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How much does it cost? What does the system comprise? Telephone connection Why can't I order PPV movies? How do I remotely control my Digibox inside a cabinet? Why does my TV link not work? What is the purpose of the Computer interface socket? Can I connect more than one TV? Can I record a different programme? Can I watch or record more than one programme simultaneously? Is the Digibox compatible with Widescreen TV, Nicam stereo etc? Is there any discount or "trade-in" for my analogue system? Can I use my existing dish for Sky digital? Can I run my existing analogue system as well? What Symbol Rates are available? What Forward Error Correction is available? Can I install the system myself? How do I motorise my Digibox How can I program "other satellite"? How can I get the digibox to receive free-to-air' channels? Is there a range of LNB Local Oscillator settings? How do I turn the 22kHz tone off? Is DisEqc supported? Are there any secret menus/ handset codes? How do I change the UHF output tuning? Why are my UHF output pictures so grainy? Why is there no audio from the RF Output? Why do my terrestrial pictures have interference lines? Will the Remote control Handset work my TV/VCR ? Which is the best "Universal" remote control? Will the Digibox receive the digital terrestrial channels ? How do I get BBC and C4 without taking a Sky digital sub ? How do I get BBC from a different region ? Will my Sky digital smart card work in my analogue receiver? Will my Sky analogue smart card work in my Digibox? Will my Sky digital viewing card work in any Digibox? Can I get a digital decoder to plug into my analogue satellite receiver? Will a D2Mac Decoder work if I connect it to my Digibox? Are the BBC radio stations available from Astra at 28.2E? Can I receive any foreign programmes from 28.2E? Where can I find the coverage "footprint" of Astra at 28.2 ? Where can I buy a second hand Digibox? Can I get Internet Access ? Where can I buy the "OPEN" keyboard? How do I set the timer to record? How do I get stereo audio? Can I place the dish behind a window? Should I connect my digibox to my motorised system or not? Can I fit a digital tuner inside my analogue receiver? Why does the TV picture sometimes freeze or break up into blocks? What are the factors that affect the Quality reading? I've lost some channels (usually Sky One or the BBC package). How can I remedy this? How do I order pay-per-view programmes? What causes the on-screen message 'No satellite signal being received? How do the Scart AV functions work? How can I find out what version of software is being used in my digibox? How do I get Dolby surround sound through my MSS1000? What "Other channels" can I get from my Digibox? Where can I find the reception footprints for Astra at 28.2E ? Why do the programme listings disappear occasionally ? Why don't Videoplus codes work? Where can I get a USER MANUAL? I want to install it myself Will newer Digiboxes work outside the UK? (Why not?) Why won't PDC work ? How do I force a software download? Can I lock out or remove one channel? Can I get S-Video from a Digibox? How much does it cost? If you arrange the installation through Sky Homeserve it will cost £40.00. At the time of writing ( October 14, 1999 ) there is a 3 - 4 week wait. This also applies to call-out under guarantee so, if the system fails to work after the installer leaves, you might not see him for another 4 weeks. You might get a better guarantee if you get a local installer to do the work (see 5.). What are the "hidden" costs? 1) (Deleted as out of date) 2) If you do not sign the BIB contract (British Interactive Broadcasting) or you do not have a suitable telephone or if it can not be used for any reason, you must pay an extra £135.00 (normally subsidised by BIB). 3) If your existing coaxial cable can not be used or is unsuitable for any reason, or extra brackets/pole are required, you mightpay an extra £39.95 to have a new cable and or brackets/pole installed. Note that there are many reasons for not using your existing cable, including: It is damaged in some way (kinked, water inside) It is not long enough for new dish position. It is not of the minimum standard for digital according to BS EN50117 (Raydex CT100, Pope H109F or better). 4) If your telephone extension is outside the "standard installation" length/complexity (as yet undefined*) then an extra charge may be levied. (* generally interpreted as "not in the same room as the Digibox" but some dealers say "more than 2 metres from a telephone socket"). 5) Additional costs may be payable if you get an independent installer to provide the system but the guarantee etc. might be better/quicker. 6) Your existing Sky Analogue subscription is cancelled automatically unless you specifically tick a box on the contract to retain it. 7) An optional £15 per year "Sky Subscription Protection Plan provided by Guardian Insurance. 8) If you do not subscribe to Sky Digital then the installation will cost an additional £99.99. 9) You can't receive German channels or the European Eurosport. 10) If the Digibox fails outside warranty it could cost a minimum of £280 to replace it unless you have insured it or can find a good used one. What does the Sky Digital system comprise? A Sky Digibox with internal modem, single LNB input, Universal LNB, 45 x 55 cm dish, telephone extension wire and socket, and Sky viewing card if you subscribe (which includes free BBC etc. viewing). Do I *have* to have a telephone connection? No. If you can't have - or don't want - a telephone connection, you can still get the system installed but you will have to pay the extra £135.00 that is normally subsidised by BIB. You will probably not be able to use any of the Interactive Services and authorisation of pay-per-view movies, change of PIN numbers and various other things will have to be done by you by using the telephone in the normal way. What is the purpose of the telephone connection? The telephone connection allows the Digibox to dial out. Whenever possible, this will usually happen during the night and it will not interrupt an ongoing call but will wait until the line is free. The duration of the call will be just a few seconds. Such a call may be made when you use the shopping, banking or Internet facilities which are planned. It will occur when you authorise a "Pay per View" movie. Sky can send a satellite signal to tell your receiver to phone Sky. The Sky contract states that calls will be free unless one month's notice is given. The number that is dialled by Sky's Digital cards to upload and download data is an 0800 number at present. In theory, the Digibox could also accept an incoming call without your telephone ringing. To do this is no great technical challenge. The modem receives the incoming caller ID data *before* the first ring. The internal software recognises the caller ID as belonging to (for example) Sky or BIB and tells the modem to ground the ringer wire so no telephone in the house can ring. The modem then accepts the call, data is exchanged and the telephone line is released. All of this can happen within less than 2 seconds - dependent on the amount of data to be transmitted. Note: there is no suggestion that this is being done or can be done with existing Digiboxes. I am simply saying that the technology exists to do it. In any case, if it did happen, a "Callminder" would show the number on its display. More notes from a Sky Installer:- Sky engineers don't (as a rule) connect the orange bell wire and so the STB can't ground the line. We had a lot of BR (Bell Ringing) & BNR (not) problems with customers being driven spare by bizarre happenings to their telephone, so it was decided to drop this procedure. Most of the (cheap and nasty) sockets and adapters TS1 & ES1 we fit, now only have two pins 2+5 anyway. (TS1 & ES1 are the socket and double adapter plug we use to make up the telephone extension lead) We don't charge for replacing cable, but may (should ) charge for CT100 over 20m @ 50p/m. Don't expect your Sky engineer to climb into attics, cellars or over roofs to run your cable. We have strict H&S guidelines to adhere to and can only provide a "Standard Install" as laid out in the contract. Go to an independent if you have special requirements or else lay cables yourself prior to the install date. "Standard" installation guideline: 1 dish/LNB/bracket 4 bolts and nylons(wallplugs) 1 TS1 & ES1 2 F connectors 1 STB (Digibox and connections) 20m CT100/H109F 10m 2pr telephone cable approx. 50p/m for each additional metre. 10x7mm coax clips (yes, this is company approved procedure - we tried to explain but they obviously think washing line cable runs are cool.........although I get to see a few!!). All cable to be surface mounted, no cavity drops, attic runs etc. All additional bracketry costs £39.99 e.g. T+K and pole/patio mount. Chimney lashing kits have been withdrawn so chimney installations are only where possible/necessary and only drilled into double skinned stacks. (And do you know what your chimney is?). Additional cable is 50p/m. All payment to be collected PRIOR to commencement of installation. This is paraphrased from my original document, but is as accurate as I remember it. Telephone cable should be 10m from STB to BT socket, again this is 50p/m Extra cable is charged at the engineer's discretion but not according to policy, just practice. Snotty customers may incur wrath and get stuck with the bill, but it is more time and trouble to collect so doesn't unless it is a very long run and that may involve the engineer recommending the customer attends to this themselves in certain circumstances. There are fixed procedures but not practices. but is at the engineer's discretion. You may choose to fit your own telephone line to a point near the TV if it is a long way or involves an awkward route. BT will do this for you 'at a price' (not cheap), or see a spark who should do it for a fair price and to a standard above the Sky installer's surface-mounted method. Subcontractors have different operational guidelines. Global manufacture TV Link accessories that enable multiple TV link operation. SKY don't install them but Subbies may. Also there is a bypass that enables existing distribution units to be used to carry the RF but