As BSkyB prepares to turn off all analogue transmissions broadcasting from Astra 19.2, thousands of hotels and other large complexes around the country will require new digital satellite systems in order to continue to provide their guests with Sky programming.

Global Communications has launched a fully integrated SMATV Digibox Rack, enabling installers to perform digital upgrades with speed and simplicity.

The rack, which can hold up to five digiboxes, is housed in a secure lockable cabinet and has been designed to incorporate a Satellite Master Controller (SMC). This system automatically reboots and resets the digiboxes if it recognises a mains failure or a picture deficiency. Therefore, engineer call outs are minimised and channel programming is reinstated more quickly. For added security, the SMC can also be locked using a pin code to ensure configurations cannot be altered.

Other integrated features include a 5x6 Global IF multiswitch, a PSU and a five channel wideband equaliser for levelling the RF output of the digiboxes before amplification and distribution. Cooling fans are located on the inner shelf to keep the digibox temperatures within normal operational parameters. The cabinet is pre-wired for all five Sky digiboxes, so even if you only initially install two set-top boxes, additional receivers can be installed at a later date.

Channels can be easily changed according to the customer’s requirements when the cabinet door is unlocked. Encryption codes and software upgrades are automatically updated and cards can be changed without dismantling the front panel.

The SMATV unit can be conveniently incorporated into most hotel systems which already have a SMATV system in place. In most cases it is just a matter of repositioning the satellite dish, fitting a Quattro LNB and adding the relevant splitters if more than one cabinet is to be used. The flexibility of the rack means that it can also be installed alongside many existing services including CCTV and Digital Terrestrial Television.