Unit 7, Collis Business Park, Queens Drive, Burntwood, Lichfield. WS7 4QF.

Registered Installer. EFSR03004728

Local Businesses

Tel: 01543 307072

Communal Aerials Systems.integrated reception systems. MATV.SMATV

IRS ( Integrated Reception System ) are the most commonly installed systems within multi-dwelling property developments where planning stipulates a limited number of aerials and dishes can be installed on the property. The IRS system is aimed at being a full digital reception system allowing residents to watch analogue and digital terrestrial television (Freeview), satellite channels commonly (Sky digital) but other satellites can be received for the benefit of multi-lingual residents. It will also allow residents to receive FM and DAB (Digital Audio Band) radio. CCTV cameras can also be added so residents have the ability to view areas outside the building such as car parks or entrances directly on a channel on their TV.

The system utilizes one CAI benchmarked TV Aerial, FM omnidirectional and DAB aerial (on one rig) and a satellite dish to service any number of points,( Sky+ & Sky HD) are standard on our install. A head-end unit normally a Multiswitch is installed to receive, process and combine the signals and then distributes the signals through digitally screened coaxial cables via a network to outlet plates in each dwelling, which then separates the signals back into TV, Satellite and Radio.

Right from the initial conception to final completion Active Aerials & Systems will support you by providing a first class service.

At the planning stage, if it is an existing property which would benefit from an IRS upgrade, we will carry out a full site survey and will submit a detailed description of the existing system and our proposed upgrade program, including – signal test results, replacement equipment specification and location, discrete cable network layout, method statements and risk assessments. In addition, if the project is a new build we are able to work off-plan to provide you with consultation on the system design and network architecture.

Most importantly, you will find us helpful and informative

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A SMATV system allows the owner of a building to control the type and quantity of channels to be sent through the coaxial cable network to the TVs in the building.

These systems are typically installed in hotels and holiday resorts to provide guests with a wider range of channels without incurring the extra cost and security issues of fitting Satellite or Freeview boxes in rooms.

A head-end unit is installed to receive the signals from a digital aerial, satellite dish or both. The head-end unit then processes the signals into a range of channels which have been pre-selected by the owner and distributes the selected channels to each point.

Guests can therefore access normal terrestrial channels as well as the selected satellite or Freeview channels independently of each other. For example, a 12 channel system could comprise of BBC1, BBC2, ITV1, CHANNEL 4, 5, Sky News, Sky Sports News, ITV2, BBC3, Cbeebies, Filmfour and Radio 2.

The choice of available channels is massive from terrestrial aerial transmitters to thousands from the various satellite broadcasters. Depending upon the type of televisions it is possible to provide plenty of viewing choice for guests. It is also possible to generate and integrate information and DVD channels into the system.

A MATV system is very similar to an IRS system but does not enable the use of satellite signals. In its simplest form it will be an aerial on a house feeding two points. A more complex installation will involve a digital aerial, FM and DAB aerial (on one rig) to service any number of points.

A launch amplifier is installed to receive, process and combine the signals and then distributes the signal through a digitally screened coaxial cable network to an outlet plate, which then separates the signal back into TV or Radio.

Typically a MATV system was cabled using a single “trunk” feed cable which is then tapped off in groups of 1-8 points. However, it is becoming more popular to cable this kind of installation using a “star” network which feeds a larger number of points in zones fed directly from the aerial rig.

The main advantage of this network is that it is more cost effective to upgrade to an IRS system in the future.

These days MATV systems are usually only installed in affordable housing or Public Sector establishments such as prisons or hospitals, where cost and viewing restrictions apply. The lower cost of these systems has no effect on our approach to providing the design and installation, we will work very closely with you to ensure you receive the best service possible.

MATV systems were popular in housing developments before the advent of SKY and IRS

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