the 9V feed for the TV Link can be looped round and so enabling its use on one or more TV but still allowing uncontrolled viewing on other TVs. e.g. TV Link in main B/room and uncontrolled SKY in two kids b/rooms with STB in main room. TV links break easily! Use a lead between it and the TV rather than inserting the box directly into the RF input. It is common practice to insert the male end into the back of the TV and attach the powered feed from the STB to the female end. This is great until the TV is turned to access behind it and ....SNAP! .....the male end breaks off. It is better practice to use a fly lead in this space i.e.. from the link to the TV, so eliminating the risk. The software has been changed for telephone prefix input and will now only accept a single digit, which screws up anyone with mini exchanges that require star or hash prefix or any odd configuration. So if the number is withheld, you can't put the 1 4 7 0 prefix in to make the number "visible". Digital phone lines present problems sometimes, as do some Highway connections, BT can cure this latter. Contact your telephony provider before embarking onto Digital if in any doubt about your equipment. The SKY engineer may well not know more than which end of the lead to put where. Amstrad STB's are class 1 devices and require an earth connection to operate properly. They won't detect a dial tone if the plug isn't earthing because of a cheap plug board or on some PME (Protective Multiple Earth) wiring installations. You can run an earth from the case to say a radiator, which will overcome this, BUT if you have this problem you are at risk of ELECTRICAL SHOCK and should rectify it IMMEDIATELY. Plug the unit directly into a wall socket, and if in doubt consult a spark. Can I change the programmed telephone number? No but you can add a prefix of up to 16 digits. It is believed that the actual number is held in the viewing card. What are the telephone line connections? The telephone line is classed as a Safety Hazard" because it could provide up to 50 volts dc and up to 75 volts ac while ringing tone is present. For this reason you are advised not to touch it. However, you can buy a double-adaptor plug and extension "slave" socket. Simply position the slave socket behind the TV then plug the adaptor plug into the nearest extension socket and plug the existing telephone back into the adaptor plug. Note that all telephone equipment is marked with a REN number, the total of which must not exceed REN = 4 otherwise your phones might not ring or might ring only intermittently. The Digibox REN = 0.5 >I have recently 'upgraded' to Digital and want to take my system on the >road when i go touring on the continent. I have in the past just bundled >up my analog system and set it up when I parked up. > >My question is what happens with the phone line thing that must always >be connected???? Look at it this way: Would you go on holiday and leave *anything* plugged in when there's a risk of lightning? I'm sure I wouldn't. Lightning-induced surge up the telephone line is a very significant cause of Digibox failure. Ask Pace. It can also cause serious damage and fire. So, given that, for safety sake, you *must* disconnect your Digibox when you go away, you might as well take it with you in case your house is burgled. And take the card for the same reason. And, since Sky won't give you a rebate for going on holiday, you might as well use the service for which you are paying! I can't imagine Sky being able to defend their position when the Fire Brigade and Police are continually pleading with people to do as I suggest AND you have paid for the service. >Also can I use an old round dish and LNB or do I need to move my oval >dish and take that with me. You need a dish with a Universal LNB. Why can't I order PPV movies? If you have a problem that, despite everything, you cannot get on line to order pay per view movies, have you B.T.'s automatic exchange based answerphone installed which goes by the name of " Message Minder " (Callminder?). If you have then when your exchange has a message waiting to be listened to, it "modulates" the dial tone with a second tone or more likely it changes the cadence of the dial tone and inserts one second "pauses". In both cases the Sky Digital receiver is unable to "hear" the dial tone and will state that "no line is connected" even though the customer can dial out and most computer modems will function too. Naturally all will work every time a technician visits the house because there are no messages waiting at that particular time !! How do I remotely control my Digibox inside a cabinet? My Amstrad Digibox is located (along with my cinema sound box) in a television unit. I have to drop down the wooden access door to operate my Digibox with the remote control. What do I need to purchase from you to allow me to remotely control my Digibox (in the same room) without dropping down the door everytime? Will the TV Link work?, I want to use all the functions of the remote control, i.e. I need to be able to use the TV & SKY buttons to swap between. Hoping you can help me. The TV Link will work just fine. All you need to do is to plug it into the RF2 output of the Digibox and put the "eye" where you can see it, outside the cabinet. Set the RF2 voltage to "ON" in the menu and that's it. BTW I hope your cabinet is force-ventilated with a fan or fans, otherwise your question, in 12 months, will be: "Can you repair my overheated Digibox?" :o( For more information about wiring up the TV Link please see my booklet "Piping TV Around the House". Order it now Why does my TV link not work? The TV Link requires 9 volts from the Digibox. The current must pass through all connections to the TV Link. You should solder the tips of all TV plugs that are in line with the TV Link. You should also make sure that any wall plates, splitters or amplifiers can pass the current (some wall plates and amplifiers have blocking capacitors fitted!) (See accessories page for more information) If the digibox detects a short circuit on the 'TV Link', it will remove the control voltage. One possible cause of a short circuit is that the Second Outlet Power Supply setting (in the RF Outlets screen) was switched to '0n' prior to physical installation of the TV Link. To remedy this situation, proceed as follows: Display the 'hidden' Installer Setup menu (see page 13). Select option 4, 'RF Outlets'. Highlight the Second Outlet Power Supply setting and switch it to 'Off', then highlight 'Save New Settings' and press the select button. Check for correct installation and termination of the coaxial cable leading to the remote location. Also, check the TV Link module itself and the small cable leading from the TV Link to the Remote Eye. Finally, switch the Second Outlet Power Supply setting back to 'On', then highlight 'Save New Settings' and press the select button. Notes: The TV Link must not be plugged directly into the TV aerial socket as this causes stress that can damage it. Use a flexible coaxial lead. The TV link will not work reliably if you have any form of "splitter" between it and the second TV. The Digibox will turn off the power to the TV Link if it senses a short-circuit. This can occur if you've been careless in fitting plugs to the coax such that a strand of braid can touch the inner core. The power will still be "ON" in the Digibox menu but you have to view that menu to actually make the power come back on. (However, the LED would not be lit if the power was off). The TV Link can give intermittent operation if the coaxial plugs are not soldered to the centre core. The Red LED may indicate a good connection but an intermittent connection (vibration) may leave the LED lit whilst causing corruption of the signal. As with all infra-red devices, the TV Link can suffer from external interference from fluorescent lights, sunlight through moving blinds and other light and RF sources. The TV Link "mouse" is very susceptible to damage if dropped or knocked. The most recent version of Skyguide allows you to do an A-Z programme search. A full explanation of this feature is given on p.37, Issue 5, Sept. 2000 of Sky magazine. This is the free magazine sent out monthly to Sky subscribers. When you first access the A-Z listings you are presented with the "A" programmes first. To view programmes beginning with M you simply press the M button on the remote control. Everything works fine on my main TV it's and on my TV link except for the alphabetical search. Any idea what's wrong? Thanks in advance, Mike. Yes. There appears to be a fault in the BskyB software that allows the Digibox to interface with the TV Link. For more information about wiring up the TV Link please see my booklet "Piping TV Around the House". Order it now What is the purpose of the Computer interface socket? The 1394 digital interface socket is for use by authorised manufacturers only. It is used for testing and uploading new software from a PC but the software required to do this is written by (and copyright to) Sky and, therefore, available only to manufacturers. You will not need to use this socket because the internal software will be upgraded by Sky from time to time overnight via satellite. Can I connect more than one TV? The Digibox can tune in only one programme at a time and this programme can be routed around the house for viewing in other rooms. To assist in this, the Digibox has a second RF output socket. For an additional sum you can buy a remote extender box. This plugs into the RF cable at the remote TV and can send handset signals back to the Digibox. A menu option allows you to select 9 volt power ON for the remote extender. The 9 volt supply will shut down automatically in the case of a short-circuit on RF output 2. To turn the 9 volt power back on, simply access the menu screen and power will come back on automatically, provided that the short-circuit has been removed. The remote extender box and and extra remote is available from SatCure. See accessories page for more information about this. For more information please see my booklet "Piping TV Around the House". Order it now Can I record a different programme? If you want to record a different programme from the one you are currently watching, you will have to record the normal terrestrial analogue TV