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Sky™ I/O Replication
iO-LINK Compatibility for Multi-Room Installations
This guide explains how PROception products can be used with iO-LINK and proLINK22 systems to support multi-room TV distribution, remote eye control and RF signal distribution in compatible legacy Sky™ installations.
Legacy system note: This guide relates to older Sky™ and RF distribution systems where analogue RF modulation, remote eyes and RF2-style control are required.
Applicable PROception Products
The following PROception products are relevant to iO-LINK, proLINK22 and multi-room distribution applications.
| Product | Product | Product |
|---|---|---|
| proAMP12R | proAMP104X | proSAT1EYE |
| proAMP24R | proAMP310X | proLINK22 |
| proMHD14R | proAMP28R | proSPL204 |
| proSTR5S | proSTR10S | proPSA125 |
Why iO-LINK Compatibility Matters
Older Sky™ boxes such as the DRX595 and DRX890 series no longer provide a UHF modulated output. This means they do not provide a traditional powered RF2 connection for distribution to other rooms. Instead, they use the iO-LINK accessory connection.
A key difference between iO-LINK and RF2 is the available current for powering remote infrared eyes and associated amplifiers. The iO-LINK is intended to power one eye, whereas RF2 on older receivers could power a typical 4-way distribution system, up to approximately 75 mA.
For larger multi-room systems, use a suitable powered amplifier or powered distribution product rather than relying on the iO-LINK alone.
Using proLINK22 with iO-LINK Systems
The proLINK22 plugs into the accessory I/O port of compatible newer Sky™ HD set-top boxes. It provides a modulated PAL output together with the remote control power facilities originally associated with RFOUT-2.
An aerial loop-through facility is also provided. When combined with suitable PROception amplifiers and accessories, the proLINK22 can support multi-room systems, allowing users to watch and control their Sky™ receiver from other TV rooms in the property.
proLINK22 Features
- Replaces the missing RF outputs on compatible newer Sky™ receivers.
- High-quality UHF modulator with infrared return remote control capability on both twin F-type RF outputs.
- Simple channel setting using the Sky™ box menu.
- Two remote rooms can be wired directly from the proLINK22.
- Can support larger systems when used with a suitable amplifier and power supply.
- Two-colour power status indicator.
- Wall mountable with extended 500 mm lead.
Note: This requires PROception proSAT1EYE IR eyes. Recommended splitter: proSPL204.
Infrared Eye: proSAT1EYE
For a simple single extension room, only a proSAT1EYE infrared eye is required. Larger systems will normally need a suitable amplifier to distribute the signals and power the eyes.
- Installer-favoured remote eye.
- Compatible with iO-LINK.
- Low current consumption, typically 5 mA.
- Wide working voltage range.
- One remote room usually requires no additional amplifier or PSU.
Mains Powered Return Path Amplifiers
| Maximum Ways | Amplifier | PSU | VHF |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | PROAMP12R | - | No |
| 4 | PROAMP24R | - | Yes |
| 8 | PROAMP28R | - | Yes |
- Traditional return path amplifiers.
- Compatible with iO-LINK.
- Available for two, four and eight output installations.
Note: The 4-way and 8-way amplifiers have a separate VHF input covering Band II FM and Band III DAB with dual bandpass filtering. Any VHF feed must be connected to this input, not routed via the iO-LINK.
starBOX Products
| Maximum Ways | starBOX | PSU | VHF |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | PROSTR5S | - | Yes |
| 10 | PROSTR10S | - | Yes |
- Combines LNB and terrestrial feeds to a master outlet plate.
- UHF return and VHF inputs are distributed to 5 or 10 room outputs.
- Compatible with iO-LINK.
Connect the feed from the iO-LINK to the UHF return input and any VHF feeds to the relevant amplifier inputs. Refer to product literature and instructions for the full capabilities of each product.
Flexible Line Powered 4-Way Amplifiers
| Maximum Ways | Amplifier | PSU | VHF |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | PROAMP104X | PROPSU11F | No |
| 4 | PROMHD14R | PROPSU11F | No |
- Versatile dual-mode amplifiers.
- Flexible powering options.
- Compatible with iO-LINK when used with the recommended PSU.
- PROAMP104X is a compact 4-way amplifier for indoor use only.
- PROMHD14R is a masthead-style amplifier suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
Note: The PSU can be located anywhere in-line between the iO-LINK and the amplifier. Do not attempt to power proAMP104X with a local DC power unit such as proPSA125 for this application.
Flexible 10-Way Amplifier
| Maximum Ways | Amplifier | PSU | UHF |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | PROAMP310X | PROPSA125 | Yes |
- Versatile dual-mode amplifier.
- Flexible powering options.
- Compatible with iO-LINK when used with the recommended PSU.
- Local powering option using proPSA125.
- Connect the iO-LINK output directly to the UHF input of the amplifier.
- Connect any VHF feeds to the relevant amplifier input.
Using Passive Splitters
A 2-way passive splitter such as the proSPL204 can be used with the iO-LINK to power two PROception eyes without an additional amplifier or power unit. However, this is not a recommended configuration because the iO-LINK is designed to power one eye only.
Passive splitters must have DC power-pass capability to power multiple eyes. If one split leg is connected directly to a TV receiver without an eye, it may short the 9 V power to the eyes on the other legs. This risk is avoided by using a proper IR-capable amplifier designed for this purpose.
Troubleshooting iO-LINK and TV Eye Installations
No picture and proSAT1EYE LED is not lit
Check all plugs, cables and connections. If the LED is not lit, this usually suggests one of the plugs is incorrectly fitted, shorted or not connected.
No picture but proSAT1EYE LED is lit
The TV may not be tuned to the modulated channel from the Sky™ box or proLINK22. Re-tune the TV and ensure it is in analogue tuning mode rather than DTT mode.
Picture is present but the remote does not work
- Check any wall plates are power-pass type.
- Check RF2 power is enabled where applicable.
- Check for shorts or breaks on all plugs and cables.
- Confirm that the distribution amplifier is return-path compatible. In the PROception range this is identified by the letter R at the end of the part number, for example proAMP28R.
- Ensure the TV is not outputting 5 V masthead amplifier power, as this may affect the remote eye.
Best practice: Troubleshooting should usually start by taking the system back to a simple direct connection, then adding each part of the installation back into the signal path one stage at a time.
Installation Examples
Using PROAMP310X, PROSAT1EYE, PROLINK22 and local power via proPSA125. |
Using PROAMP310X, PROSAT1EYE, PROLINK22 and remote power via PROPSU11F. |
Using PROSPL204, PROSAT1EYE, PROLINK22 and power via the Sky™ box. |
Trade Marks
Sky™ is a registered trade mark of British Sky Broadcasting plc. tvLINK™ is a registered trade mark of Global Invacom Ltd.