Description
The Model UC-4 Universal Upconverter uses custom ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuitry) technology to provide four independent IF to RF upconverter modules in a single 1.75” (1 RU) chassis. The use of ASIC technology allows each upconverter module to consume approximately half the power of traditional upconverters while maintaining a physical footprint of less than half the size, plus provide superior performance specifications in a very small package. Each upconverter module produces a high-quality RF signal that is frequency agile between 54 MHz to 871 MHz. The Model UC-4 Upconverter is truly universal in that it can accept any traditional digital (43.75 and 44 MHz) or analog (45.75 MHz) IF signal. By designating either analog or digital input types, an on-board microprocessor automatically compensates for any differences in level or frequency that can occur between the two formats.
The Model UC-4 Upconverter can be controlled using the eight multipurpose front panel push buttons or with external communications via an optional serial port. A large, back-lighted liquid crystal display (LCD) provides easy set-up and monitoring of all functions. Four RF test ports are also provided on the front panel, one port for each of the four RF outputs from a single chassis. Other front panel features include a data port for flash updating imbedded firmware, and color-coded status indicators for power, internal alarms, and communication/memory activity.
The Model UC-4 Upconverter is available as a basic unit or with two optional cards for further feature enhancements. A plug-in "Options Board” provides multiple IF inputs for use with alternate programming and/or EAS requirements. A single options board provides connectors for all four upconverter modules within a single chassis. Other features of the options board include a serial port for Status Monitoring and Control (SMC), an external backup bus for channel redundancy, and a dry contact closure for porting possible alarms to ancillary (sight or sound) indicator devices within the headend or hub. The other available option is a plug-in -48 Volt DC powering feature that allows for an automatic backup powering method in cases where AC power has been disrupted, or as the main powering method when AC power is not used. Both optional cards are available preinstalled in factory versions of the upconverter, or as field installable upgrades for existing installations.
Features
• Compact ASIC technology allows four upconverter modules in a 1.75” rack (1 RU) mounting space
• Designed to meet NTSC and DOCSIS guidelines for the transmittal of NTSC and DOCSIS signals
• 20 dB improvement of close-in phase noise greatly reduces any contribution caused by the upconverter in Bit Error Rate (BER) measurement when used with QAM or other digital signals
• Proprietary frequency synthesis method within the ASIC provides superior rejection to externally induced vibrations/microphonics
• Fully compliant with HRC, IRC, and STD channel plans
• "Network ready” for unmanned headends or hubs. Provides remote status monitoring and control for all features and functions using optional serial port and Scientific-Atlanta TNCS software.
• Optional -48 Volt DC capability can be field upgraded
• Optional alternate IF input with automatic switchover from main to alternate input if main program is lost. Independent EAS IF input overrides both main and alternate port.
• Flash update of imbedded firmware allows for on-going software revisions and optional "special frequency plans"
S-A Universal Upcon...