signal or use a second Digibox (and 2nd smart card if required for that programme). Some Sky PPV movies are protected from being recorded by a "Macrovision" system which is built into all Digiboxes. You can buy a so-called "Macrovision Buster" box from various suppliers (not SatCure). Can I watch or record more than one programme simultaneously? >Do you do (or is there such a thing) as a splitter to enable me to connect >an additional decoder to our Sky Minidish. We are able to watch Sky >Digital on all the TVs in the house, but I would like to have the option >of watching 2 different Sky channels on different TVs. We call it a "receiver" and not a "decoder". A "splitter" will not help. What you need is a different dish fitted with a "twin output" Universal LNB. At present there is no "twin output" LNB available for the standard Sky minidish - hence the need to change the dish. Alternatively, if the dish is out of sight, fit a second minidish and LNB (I have a used one available). You'll need two cable runs. This is the *only* way to watch or record two different digital channels at the same time. Each receiver will require its own subscription card, unless you are happy to watch only the free channels from one. Cards are not transferrable between receivers. Is the Digibox compatible with Widescreen TV, Nicam stereo etc? The Digibox has the capability to handle widescreen transmissions. Nicam is a stereo audio standard used for some analogue terrestrial transmissions and has nothing to do with satellite TV. The Digibox uses MPEG-2 digital audio which gives "near CD" quality stereo sound. It includes the normal Dolby Prologic information whenever this is transmitted - usually with movies - for centre front and rear speakers. Connect via the Phono sockets to your Dolby amplifier. Is there any discount or "trade-in" for my analogue system? Not from Sky, but they will dispose of it for you without charge if you want them to. However, an independent installer might give you a small "part-exchange" allowance if he thinks your existing equipment has any value. Can I use my existing dish for Sky digital? Yes but it will need to have a Universal LNB, high quality digital coaxial cable and must be accurately aligned on 28.2 degrees East of South. Do I get discount for using my existing dish? Unlikely! Is there any advantage in using my existing dish? Yes, a 60cm dish works well even in heavy rain (80cm in the far north). Can I run my existing analogue system as well? Yes. The best way to do this is to keep the two systems totally separate, however you will need planning permission for two dishes (in theory). Another way is to use an 80 cm dish with two LNBs. If your system is motorised you might be able to use a twin-output Universal LNB to feed both receivers. However, you should always "park" your dish at 28.2E when not in use, otherwise you could miss software upgrades and other information (messages) broadcast by Sky. What Symbol Rates are available? Two settings: 27500 & 22000 believed to be limited by the software What Forward Error Correction is available? FEC settings of 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 Can I install the system myself? Yes, in theory, but the LNB skew setting (rotational angle) is very critical. Ideally, you need a spectrum analyser but in practice you can use an ordinary analogue meter with a 22kHz tone inserter (see SatCure accessories page). In addition, the Digibox has an on-screen bar graph indication of signal strength and of "signal quality" (Bit Error Rate detection), plus a "lock" indication which is very helpful. BUT.. as the satellite is 24,000 miles away, the dish alignment is *extremely* critical! You can find it by "quartering the sky" but the method is more tedious than aligning analogue in this way. With analogue you can see the picture instantly when the dish alignment is close. With digital, the receiver needs up to a minute to decode the signal so you have to move the dish then wait, move it then wait ... {o0 ZZzzzzz Another problem - especially with the tiny dish - is the elevation setting. It is MOST important to align the dish for both Horizontal AND Vertical polarisations then recheck them. Failure to do so will often result in the loss of certain blocks of channels either permanently or during heavy rain. How do I motorise my Digibox See below but *honestly* you'll be disappointed! The Symbol Rate is limited to just two so you won't get many extra channels. In addition, the software is not really designed to cope with a moving dish system and you might suffer frequent "lock-ups" which will require you to disconnect the mains power then reprogram the Digibox. It's much better to leave the Digibox as a separate system and buy a good quality FTA digital receiver with a separate motorised dish. How can I program "other satellite"? This is not easy! You can add up to 50 "other" programmes but there is a problem. If the last bouquet that you add contains more programmes than the limit of 50 allows, you will not add *any* of them. Also, each time you disconnect 230v power, the digibox will "forget" your other channels (but see below). The easiest way to cope with this at present is to buy a "learning" remote that has a "multifunction sequence" button. You can teach this button ALL of the digibox key presses needed to reprogram "other satellite" channels. Sneaky, huh? Can you explain how the "Other" menu works for setting up the box for motorised or multi LNB use? In the system setup menu there is the "Add channel" function. Selecting this will take you into the manual tuning menu where you can enter the frequency /symbol rate etc. of free channels. When you select to find these channels it searches for all channels on that setting and lists them. You then store the channels and it places them in the "other channel" listing. However, all of these settings are lost if mains power is disconnected! I have read your Digibox FAQ with interest, and throughout it you say that when the 230V is disconnected from the box, the "Other" channels are lost. This does not seem to be the case with my Pace Digibox (orignal 1998 one). I have disconnected it on numerous occasions and I have never lost any settings. Maybe this is limited to Pace receiver, but seeing that the software is identical in all of them, I don't think this is the case. To be honest I have never had any problems with it, so it may be that I am one of the "lucky" ones :-) Anybody else had experience of this? Please write to me. Martin. How can I get the digibox to receive free-to-air' channels? The digibox is capable of receiving free-to-air (FTA) channels, provided that the channel frequency is in the range 10.7-12.5 GHz and that the symbol rate is either 27.5 or 22.0 Mbaud. You need a second dish with LNB pre-aligned on the satellite of your choice (or a motorised dish). On the Sky remote control, press the services button to display the Services menu. Select option 4, 'System Setup', to display the System Setup menu. Select option 4, Add Channels', to display the Add Channels screen. Here, you can choose the settings for the channel you are interested in. For example, the settings for CNE are as follows: Frequency 11.758 GHz Polarisation H Symbol Rate 27.5 Mbaud FEC 2/3 When you have adjusted the settings, highlight 'Find Channels', then press the select button. The digibox will search for all available channels whose parameters match the settings you have made. The channels are then listed at the New Channels screen. To choose the channels you want to store, first highlight the name, then press the yellow button on the Sky remote control. This places a tick next to the channel name. When you have ticked all the channels you are interested in, press the select button twice. New channels are stored in the Other Channels listing, which you can access from the Services menu. The digibox can store up to 50 such channels. Is there a range of LNB Local Oscillator settings? The LNB LO frequency can be adjusted between 9.75 and 10.75. How do I turn the 22kHz tone off? The tone is automatically switched OFF if you select a frequency of 11.699 or less. Is DisEqc supported? Not yet implemented. Are there any secret menus/ handset codes? Yes. To access the Installer Setup Menu you press these handset buttons without looking at the screen: (note that pressing the zero appears to do nothing - but I *told* you NOT to look at the screen!) Services 4 0 1 Select Then 6 (for new installation) In this menu you will also find version numbers for the software etc. For example: Model No. 0.2.9 EPG 2.1.17a Software version No. 9F0102 Serial No. 003050621 Card No. 000119978 The UHF channel for RF Out is also selected in this menu (the default channel is 68). How do I change the UHF output tuning? The Default UHF channel is 68. If you want to change this go to Services and press: 4 'System Setup' 0 1 Select This will bring you into the Installers menu. Select option 4, 'RF Outlets', to display the RF Outlets screen. Here, you choose an RF channel number between 21 and 69. To store the change you have made, highlight 'Save New Settings', then press the select button. Why are my UHF otput pictures so grainy? You probably have the UHF output tuned on top of an OnDigital terrestrial channel. Try disconnecting the terrestrial aerial to see if this cures the fault. If it does, retune the UHF output channel. Why is there no audio from the RF Output? You are probably trying to use it with a European "PAL-G" standard TV. A conversion is available for the Digibox. See "G-Mod" on the accessories page. Why do my terrestrial pictures have interference lines? Your terrestrial signal is probably too weak. Try fitting a mast head amplifier on the aerial and then fit a suitable attenuator on the input to the Digibox. Read the INTERFERENCE FAQ Also read the information about screened connections on the accessories page. Will the Remote control Handset work my TV/VCR ? The Sky remote control by Philips can work the basic functions of most (95 percent) of the TV sets in the UK. Simply enter the 4 digit code given for your model in the User Instructions. The handset will remember this for the life of the battery and also for up to five minutes during battery swapping. It will not work your VCR. The Sky remote control