Technological Know-how is the Deciding Factor

By: Jorg Schmidt, DEV Systemtechnik GmbH & Co. KG
( 1 Mar 2008 )

The future belongs to high-definition formats—as well as to large cable head end stations. The quality of RF signal transmission within a head-end is one of the key factors. Optical systems provide the required signal quality and reliability. Successful conception and implementation depend on the know-how of the manufacturer and the capabilities of the integrator—and, last but not least, on the quality of collaboration between the both.

MORE SERVICE
In Belgium, Spain and England, and also in Asia, millions of subscribers are today served by a single head end station—and this is a continuous upward trend. Only a few years ago, the numbers ranged between 300,000 and 400,000 subscribers. Powerful redundancy concepts are essential in order to not only provide protection against meteorological influences, but also to set up reliable RF infrastructures. Furthermore, operators want to increase the reliability of remote maintenance and management functions, while at the same time reducing operational costs. After all, the consolidation of subscribers on a single head end station is aimed at significant cost cuts. Thus, state-of-the-art components are such that enable the remote measuring and setting of both analogue and optical components. The remote monitoring of real signal values or the setting of thresholds and alarms is not only technically feasible, but already a reality for some manufacturers.

The first step is always the technical implementation. The question as to who develops the concept and carries out the implementation is not only a matter of know-how. Operators with substantial expertise in RF technology and fibre optics could also handle large projects in-house. Nevertheless, large projects often require general contractors who provide integrated one-stop solutions. General contractors take both the risk and responsibility for delays. System integrators as well as end-customers need a reliable manufacturer who provides easy ordering and quick delivery. Even manufactures of individually configurable components deliver within three working days. At the same time, they have also run endurance tests of the components—a mandatory quality requirement.

MANUFACTURER AND INTEGRATOR
Poor coordination and confusing product portfolios are the two main reasons for project delays. The fact that a manufacturer's product portfolio ranges from air to receiver, though indicative of the effort to harmonise the products, does not guarantee a simplified conception, because all components have to be mutually compatible. The lack of common standards often leads to problems in the combination of components from different manufacturers—and this is not limited to optical systems. For example, with regard to analog components, interface problems are often caused by impedance jumps.

A system provider offering an integrated portfolio including technically compatible products can minimises these risks. Concept flaws are avoided and planning times reduced. Thus, project costs can be cut by up to 15 percent—even in relation to the operators' cost estimate. Therefore, system integrators usually coordinate their plans with the manufacturer, in order to reassure themselves. Manufacturers often measure the specifications with the objective to achieve maximum results. This results in the neglect of other values, which may drop below the required tolerances. The consequence: problems with regard to the performance of components and the compatibility with other systems. A close and fair collaboration between integrator and manufacturer is thus of crucial importance.

Concept development, technical implementation and the selection of the partner are decisive for making the established solution a safe investment.