Alternative starBOX Expanded Configurations

In some cases, consumers are not clear about their additional choices for viewing existing ancillary equipment in a bedroom or other remote room. Those that have distribution around the home could enhance their viewing choices by investing in starBOX RF hubs to distribute Freesat™ PVR, cable, BT Vision™ or any other AV device around the home.

The older TVs in nearly all remote rooms will have the analogue tuner available for this purpose, and the analogue tuner is no longer used in areas that have switched over, leaving plenty of scope to add another channel or two.

Using Additional Modulators

The starBOX was originally designed to allow distribution of RF2 of a Sky™ receiver to multiple rooms. It is, however, possible to deliver other service platforms using a modulator. By combining the outputs of modulators with a proSPL splitter, more than one device can be distributed.

Large-Scale starBOX Installations

By using additional ancillary equipment, starBOX systems of up to 20 outputs are achievable. This suits large properties or small hotels. It is unsuitable for flats due to isolation requirements. The 15- or 20-way system also lets a business distribute personalised advertising to visitors.

The following diagrams show typical wiring requirements for:

• Freesat™ (including PVR)
• Products with RF loop-through
• Products without RF loop-through

Signal Considerations

The 20-way starBOX RF Hub systems do not need to co-exist; they can be at separate ends of a large loft, reducing cable runs.

VHF radio signals usually tolerate the ~3.5 dB splitting losses through the proSPL204 (two-way splitter). In very weak areas, a larger Band II aerial or a proAMP12 (broadband amplifier) may be required.

Splitter loss (~4 dB) on the UHF return path rarely causes problems as there is gain through most set-top-box loop-throughs.

Wiring Diagrams

15- or 20-Way starBOX System for Freesat™ (inc. PVR)

15- or 20-Way starBOX System for Products WITHOUT RF Loop-Through

15- or 20-Way starBOX System for Products WITH RF Loop-Through