was designed to work with most TV sets. If it cannot carry out the basic control functions (volume control, channel change, Teletext access etc.), you may have to choose a different setup code. Note, however, that if you have a very old - or a very new - type of TV set, the Sky remote may not be compatible with it. In such a case, you will have to resort to the original remote to control the TV, and use the Sky remote to control the digibox receiver only. Which is the best "Universal" remote? I purchased the "One for All" Topline (URC-550). There is also a Topline 6 and 8 as well I believe. The code for "Sky Digital" is 847 and when I first tried to set up this sat code, "not found" came up on the display. I then telephoned the (free phone I think) number in the hand book 0808 1000306 or 0800 966194 which takes you through to Holland, and they instruct you to set the remote into the "modem mode" and the data is down loaded from the 'phone earpiece into a mic in the back of the remote. Clever!! It then worked! You can set up a number of timed events, setting up an event to bring out of standby and select a channel, then another event to return the digibox into standby. You can include in the above "Macros" controlling the VCR as well if you wish, rather than setting the vcr's clock start. They don't tell you how many events you can set up though?? You have the options of once, daily, or weekly. Will the Digibox receive the digital terrestrial channels ? It will receive only those which are rebroadcast via satellite. Currently BBC1 (regional according to postcode), BBC2, CH4, CH5 but not ITV. Also several radio channels. The Sky Digibox is NOT compatible with digital terrestrial transmissions because, for good technical reasons, the transmission standard is different. To build a multi-standard box would be prohibitively expensive at the present time. You will need a different box for the ONdigital terrestrial channels. How do I get BBC channels and C4, C5 without taking a Sky digital sub ? You can call 0870-243-8000. They will send you a Sky card for free, programmed only for these channels. (You can easily upgrade to Sky programmes later if you wish). Have your UK postcode available. They will also want the Version Number and Serial Number of your Digibox (in the on-screen menu). How do I get BBC from a different region ? Is it possible to set up the system to watch BBC1 and BBC2 programmes from different regions. For example, I live in West Wales and would prefer to watch English programmes when varients are on (i.e. I do not want to watch local rugby matches :-) If it is possible, how can I find the frequencies etc to add the channels? The card is authorised to receive the BBC channels according to your post code area. The card is also linked to the serial number of the Digibox. You are allowed one card per Digibox. The only way around the problem is to get another box and card that are authorised for the relevant post code area. BTW I share your views on rugby! ;o) Will my Sky digital smart card work in my analogue receiver? No. Will my Sky analogue smart card work in my Digibox? No. Will my Sky digital viewing card work in any Digibox? Yes but NOT for the premium channels or BBC for which the card is matched to one receiver. In order to use your existing card for premium channels on a different receiver, you will have to ask Sky to re-authorise the card while it is in the new Digibox. They will require various information including the Version Number and the serial number. A second hand (used) Digibox can be authorised in this way, either with an existing smart card or with a new card. Can I get a digital decoder to plug into my analogue satellite receiver? No, nobody makes one. Will a D2Mac Decoder work if I connect it to my Digibox? No, it won't work. Are the BBC radio stations available from Astra at 28.2E? BBC radio is now available (December 1999) as well as numerous other radio stations. Can I receive any foreign programmes from 28.2E? Yes, CNE (Chinese), two Asian channels and several others. You would have to keep your analogue system and see 19.2E for most others. Where can I find the coverage "footprint" of Astra at 28.2 ? http://www.ses-astra.com/satellites/footprints/ Where can I buy a second hand Digibox? Anyone hoping to buy or sell a secondhand Sky digibox may be interested in a new mailing list, details of which can be found on http://www.angelfire.com/me3/digibox/list.html Also try LOOT, as Colin reports:- a) I got my second-hand Digibox from loot (http://www.loot.com), an advertiser, not far from where I live, was selling his Grundig digibox + antenna etc for UKP85. The subscription had just run out, he didn't want to renew, so I got a bargain. b) I then plugged the digibox (without the antenna attached) to the TV and got up the Service Menu, which provided me with the model, serial number, release number etc. c) I then called the BBC on the number which several respondents gave me, ie 0870-243-8000, and all they asked me for was name and address, tel no., the release number and the serial number. I said "Hey, don't you want the Make and Model? they replied that they could decode that from the release number. d) The card arrived, I inserted it and called the BBC on the same number, they authorised it, and 20 minutes later I had all channels. Can I get Internet Access ? You can buy the "OPEN" keyboard which will allow you to send and receive e-mail messages but you will not have access to the World Wide Web or to USENET News Groups. You will have access to the "OPEN" shopping mall only. Where can I buy the "OPEN" keyboard? From BskyB How do I set the timer to record? At the time of writing there is no timer function in the Digibox itself but ... My Video recorder can send out remote control codes to tell my analogue satellite receiver when to turn on but it won't work my Digibox. What do I do? If you are good with electronics you can build an interface module that can intercept the codes from your VCR and convert them to codes which will be recognised by the Digibox. See this web site for details: http://website.lineone.net/~dezellis Some recent VCRs can control the Digibox directly by means of infrared codes - notably the NVHD675 and NVHD685 from Panasonic. How do I get stereo audio? My Digibox gives great stereo if I connect it to my TV via the Scart connection but I don't get stereo in the lounge which receives the signal from the Didgybox via the RF connection. When I take it to France it's even worse because I get NO audio just a hiss. How do I get stereo? Easiest way is to use a separate audio Amplifier in the lounge and connect it via one of those long phono cables that you can buy from SatCure. See Accessories page. Use the RF connection just for the picture and mute the audio on the TV while you listen to the stereo sound through the amplifier. You can get a cheap stereo amp from places like Tandy (I think) or use a CD/Tape player with an "Aux" input. (I use an Amstrad SRD2000 to get Dolby Prologic surround sound from the Digibox. A Pace MSS1000 will also do this). Can I place the dish behind a window? >I live on the 21st floor of a block of flats in South London. All windows >are on one side and face the wrong way. >This means that I have to use an old broom cupboard to place my satelite dish >in (behind a wireglass window!) and run cable down the corridor >to receive sky. The channels are nearly perfect except for UKG and G+. >Anyhow, if I subscribe to Sky Digital, will the dish still work through my window? >Will I have worse problems? What position will the new dish face? >I would be grateful for your help. >Daniel The Sky digital transmission is very robust, having one error correction bit for every two data bits. This means that it can work with a fairly poor signal. However, there is no transition point through "sparklies" as there is with analogue. You either get a beautiful picture or you get a blank screen. In your case it is impossible to guess which will happen. You would have to try it. It is broadcast from 28.2 degrees East of South instead of 19.2. You would have to reposition the dish. Also, you won't receive any foreign channels from this satellite - only Sky channels. I hope this helps you to make a decision. Should I connect my digibox to my motorised system or not? Steve Carpenter wrote: I have mine connected to a motorised system but not by $ky directly, I called an authorised independent installer (apparently $ky wont do it for you, and tell you so via the digital hotline, but by the technical hotline 0990 102030, they say it is OK). I have a smart priority switch (£20) and have an MSS100IP pace analogue receiver, 80cm motorised dish and 0.4 LNB. It works fine. You can also get the FTA channels as long as they are not SCPC, and the symbol rates are the same as the two on the Sky box. The only bummer is that you have to keep entering manual mode on the Digibox to re-select the analogue carrier each time you want to view a different group of digital channels in an MCPC grouping. I have yet to find a way around this. Ian Carmichael wrote: Oh yes Sky will install. Had mine installed on Monday 5/10/98. No problems whatsoever. I have the digibox connected to my Pace MSS 1000 via the aux scart connector. I use the Johansson IRDA switch to switch between receivers, works a treat. Can't see where you are having trouble adding channels to your digibox. I have about twenty from 19.2E and Eutelsat at 13E. Get the settings from Satcodx.org . Then go into add new channels, fill in the correct frequency/polarisation/symbol rate/FEC and then search for channels. A list of channels will be displayed. Select which channels you require and then they will be available from the Other Channels on the main menu. Much simpler than chasing down analogue channels. I haven't experienced a single 'crash' all the time it's been operating. I do, however, take the precaution of returning the dish to 28.2E when I'm not actually viewing other satellites. About the warrantee. The digibox is covered under the standard 12 month guarantee. The installation is not guaranteed, but then all the installer did was to connect the digibox to the existing coax and the digibox to the tv and phone socket. Howard Pitfield wrote: Got mine attached with a Priority switch