit 3, and the path switching unit 4 select one of them for use.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver instructs the measurement signal generator 5 from the controller 2 to a frequency band other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. At a plurality of frequencies and the SWR value is expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measurement unit 6 measures the SWR value, with the same element length as this and a frequency at which a standing wave stands at 3/2 wavelength. Then, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines which frequency band the current antenna is for based on the result. In addition, in order to investigate the other antenna, the control unit 2 issues an antenna path switching instruction to the antenna path switching control unit 12, whereby the antenna switching unit 13 switches the connection to an antenna different from the current one. Similarly, the control unit 2 instructs the measurement signal generation unit 5 to have a plurality of frequencies other than the frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception, and the SWR value. Indicates the transmission of radio waves expected to show a low value. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5
Causes the SWR measurement unit 6 to send S radio waves in sequence for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band.
Measure the WR value. Similarly, if there is a frequency for which a constant value is obtained, the control unit 2 determines for which frequency band the antenna switched for the investigation.

Based on these judgment results, the controller 2
It is determined whether the antenna 1 and the antenna 11 are available in the tuner unit 7 ′ for the A frequency band and the tuner unit 14 for the B frequency band, and the combination information is stored in the combination storage unit 15 of the tuner and the antenna. . When the user uses the receiver, the control unit 2 determines which antenna to connect to based on the information in the tuner / antenna combination storage unit 15 according to the selected frequency. , The signal path and the antenna are selected respectively. When the control unit 2 determines that there is an antenna for a frequency band that can be used by the receiver, the SWR is more
The antenna with the lower value and the tuner are combined, and even when it is determined that none of the antennas is in the usable frequency band, the combination with the antenna with the lower SWR value is used.

<Twelfth Embodiment> FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention. The configuration of the receiver of this embodiment is the configuration of the receiver of the eighth embodiment shown in FIG. 8 with a network communication function added.

In this embodiment, the signal path from the antenna 1 is branched into two, one of which is connected to the tuner unit 7 and the other of which is connected to the SWR measuring unit 6 and the measurement signal generating unit 5. In a normal reception state, the receiver operates only by the signal flow to the tuner unit 7.

In order to investigate the state of the antenna, the receiver sends to the measurement signal generator 5 from the controller 2 a frequency band in which the antenna connected to the receiver is expected to be used for normal reception. It is instructed to send radio waves expected to exhibit a low SWR value at a plurality of frequencies other than. As a result, the measurement signal generator 5 sequentially transmits radio waves for each frequency band at a plurality of frequencies other than the expected frequency band (for example, in a television receiver, 1 /
Since a Yagi antenna with two wavelengths is common, the SWR measuring unit 6 measures the SWR value with the same element length and the frequency at which a standing wave of 3/2 wavelength is set up). Then, the control unit 2 stores the measured SWR value in the aging information storage unit 10 in time series or together with time information. In addition, the control unit 2 compares the measured SWR value with the latest SWR value in the secular change information storage unit 10 during this accumulation processing, and the value exceeds a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation amount to an extremely large value. If it becomes worse, it is judged that the antenna is damaged, and if it exceeds a certain value even if it is within a certain fluctuation rate or fluctuation range, it means that the antenna has deteriorated. The user interface unit 9 notifies the user of the determination result, and the network communication unit 16 sends the determination result to an external device through a network such as the Internet. This allows
It is possible to convey the situation to remote service companies and manufacturer engineers.

The process of investigating the state of the antenna may be carried out by a technician or a service provider at a remote place through the Internet or the like.

[0076]

As described above, according to the present invention, in order to discriminate the state of the antenna connected to the receiver, the electromagnetic wave for measurement is weak or different so as not to interfere with broadcast radio waves. Since the signal is sent out at a frequency to check the antenna status, the receiver can clearly indicate the antenna status to the user, or switch to another appropriate antenna at the receiver's discretion to solve the problem. In addition, it is possible to avoid the possibility of causing a radio interference due to radio wave leakage to other receivers in the vicinity. In addition, since it is possible to accurately determine whether or not there is a reception failure due to the antenna, it is possible to clearly identify the failure, and especially for the TV.
It will be a great help to quickly find out where the cause exists, including the field of broadcasting receivers such as.

Also, regarding the connection between the receiver and the antenna, the user does not need to be aware of an appropriate combination, and the receiver may notify the user of an error after the connection or the receiver may automatically change the combination. Therefore, there is no need to consider which antenna should be connected to which receiver and which terminal should be connected, and it is possible to eliminate the reception failure due to erroneous connection. Therefore, the frequency band (VHF or U
It is not necessary to display (HF, etc.), and the user can connect in any combination without paying attention to the connection combination of the antenna and the receiver.

Further, by mounting the network communication function, the receiver / antenna manufacturer / service company can grasp the antenna failure at a remote place, and the user can receive accurate repairs, advices, services, etc. Will be able to provide.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to an eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a main configuration of a receiver according to a twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 antenna 2 control unit 3 Signal path switching control unit 4 path switch 5 Measurement signal generator 6 SWR measurement unit 7 Tuner section Tuner for 7'A frequency band 8 Signal processor 9 User interface section 10 Aging information storage unit 11 antenna 12 Antenna path switching control unit 13 Antenna switch 15 Tuner / antenna combination information storage 16 Network Communication Department

Claims (18)

