The (Receive) Antenna Distribution System performs the superficially straightforward job of connecting radio signals from antennas to receivers. Depending on the numbers of antennas and receivers involved, the Antenna Distribution System might be simple or complex. CommsAudit can provide and/or install Antenna Distribution Systems to any level of complexity.
The main types of building-block involved in an Antenna Distribution System include the Multicoupler, a unit that can output several copies of an RF signal input, and the Switch Matrix, a unit that can route one or more input signals to two or more outputs under remote control. CommsAudit can supply and/or install Antenna Distribution System ranging from 2-input, 2-output, up to 64-input, 128-output, in VLF, LF, MF, HF or V/UHF frequency bands and beyond. Custom mixed frequency-band systems can be supplied.
The technical challenge for Antenna Distribution System design is to minimise degradation in the quality of a radio signal during transit to a receiver. CommsAudit Antenna Distribution Systems are designed for:
- high dynamic range, meaning that unwanted harmonic and intermodulation products are avoided
- low levels of cross-talk interference between RF paths
- low noise figure, so that weak signals can still be detected
As with all CommsAudit equipment, Built-In TEst (BITE) features to indicate unit and/or localised temperature, DC supply health, and input and output RF power levels where appropriate, can be included, as required. The BITE monitoring runs on the same platform as the Switch Matrix control, so that a unified Graphical User Interface is presented for the complete system. User interfaces can be customised to meet specific requirements.
The systems can embody lightning/EMP protected inputs, and 'phantom' powering for masthead amplifiers or active antennas, if required.