to my Pace analogue motorised. All is well. When I watch analogue the dish is moved correctly, when I need to watch digital I can use the remote to move the dish independently. Have managed to load a page and half of FTA stations on 19.2 and 13 E on the Sky digibox OK. It really needs a proper reciever though to pick up all FTA stations. Visit http://www.bayards.demon.co.uk for your 98 holiday.... Andrew Danby wrote: I have installed many motorised systems and integrated MPEG2 dig Rx as well as the MHEG5 Skydigibox as an official installer.You will find the installer will decide on how he is going to do this which is dependent on your existing system (i.e. on type of equipment and how well installed it is.) IF you have a Pace MSS508 then you can simply use one of the scarts and change the LNB but most installers will probably leave your existing analogue motorised system alone and simply install your new dig sys as standalone. Note also no communication is taking place between the sat and your Rx when the dish is moved off the satellite. i.e.the Rx will not respond to any requests from Skydigital. Danby Satellite, Aerials & Security. www.danby.co.uk Simon Gardner wrote: I'm told that one of the little niggles with putting a Digibox onto a motorised system is that the box can misinterpret a signal from another bird as an update instruction. Hence it tends to crash alot. This latter symptom has been noted elsewhere. The advice I got from a $ky engineer was that it even did this when on standby so the safest thing to do was to unplug it when it wasn't on 28.2. :-) Also, all guarantees from $ky are apparently voided if you put it on a motorised system - I was told. Not sure about any guarantee from Pace, Comet etc. Apart from that and the possible need (if you are off 28.2 for a long time) to 'force an upgrade' every now and again - it all should work fine. "VGN" wrote: I've found that to view other channels you have to point your dish at 28.2 first, otherwise you get no signal on all channels found. 13 Degrees and 5 Degrees are fine, however if you point it at 19.2 it seems to crash the software after viewing a few channels (TNT and Cartoon Network do this instantly - although you can view them if you don't change the channel). Digital tuner? Is it technically possible to replace the LNB input tuner in my analogue receiver with one from a digital satellite receiver and make it receive the free to air transmissions? No it's not. A digital satellite receiver is effectively a computer with a tuner and an MPEG2 circuit added. Why does the TV picture sometimes freeze or break up into blocks? There is a number of possible causes for intermittent freezing and so-called "macro-blocking" (pixelisation) of the TV picture. First of all, there may be a fault in the broadcast chain. Such faults are temporary and usually of brief duration, so no corrective action is called for. Secondly, reception of satellite-TV programmes can be affected by adverse weather conditions. The digibox is able to minimise such effects, but will not be successful if the weather is really bad. In this case, the only thing to do is to wait until the weather improves. A larger dish and accurate alignment can minimise such problems. Finally, if the problem occurs in good weather and is common to all channels, it is probable that the cause is poor installation (incorrect dish-alignment, faulty LNB or faulty cabling). Check the whole installation thoroughly. Very occasionally, the fault might lie inside the Digibox itself. What are the factors that affect the Quality reading? I have a second hand Sky Digibox. I use it only for free-to-air channels and use CNN for testing as it appears to have a low output. When I connect to the "minidish" I see 70% signal strength and 30% signal quality. When I connect to an 80cm dish (0.6dB LNB) I see 60% signal strength and 40% quality! What are the factors affecting this reading? Is there any way I can improve this figure? What is the minimum to get a reliable picture? The signal strength reading has little meaning as out-of-band signals and also signals from other satellites can affect this reading. Apart from that, each receiver from the same batch will give a different reading due to component tolerances. I've found that replacing the tuner module has a large effect on this reading. The Quality reading is related to the Bit Error Rate (it's the inverse) so the higher the reading, the better. However, bear in mind that both readings are taken from the "bouquet" that is transmitted by the "default transponder". Each bouquet is a data stream that carries the information for, typically, ten programmes. Without checking, I can't tell you whether CNN is included in the default transponder bouquet. If the picture breaks up in bad weather then the signal quality is not good enough. The usual answer is to use a larger dish, assuming that the coaxial cable is already CT100 standard or better (CT125 for long runs). You can simulate bad weather by fitting, temporarily, a 6dB in-line attenuator. If the picture disappears then you do not have a 6dB "rain margin". Bear in mind that having too high a signal strength can cause problems (it "swamps" the tuner and, if the dish is too large, the LNB as well). I've lost some channels (usually Sky One or the BBC package). How can I remedy this? First of all, you try re-installing the unit. If, after reinstallation, the channels are still not present, you should contact Sky, who will then re-initiate the card-pairing procedure. How do I order pay-per-view programmes? Before you can order a pay-per-view (PPV) event, the viewing card has to be 'paired' to the digibox for this purpose. The procedure is initiated by a 'callback' from the digibox to Sky. Upon successful completion of the callback, Sky will send PPV authorisation to the viewing card, via satellite. So, if you are experiencing difficulties with PPV, first contact Sky to check the status of the viewing card. What causes the on-screen message 'No satellite signal being received? There is a number of possible causes for this 'No signal' message: Bad weather. By its very nature, this is a temporary phenomenon; once the weather conditions improve, the signal should return to normal. The dish is loose or has shifted position, or the LNB is not correctly aligned. Check the alignment of both dish and LNB and check the dish for secure mounting. The LNB cable may be damaged. Check for damage to the LNB cable and for water-ingress. If necessary, replace the cable. The F connector on the rear panel of the digibox is loose. Fasten the F connector securely to its socket. Incorrect settings at the LNB Setup and/or Default Transponder screens. Check the settings of these screens, which can be accessed from the 'hidden' Installer Setup menu. Faulty receiver How do the Scart AV functions work? Most people, whose TV sets are connected to the digibox via Scart, are puzzled by the way their system works. Problems relate particularly to AV-select and widescreen functions. What is going on? Some users are unaware of the functions that a Scart-connected digibox can provide. A user may even come to believe that the unit is faulty. The way that a Scart-connected digibox works is affected by the SCART Control setting (at the Picture Settings screen of the System Setup menu). If this setting is 'On' (the default), then, when the digibox is brought out of standby, a control voltage will be sent from the digibox to the TV set. This will switch the TV set to its 'AV mode' - i.e. the TV will display whatever is being output by the digibox. Now, you may not want to actually watch what is being output by the digibox - for instance, you may want to watch terrestrial television, while recording the digibox programme. In this case, you can press the 'tv' button on the Sky remote control to switch the TV out of its 'AV mode' and then use the number buttons to select the terrestrial TV channel. If the 'tv' button on its own does not switch the TV out of its 'AV mode', you should press the 'tv' button followed by the 'help' button. If this still does not work, you will have to use the TV's original remote control to switch the TV out of AV mode. With regard to widescreen operation, again the way the digibox works is affected by one of the system settings. If you have a widescreen TV set, check that the Picture Format entry (at the Picture Settings screen of the System Setup menu) is set to '16:9'. The digibox will then vary the output on pin 8 of the TV Scart between 6 and 12 volts, dependent on the type of programme being broadcast. If the digibox identifies a 16:9 programme, it will set pin 8 to 6 volts, which will switch the widescreen TV to 16:9 operation. If the digibox identifies a 4:3 programme, it will set pin 8 to 12 volts, which will switch the widescreen TV to 4:3 operation. If the digibox does not work as described above, check that the widescreen TV set is in so called 'Autoswitching' mode (refer to the user manual that came with the TV set). If it still does not work, check that the Scart lead is connected properly. If necessary, replace the Scart lead. For more information please see my booklet "Piping TV Around the House". Order it now How can I find out what version of software is being used in my digibox? It is good practice to check that the unit has the latest software. At the System Setup menu (accessed from the Services menu), select option 5, 'System Details'. The parameters that vary between software revisions are as follows: Model Number Operating System Version EPG Software Version Compare the details which appear on screen with the details from a digibox which has recently undergone an over-the-air download. Alternatively, contact the Manufacturer's Technical Department for latest version numbers. How do I wire my sky digibox to my Pace MSS1000 so I can receive Dolby Surround Sound? Sky digi scart -> Pace AV scart, turn the pace on and select AV Where can I find the reception footprints for Astra at 28.2E ? http://www.ses-astra.com:80/satellites/footprints/index.htm You can also see an instant calculation of elevation and azimuth for your location and you can download a PDF file that lists the transponders. Why do the programme listings disappear occasionally ? For no apparent reason, the programme listings