The following is a few questions with there answers which I think some people may wish to ask, feel free to ask other questions about the RF link amplifer:-
Q - Is there more than one type of RF amplifier ?
A - Yes, there are two types -- Type 4052 which has a frequency range of 40 to 860 Mhz and a Type 4053 which has a frequency range of 87 to 860 Mhz for transmission and 5 to 65 Mhz for use as a return path.
Q - What is the "Return Path" ?
A - The return path is intended for Set-top boxes which have return communication with the distributor of programmes, for example Pay-per-view
Q - Why is the return path using frequencies 5 to 65 Mhz ?
A - This range of frequencies is part of the Band I which in most countries is no longer used for TV transmissions any more.
Q - What happens if I am in a country which still uses the band 1 frequencies for TV transmission ?
A - Then you must use the Type 4052 which does NOT have a return path
Q - Can I use the RF link amplifier if I am on a cable system like NTL ?
A - Yes PROVIDED you fit a Galvanic Isolator
Q - What is a Galvanic Isolator ?
A - To avoid ground loops or other electrical potential differences, the Galvanic Isolator MUST always be used when the RF link Amplifier is connected to a cable network
Q - Are there any other times when I may need to use a Galvanic Isolator ?
A - Yes if you are in a building feed by different mains supplies for different TV's feed from the link amplifer or the building is feed by a three phase supply, normally commerical buildings and each TV is connected to a different mains phase.
Q - Can I purchase a Galvanic Isolator from B&O
A - Yes, it has a part number of 8039004
Q - Does the Galvanic Isolator reduced the signal ?
A - Yes a little, in fact the attenuation is about 0.5 dB
Q - What is a dB ?
A - In the context of this FAQ it is a unit of measure of signal strength, usually the relation between a transmitted signal and a standard signal source. Every 3 dB = 50% of signal strength, therefore a 6 dB loss = a loss of 75% of total signal strength.
Q - What is the longest cable length which can be connected to each Input/Output ?
A - Using standard 75 ohm aerial cable the recommended maximum length is 30 metres, but if you good quality double screened cable you can get to 60 metres with only minor loss of signal. I have tested lengths of CT100 and FT100 cable up to 100 metres with totally acceptable results.
Q - I currently have a aerial amplifier, but when I use it I sometimes get interference particularly when my son is flying his model plane, will I have the same type of problems with the B&O RF link Amplifier ?
A - No because the signal entering the link Amplifier first goes through a high-pass filter which allows only frequencies higher than 27 Mhz to pass, so excluding interference from many things including walkie-talkies and radio controlled models.
Q - Can you please describe the connections to the FR Link Amplifier
A - This is best done with a picture as below
Q - I am in the UK, which Type number should I purchase ?
A - For the UK and almost all of Europe you should purchase Type 4053 which has the return path
Q - I live in the US, so which should I use
A - That will depend where you live in the US and if you get your signal via an aerial or cable, if cable then use Type 4053, if your main source is via an aerial, then you would have to consult your local B&O dealer to determine if band 1 freqencies are used in your area.
Q - What does a typical link setup look like when using the B&O RF Link Amplifer
A - The picture below best describes a typical configuration
Q - I noticed that the RF Link Amplifer has only four (4) outputs, but I have 5 link TV's, how should I configure the system for 5 TV's
A - If the cable lengths are not to long, then you can just use a splitter as shown above, otherwise you can use a second RF amplifier adjusting the switches on the second amplifer to reduce the signal into the second unit
Q - What does a splitter look like ?
A - The picture below is of a high quality splitter
Well that is all the questions I can think of at present, but if there are others then please post your questions.
Location: Hampshire, England