[Claims] 1. A receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals or antennas, comprising a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and a standing wave ratio (Standig Wafer).
ve Ratio; hereinafter referred to as SWR) with a measurement function,
Antenna self-check characterized by measuring the SWR value by sending out very weak radio waves to each antenna, judging the presence of connected antennas, and notifying the user of the antenna connection status Receiver with function. 2. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals or antennas, which is provided with a signal sending function for measuring weak power and a SWR measuring function to send very weak radio waves to each antenna. The receiver with an antenna self-check function characterized by measuring the SWR value to determine the aged deterioration of the connected antenna system, and notifying the user of the replacement time of the antenna and the necessity of adjustment. . 3. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals or antennas, which is provided with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and a SWR measurement function, and transmits very weak radio waves to each antenna. By measuring the SWR value, it is determined whether the connected antenna is an antenna in the frequency band to be used, and the user is informed of the result of this determination. Receiving machine. 4. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals or antennas, which is provided with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power and a SWR measurement function, and transmits very weak radio waves to individual antennas. A receiver with an antenna self-check function, characterized in that the SWR value is measured to determine which frequency band the connected antenna is for. 5. A receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals, antennas, and an antenna switching function is provided with a weak power measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function, and each antenna has a very weak radio wave. The self-check function for antennas is characterized by measuring the SWR value by sending a message to determine the presence / absence of a connected antenna, and if not, automatically switching to another antenna terminal or antenna. With receiver. 6. A receiver having a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas, an antenna switching function, and a plurality of tuners of different frequency bands, having a weak power measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function, The SWR value is measured by transmitting very weak radio waves to each antenna, and the user does not need to be aware of whether or not the antenna is the target antenna, and the receiver automatically determines the target antenna. A receiver with an antenna self-check function that is switched by. 7. A receiver connected to an antenna under the condition that it is not necessary to consider the directional characteristics, is provided with a signal transmitting function for measuring weak power and a SWR measuring function, and an extremely weak radio wave is transmitted to each antenna. The antenna is characterized by notifying the electric state of the antenna system to the user even if the target radio wave is not being transmitted when the omnidirectional antenna or the like needs to be adjusted. -Receiver with self-check function. 8. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a signal transmission function for measuring weak power, an SWR measuring function, and a network communication function, and each antenna is very weak. It measures the SWR value by sending out various radio waves, determines the electrical state of the connected antenna, and informs the information to the service provider or receiver maker via the network as the electrical state of the antenna. A receiver with an antenna self-check function. 9. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas, Characteristic that the SWR value is measured by transmitting the radio wave of the frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas to the antennas, the presence or absence of the connected antennas is determined, and the user is notified of the connection state of the antennas A receiver with an antenna self-check function. 10. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas, The SWR value is measured by transmitting to the antennas radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas, to determine the deterioration over time of the connected antenna system, and to inform the user of the timing of antenna replacement and adjustment. A receiver with an antenna self-check function that informs you of the need. 11. A receiver equipped with one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a measurement signal transmission function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas and an SWR measurement function, The SWR value is measured by transmitting to the antenna radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas, and it is determined whether the connected antenna is an antenna in the frequency band to be used. A receiver with an antenna self-check function, which informs the user of the result. 12. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas is provided with a measuring signal transmitting function and an SWR measuring function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas, Antennas characterized by measuring the SWR value by transmitting radio waves of frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas to determine which frequency band the connected antenna is for. Receiver with self-check function. 13. A plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas,
In a receiver having an antenna switching function, a measurement signal transmission function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas and a SWR measurement function are provided, and the frequency originally used by those antennas is An antenna characterized by measuring the SWR value by transmitting radio waves of different frequencies to determine the presence / absence of a connected antenna, and automatically switching to another antenna terminal or antenna if not connected -Receiver with self-check function. 14. A plurality of antenna input terminals and antennas,
Also, in a receiver having a plurality of antenna switching functions and tuners of different frequency bands, each antenna is provided with a measurement signal transmission function and a SWR measurement function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. The SWR value is measured by transmitting a radio wave having a frequency different from the frequency originally used by those antennas, and the user does not need to be aware of whether or not the antenna is the target antenna, and the receiver can determine the purpose. A receiver with an antenna self-check function, which automatically switches to a different antenna. 15. A receiver connected to an antenna under the condition that it is not necessary to consider the directional characteristics, is provided with a signal transmission function for measurement and a SWR measurement function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas. By sending radio waves to the individual antennas at frequencies different from those originally used by those antennas, even when the target radio waves are not being transmitted when adjustment is required for omnidirectional antennas, etc. An antenna characterized by notifying the user of the electrical status of the system
Receiver with self-check function. 16. A receiver having one or a plurality of antenna input terminals or antennas, having a measurement signal transmission function capable of transmitting in a frequency band not originally used by those antennas, a SWR measurement function, and a network communication function. Then, the SWR value is measured by sending radio waves to the individual antennas at frequencies different from the frequencies originally used by those antennas, the electrical status of the connected antennas is determined, and that information is serviced through the network. A receiver with an antenna self-check function, which informs vendors and receiver manufacturers of the electrical status of the antenna. 17. The threshold value of SWR or a standard aging amount or a change rate value according to any one of claims 1 to 16, which serves as a reference for determining a state of an antenna in a control unit of the receiver. Alternatively, the receiver with an antenna self-check function, wherein the set value of the transmission frequency other than the reception frequency of the receiver is set by the applicable device or system. 18. The antenna state measurement according to claim 9, wherein the receiver transmits the radio wave sent from the measurement signal generator at a frequency that the receiver cannot receive. A receiver with an antenna self-check function, which sometimes does not need to protect the tuner from sneaking in transmitted radio waves.