are unavailable when called for on the EPG or via the banner. It will only show the current programme. Sky sometimes appear to have head end problems that can cause the listings to drop out (I'm sure they would not admit to it, however). You may have an installation fault (dish alignment, cable damage) or a faulty receiver. Why don't Videoplus codes work ? Sky do not transmit any video plus information on digital so *no* VCR can control a digibox from video plus codes. All the video plus codes listed in magazines/news papers are for the analogue service only. If you simply want a video that controls the digibox by telling it to turn ON at a specific time and select a 3-digit channel number, then Panasonic do two models. Maybe this could be a feature of your site. What videos will operate the digibox. There is now a few videos on the market that use the EPG from the digibox to operate the video to change the channels on the digibox. Look at the Panasonic & the Toshiba range. The JVC range includes an infrared control that will change the channels (imitating the remote) (although a free upgrade is needed for the newer digibox). This works as I have tried it. Hope this will help if this question comes up again. Gary. I want to install it myself What is the cost of self-installed digital sky TV with standard connection to Sky? I wish to install the sky dish and digibox and I have read your site on that topic and understand whether there is an additional fee for not having a sky engineer install it and also whether by installing it myself I forfeit any guarantee that may normally apply. Yours Most Gratefully Adam You will have to find a dealer willing to sell you a Digibox without installation. The price depends on what profit he wants to make and on what contracts you sign - the BskyB contract and the B.I.B. contract for the phone connection both give you discount. You will forfeit any installation guarantee but not the guarantee on the Digibox (unless it gets damaged by something caused by you - for example installing it in a place that is too hot or too wet or by allowing water to run down the cable etc. or by short-circuit on the LNB cable.) Will the newer Digiboxes work outside the UK? (Why not). AFAIK, the manufacturers are all changing to a "ZIF" (zero I.F.) tuner module which is cheaper but unable to cope with large variations in signal strength between transponders. I would guess that this tuner required a total redesign of the mother board so an early tuner can not be fitted. Why won't PDC work ? PDC is NOT passed through the digital satellite system. How do I force a software download? Switch off the receiver at the mains wall socket. Press and hold the front panel "backup" button and switch the mains power back on. Continue to hold the button for 20 seconds or until the LEDs all light (depends on the make/model). As soon as this happens, you'll see a message on the screen (only if you have connected via the TV Scart). Leave the receiver for at least 15 minutes to download the software via satellite. Note that this will not work unless the receiver is getting a good signal! Can I lock out or remove one channel? No. The "parental control" facility does not give this option and, since programmes are multiplexed together in "bouquets" of up to ten, you can't "filter out" an individual channel by any electrical method. Can I get S-Video from a Digibox? > I bought my Pace Digibox with my BSkyB subscription back in January > 1999. I use the RGB output for my TV and the results are great. I've > >recently bought an S-VHS video and whilst adjusting the setting for > this have noticed that there is no S-Video output on either SCART > socket from the Digibox. I'm a little irritated by this since every > other piece of A/V equipment I have is S-Video compatible. > Considering the potentially superb picture quality the Digibox unit > can output, surely the lack of an S-Video output is a very poor > omission from the spec. Do you know if there is an upgrade available > to enable S-Video output for my Digibox or can you tell me if any > other models by other manufacturers offer RGB and S-Video output as > standard ? Is S-Video output available on any ON Digital receivers ? The manufacturers simply followed the specifications laid down by BskyB. Obviously price was a major consideration so the Digibox doesn't have any more hardware than it actually needs. In fact one manufacturer got hassle from BskyB when they added the digital audio output to their Digibox version. So your complaint should really be directed at BskyB, although I can predict the answer! In the future, I would expect that manufacturers will be selling Digibox receivers with more comprehensive facilities. Of course these will come at a price. No S-VHS upgrade is available because, not only would it need extra hardware but BskyB would have to alter the software, too. It's not a particularly good standard and the next range of Digiboxes with built-in Hard Drive storage will not need it. This information is given in good faith, based on the Sky subscription contract and information from other sources including manufacturers' service information and users' statements. No responsibility will be accepted for errors or omissions. It's up to you to check the facts. THIS FAQ IS NOT APPROVED BY SKY OR BY MANUFACTURERS End of FAQ MLESAT SATELLITE TV TUTORIALS THE DIGITAL SATELLITE TV HANDBOOK: WE GIVE YOU THE WORLD FOR JUST $49.95! Basic Concepts Satellite TV System Components Recent Industry Developments Asian Communication Satellite Systems Satellite TV Archives for the Asia/Pacific e-inSITE: the central Internet jump-off point for accessing the Web versions of 18 different electronics industry magazines and newsletters published by Reed Elsevier company Cahners Business Information. Our tutorial visitors are invited to view his latest feature articles on satellite, broadband, and wireless telecommunication technologies at the e-inSITE portal of Cahners Business Information. Moreover, a weekly TV webcast of the latest electronics industry news called news-inSITE is available for viewing at the e-inSITE home page. 12/15/00 Last updated: 12/15/00 Basic Concepts The Evolution of U.S. Broadcast TV Technology. An overview of the evolution of TV transmission standards in the USA, from the inception of broadcast television itself, to the more recent introduction of encrypted pay TV services via satellite and the long anticipated arrival of the new digital TV (DTV) broadcasting standard for the United States. An excerpt from the new Ninth Edition of The World of Satellite TV for the Americas published in 1999 by The Book Publishing Company of Summertown, Tennessee. Frequencies for Satellite Communications explains how the electro-magnetic spectrum is divided into different segments, each with its own unique properties. The S, C, Ku, and Ka band satellite frequency segments are defined and differentiated from one another. Along the way, a variety of satellite communication terms are defined, including frequency, cycle, wave length, Hertz, kilohertz, megahertz, gigahertz, antenna beam width, long, medium, short, and micro waves, Broadcast Satellite Service (BSS), Fixed Satellite Service (FSS), and frequency re-use. Understanding Digital Video Compression is a basic primer that will allow readers to make the transition from the analog world of yesterday to the brave new digital world of tomorrow. This tutorial explains how the Moving Pictures Experts Group and Digital Video Broadcasting Group have laid out standards for digital video compression which have been adopted by broadcasters world-wide. Key terms which are explained in this section include: analog, digital, bit rate, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, I, B & P Frames, macro blocks, forward error correction, bit error rate, and IRD digital threshold. Satellite Signal Encryption explains in simple terms just how programmers encrypt their satellite TV signals to prevent unauthorized reception. Describes the basic elements of an analog video wave form, how encryption systems manipulate the video waveform, and the important role of unique mathematical algorithms called "electronic keys" as well as the accompanying smart cards and other security features. Also included: an overview of the signal authorization process, basic audio encryption techniques, and conditional access systems in use in the Asia/Pacific region. Satellite Installations contains excerpts from the script of the 52-minute instructional videotape of the same name presented by MLESAT Webmaster Mark Long and produced by Shelburne Films. Selected graphics from the new videotape are also included. This step-by-step tutorial covers locating the satellite arc, azimuth and elevation, terrestrial interference, pouring the pad, assembling the dish, understanding system noise performance, mounting the LNB & feed horn, running the cables, dish alignment settings, antenna tracking procedures, dual-band receiving systems, small dish Ku-band systems, satellite TV receiver and IRD install tips, tuning digital IRDs and how to use a spectrum analyzer. 