Labgear has introduced two new amplifiers to compliment its existing range of reliable distribution equipment. The MSR 120 ( two way) and MSR 140 (four way) are multi- output amplifiers which can be installed alongside infra-red remote control links to extend Sky digital home entertainment systems.

The installation of these amplifiers enables the distribution of digital television to up to four TVs in one home.

Consumers can not only receive high quality pictures on these secondary TVs, but with the amplifiers dual-function return path, they can also control the digibox’s channel programming via an additional Sky remote. All outputs can be used for remote control return to the digibox which maximises viewing options.

The amplifiers are designed to support Labgear’s Digilink remote control extender kits, but are also compatible with the Sky TV link eye making them suitable for a wide range of domestic applications.

The amps have a gain of 4-6dB and cover the frequency range of 88-862MHz. Unlike some amplifiers which draw their power source from the Sky digibox, the Labgear amplifiers are supplied with their own mains connection. This not only reduces power consumption from the set-top-box, but also ensures a more reliable system throughout.

The amplifier provides a power supply to the infra-red extender, which again alleviates the pressure off the digibox and enhances the performance of the distribution system.

The self-contained nature of the amplifier means that the infra-red signals are passed back along the input cable coming from the Sky digibox. Therefore, it does not have to be positioned next to the equipment but can be placed at any convenient location within the distribution system.

The diagram below clearly demonstrates how the amplifier can be used in a domestic location to distribute digital satellite television to more than one TV.