2001: A Satellite Odyssey. A "crystal ball" view of what's in store in the way of satellite-delivered entertainment and information services in the new millenium. Includes predictions on the convergence of satellite, Internet, and other multi-media delivery systems during the next decade. First published in the November, 1997 issue of SatFACTs magazine. Although the time frame presented in this article back in 1997 may have been overly optimistic, there is no doubt that Ka-band satellites will become a force to be reckoned with by no later than the middle of the first decade of the 21st century. Satellite TV System Components Satellite Receiving Antennas is a complete tutorial covering the various different kinds of antennas used to receive satellite TV signals. First published in Middle East Satellite Today magazine. The klystron is a microwave amplifier that works on the principle of velocity modulation. Since its invention in 1937 it has undergone a number of major developments that have considerably widened the capabilities of the original concept. This book covers briefly the development of ballistic and space charge theory, and many historical references are given, but for the most part it concentrates on the more recent developments of the klystron, which have been aimed at high reliability long operating life and broad frequency coverage. it discusses some of the more common problems found in such a high-voltage, high-power device, and how to minimise them. Applications, both old and new, are also described. Users and manufacturers of klystrons, and researchers in the field, will all find the book useful. Preface It may well be asked why we should write a book on the power klystron at this particular time. After all, the device is generally regarded, by people familiar with the technology, as a mature and well developed engineering component, and it may seem that not much research work has been applied to it for many years. However, this is not strictly true, as quite a number of seemingly small engineering improvements have been made which, taken all together, have revolutionised the capabilities of the power klystron. What began as a narrow-band, expensive to run and cumbersome device, has become a broadband (if that is required), very reliable, cheap to run and streamlined tube for a wide variety of applications. So, we have felt for some time now that there is a need for a book covering the practical problems encountered by both the builders and the users of the klystron. We have made a compilation of our experience over many years of designing and manufacturing klystrons in industry, and including many contacts with people who have the task of incorporating the tube into a complex system. Thus this book is mainly concerned with the practical problems encountered in klystron design and seeks to dispel any myth that the klystron is not a reliable product; on the contrary, it has now reached a mature stage of technological development. Most of the text has been published in papers and books in various forms, but emphasis has been placed on up to-date developments such as extended interaction output circuits (which we also term resonant coupled cavity circuits), periodic permanent magnetic (PPM) focusing for klystrons, and long life electron emitters. As well as covering the basic design criteria, mention is made of the common problems encountered. All too often, text books tend to imply that building devices such as klystrons is not a problem provided the right equations are solved, but this is only part of the exercise. Related devices which utilise a somewhat different form of velocity modulation, such as gyro-klystrons, klystrodes and ladder-line extended interaction klystrons, have not been considered. The authors' experience extends from the early fifties at the Research Laboratories of EMI Ltd., when that Company contributed considerably to high power klystron technology under the very able leadership of Dr K.H. Kreuchen. The work was so successful that a joint Company was established between EMI Ltd. and Varian Associates which was named EMI-Varian Ltd. The Company expanded quickly and its activities branched out into Travelling Wave Tubes and Magnetrons as well, although klystrons remained the products with the biggest turnover. When Thorn Industries and EMI merged in l980, the Company was renamed Thorn EMI Varian, Ltd. Dr Kreuchen retired as Managing Director in 1975 and was replaced by Mr D.E. Tyzack who, in turn, retired in 1990. The collaboration with Varian Associates continued until 1989, when the Company became THORN Microwave Devices Ltd. (TMD) and wholly owned by THORN EMI plc. In 1995 the company completed a management buy-out from Thorn EMI. The authors are particularly grateful for the total co-operation of the management of TMD Technologies Limited, particularly Mr P.J. Butcher the present Managing Director, for making available all the technical documents held by the company which have been used in the preparation of this book. The authors are indebted to several people for help in preparing the manuscript. In particular, they would like to thank Don Tyzack for his assistance with the preparation of many of the diagrams, and also Dr Richard Carter of Lancaster University for helpful discussions and for making his relevant lecture notes available. The authors are also indebted to Dr George Cariotakis for information concerning klystrons used in the Stanford Linear Accelerator and Ms Heather Skinner for her help with the production of the document. Contents CHAPTER 1 Introduction 1.1 Early History 1.2 The Klystron Amplifier 1.3 The Development of the Klystron Amplifier 1.4 The Reflex Klystron 1.5 References CHAPTER 2 Basic Theory of Klystron Interaction 2.1 Principles of Klystron Operation 2.2 Space-Charge Wave Theory 2.3 Harmonics and Noise in Klystrons 2.4 Optimisation of Efficiency 2.5 References CHAPTER 3 Theory and Design 3.1 Basic Design Considerations 3.2 Broadband Frequency Response 3.3 Large-Signal Analysis 3.3.1 One-dimensional Disk Models 3.3.2 Two-dimensional Disk Models 3.4 Relativity Correction Factors 3.5 References CHAPTER 4 Output Circuits 4.1 Introduction 4.2 Single Klystron Cavity 4.3 Effect of load variations on a single cavity 4.4 Double Tuned Cavity 4.5 Resonant Coupled Cavity 4.6 Travelling Wave Output (Hybrid Klystron) 4.7 References CHAPTER 5 Electron Beam Gun 5.1 Introduction 5.2 Gun Design 5.2.1 Cathodes and Thermionic Emission 5.2.2 Considerations of Cathode Loading and Beam Density 5.2.3 Space-Charge Limited Operation 5.2.4 Perveance 5.2.5 Pierce Guns 5.3 Beam Switching Structures and Gridded Guns 5.3.1 Modulating Anodes 5.3.2 Gridded Guns 5.4 Magnetically Immersed Guns 5.5 Design Methods 5.5.1 Analytic Design Methods 5.5.2 Numerical Analysis by Digital Computer 5.5.3 Practical Beam Analysis 5.6 Practical Construction of Guns 5.7 Failure Modes and Problems 5.8 References CHAPTER 6 Electron Beam Confinement 6.1 Introduction 6.2 General Principles 6.3 Magnetic Focusing 6.3.1 Magnetic Principles 6.3.2 Solenoid Focusing 6.3.3 Permanent Magnet Focusing 6.3.4 Permanent Magnet Materials and Principles 6.3.5 Solenoidal Permanent Magnets 6.3.6 Periodic Permanent Magnets (PPM) 6.4 Electrostatic Focusing 6.5 References CHAPTER 7 Tube Components 7.1 Introduction 7.2 Collector 7.2.1 Design Considerations 7.2.2 Power Dissipation 7.2.3 Depressed Collector 7.3 Window 7.3.1 Coaxial Line 7.3.2 Waveguide 7.3.3 "Plug-in" Types 7.4 Driver Cavities 7.4.1 Idler Cavities Input Cavity References CHAPTER 8 Secondary Emission 8.1 Introduction 8.2 Secondary Emission from HT only 8.3 Secondary Emission from HT and rf 8.4 Secondary Emission due to RF fields only 8.5 References CHAPTER Fabrication And Test Fabrication Low Level RF Testing Tuning Range Input Coupling Output Cavity Setting Resistive Cavity Loading High Power Testing Harmonic measurements Phase Pushing Close-to-carrier noise References CHAPTER Applications Introduction Specific Applications Limits of Performance Frequency Power Instantaneous bandwidth Applications in Radar Systems Applications in Communication Systems Applications in High Energy Machines Klystron/System Interface Heater supply HT Supplies Power Supplies to Modulating Element Solenoid Supplies Depressed collector supplies RF input and output Cooling systems Handling Safety Environment References Feedhorns and LNBs describes the relationship between the parabolic receiving antenna, the feedhorn which captures the incoming signal and the electronic amplifier which dramatically increases the signal level. Key terms discussed in this tutorial include: antenna focal point, focal distance and feedhorn illumination taper, low noise amplifiers and block downconverters, noise temperature and noise figure, LNB gain and stability, linear and circular polarization, dual-band feed horns and multi-feed installation. Satellite TV Receivers and IRDs discusses the "ins and outs" of choosing a satellite TV receiver. This tutorial makes a distinction between satellite TV services which are transmitted in an analog format and those which are digitally compressed. Analog TV receivers and integrated receiver/decoders (IRDs) are profiled, with an overview of the various options available. The operational differences and requirements of the new digital IRDs are then compared and contrasted with their analog counterparts to assist owners of analog equipment with making the digital transition. Receiving International Satellite TV Signals an excerpt from The World of Satellite TV, Asian Edition, which explains some of the problems faced by satellite TV installers and viewers who wish to access international satellites with technical characteristics that do not conform to the parameters used by the viewer's domestic satellite systems. Included are suggested hardware and software solutions to solve these problems. Recent Industry Developments Gambling On Digital Convergence: In Las Vegas during the summer of 1999, the American home satellite TV industry collectively faced the biggest series of techno-shocks since high-powered digital DTH services were first introduced back in 1994. Digital convergence is moving from the think tank to boob tube faster than you can "Wink" or sing "I want my Web TV." The startling array of innovative new gadgets previewed in Las Vegas runs the gamut from automated TV guides and hard disk recording devices to HDTV receivers and interactive set-top boxes. Satellite TV, American style is promising to be the "can do anything" entertainment technology of the 21st century as well as the trend setter for much of the rest of the world. Well hold to your hats because its going to be a bumpy ride. HDTV: The Long and Winding Road: For an innovation, HDTV is a pretty old concept. It was twenty years ago when broadcast engineers first proposed the worldwide transition from the analog-based PAL and NTSC TV standards developed during the 1940s to a new high definition television (HDTV) standard with improved resolution capabilities. It wasn't until last year, however, that HDTV became a regular part of the American entertainment universe. What exactly is HDTV, why has it taken so long for HDTV to get off the drawing boards in America, when can we expect this technology to arrive here in Asia and how will the region's transition to this new technology be implemented? These are the questions that this article sets out to answer. Asia's Sound Decisions: Broadcast organizations with a major role to play in Asia have recently made some "sound decisions" concerning the future of digital TV broadcasting. Thanks to a recent meeting of Europe's DVB Group, for example, the Dolby Digital audio system developed by Dolby Laboratories of San Francisco has become an accepted multichannel audio format for digital video broadcasting (DVB) applications worldwide. What's more, several Asia/Pacific nations already have tapped Dolby Digital to be the audio standard of choice for a variety of new digital TV services slated for introduction within the next few years. Here's what Digital Dolby promises to deliver to Asian satellite TV viewers in the new millennium. Asian Communication Satellite Systems The Agila Satellite System: The Mabuhay Philippines Satellite Corporation (MPSC) was established in 1994 as the the result of the efforts of a multinational joint venture composed of telecommunication and broadcast companies based in the Philippines, Indonesia and China. The participants in this joint venture included the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), High Rise Realty Development Corporation, Pilipino Telephone Corp. (Piltel), Beijing High Den Enterprises Limited, Walden Group of Companies, GMA Network Inc., Philippine Satellite Corporation (PSC), Cable Entertainment Corporation (CEC), Siy Yap Group (SYG) and Philippine Communications Satellite Corporation (PCSC). The APSTAR Satellite System: Established in 1992, APT Satellite Holdings Limited (APT) is a Hong Kong based company that provides satellite transponder leases and services for the broadcast and telecommunication sectors of the Asia/Pacific region. In 1999, APT achieved a net profit attributable to shareholders of HK$375 million (1998: HK$59 million). The earning per share was 89.18 HK cents, or a 532 percent increase from the previous year. The company is listed on both the Hong Kong and New York stock exchanges. The Cakrawartha Satellite System: Cakrawartha-1 ("News Weapon" in Bahasa Indonesia) is an S-band (2.5~2.6 GHz) communications spacecraft designed to provide digital DTH services within Indonesia and surrounding countries. The main advantage of Cakrawartha-1's S-band platform is that S-band transmissions are not affected by the rain fade problems which plague Ku-band transmissions in high-rain-rate tropical environments such as Southeast Asia. Within Indonesia, the Indovision bouquets can be received by antennas ranging from 70 cm to 1 meter in diameter. An additional 200 million people in surrounding countries potentially can receive TV signals from this satellite using antennas from 1 to 2 meters in diameter. The signals are encrypted, however, which requires a compatible decoder and subscription authorization. The Measat Satellite System: Licensed by the government under the Malaysian Broadcasting Act of 1988 to provide broadcasting services, MEASAT Broadcast Network Systems Sdn Bhd has been exclusively authorised to provide Direct To Home (DTH) satellite broadcast services in Malaysia marketed under the brand name ASTRO: the All Asia Television & Radio Company. ASTRO currently offers twenty television and ten radio channels to Malaysian subscribers. Future plans call for the new digital DTH service to include a wide range of interactive applications such as impulse pay per view, distance learning, home shopping, tele banking and software downloading. The ST-1 Satellite System: On 25 August 1998, Arianespace launched the ST-1 communications satellite to 88 degrees East Longitude. ST-1 is owned by Singapore Telecom and Taiwan’s Chunghwa Telecom Company, Ltd. The two companies jointly operate the spacecraft from control centres located in Seletar, Singapore and Taipei, Taiwan, respectively. Because of the satellite’s near perfect launch, enough fuel was conserved extend its mission life by three to four months beyond the 12 years that prime contractor Matra Marconi Space had initially projected for the spacecraft. The estimated cost of the satellite, ground facilities and the Ariane launch vehicle that carried it into space was US$ 240 million. The Thaicom Satellite System: In 1991, the government of the Kingdom of Thailand granted Shinawatra Computer and Communications Co. Ltd a 30-year concession to operate communications satellites for the country. Shortly thereafter, Shinawatra signed a US$ 100 million contract with Hughes Space and Communications Company governing the kingdom's first spacecraft, ground equipment and training of Shinawatra employees as satellite controllers. The system was named "Thaicom" by His Majesty King Bhumiphol to symbolise the link between Thailand and modern communications technology. Satellite TV Archives for the Asia/Pacific Region (1995 - 1998) Orbital Congestion in the Asia/Pacific Region. Between now and the dawn of the new millennium, more than twenty new geostationary satellites will begin providing services within Asia and the Pacific Rim. My own estimates suggest that there will be 30 percent growth in the number of C-band transponders and as much as an 85 percent increase in the number of Ku-band satellite transponders serving the region by the end of the year 2000. Finding a good orbital slot for all these new systems has become a major headache for the region's leading satellite manufacturers and operators. India's Dream Beam. With India's population rapidly approaching the one billion mark, it is no surprise that satellite operators and programmers world-wide have set their sites on the world's largest open market for direct-to-home (DTH) satellite TV services. For years now, large C-band satellite dishes have been sprouting up across the Indian subcontinent like mushrooms. Hundreds of thousands of Indian homes now receive satellite TV broadcasts directly, while millions of additional households watch satellite TV programming courtesy of their local cable TV operators. Off the Beaten Track in Far North, New Zealand. Far North New Zealand is not an area normally known for hosting major conferences, cable, satellite or otherwise. Normally held each year in Auckland, the 1998 SPRSCS (South Pacific Region Cable & Satellite Systems) conference for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific moved off the beaten track and into previously undiscovered territory in the Far North region of the country. Along the Asia/Pacific Satellite Superhighway. On January 24, 1996, the exhibition hall at the South Pacific Cable & Satellite 96 (SPCS 96) conference held at the University of Auckland, New Zealand, was buzzing with excitement as a clear PAL feed of STAR TV's Mandarin Channel came booming in from the new AsiaSat 2 satellite. As the New Zealanders like to say, 'Good on you, AsiaSat!' Southeast Asia On 99 Channels A Day. "You won't get many channels with a six foot dish," said one of the installers, the pitch of his voice lilting up and down as he spoke in rapid-fire Thai. 'Don't worry,' I responded. "I used to have a 20-footer in America but these days I'm more interested in seeing what small dishes can do in this part of the world." The New Stars of Arabia. With last year's successful launch of a new crop of powerful dual band satellites, home satellite TV has finally come of age in the Middle East. In March of this year, more than 10,000 visitors from Europe, Asia and the Middle East travelled to Dubai to attend the second Middle East International Cable and Satellite show. The exhibition marked the emergence of digital satellite broadcasting as a major force in the Middle East. New regional programmers such as Orbit, Multi-channel Middle East and SHOWTIME strutted their digital stuff, dazzling attendees with a plethora of new digital TV services which can be received by antennas as small as 60 cm in diameter. Russia's Statsionar Satellite System. Back in the early 1980s, would be satellite TV enthusiasts living outside of North America found slim pickings in the skies overhead. In Europe, Africa and the Middle East, for example, the low power INTELSAT and Symphonie (France) satellites of that era carried only a few TV services. To get a viewable picture, one had to use a very big dish (4.5 meters in diameter or greater) as well as undertake periodic hand cranking of the antenna's actuator arm to keep those wobbling inclined orbit birds within the antenna's main beam. In the era just prior to the launch of the very first EUTELSAT Ku band satellite, about the only reasonably strong C band satellite TV signals in the European sky came from Russian satellites. New Kids On the Block. The direct-to-home (DTH) satellite market in Asia currently is being dramatically transformed by the recent successful launch of several new satellites and the parallel announcement of new digital satellite TV services for various markets throughout the region. By the year 2000, it is estimated that Asia will have about fifty million homes receiving satellite TV services, either directly via satellite or indirectly through cable or MMDS delivery systems. And once the People's Republic of China gets into the swing of things around the year 2005, a projected 130 million homes just in China will be able to receive satellite TV services, albeit indirectly via their local cable systems. That's why News Corporation's Rupert Murdoch was more than willing to write off an US$ 80 million loss at STAR TV during 1995 as long as it kept him in the running for a major share of this exponentially growing TV market. The Big Chill. Despite a series of economic crises which have affected monetary systems and financial institutions throughout Southeast Asia, many satellite operators continue to forge ahead with their respective plans to dramatically expand satellite capacity for the region. In all fairness, it should be noted that these operators originally conceived their plans during better economic times, when currency exchange rates were stable and annual economic growth rates of 8 to 10 percent were the norm. With local economies now struggling to fight off a financial "Big Chill"--even in traditionally stable markets such as Malaysia and Singapore--many analysts are beginning to wonder if the voracious demand for satellite capacity in this part of the world will actually materialize as previously anticipated. THE DIGITAL SATELLITE TV HANDBOOK: WE GIVE YOU THE WORLD FOR JUST $49.95!