RFS Introduces New High-Capacity Filters for DTV Transmitters


Las Vegas, Radio Frequency Systems (RFS), the global wireless and broadcast infrastructure specialist, is helping infrastructure owners and broadcasters better support the power and efficiency requirements of digital television (DTV) with a new line of PeakPower+ filters and combiners. The filters, which represent a breakthrough in coaxial filter technology, are specifically designed for the very high peak-to-average power ratio nature of DTV.

RFS is introducing the PeakPower+ line at the 2010 NAB Show being held April 12-15 in Las Vegas. At the show, RFS is featuring state-of-the-art products and technologies that help mobile broadcasters gain an advantage over their competitors by leveraging cutting-edge technology.

While the average RF power level of DTV is similar to that of traditional analog television transmitters, its peak power is considerably higher. This can translate into real-world problems for transmitting equipment. For example, a 5 kW average power transmitter running multiple DTV signals can produce peak power of more than 50 kW, causing TV transmitters to shutdown and leading to revenue loss for broadcasters.

The PeakPower+ filters allow DTV to be transmitted at higher power levels and consume less space than previous solutions. As a result, broadcasters can expect fewer system shutdowns and increased revenue through the safe addition and diversification of digital channels and services within their existing infrastructure.

According to RFS Senior Filter Design Engineer, Dieter Pelz, the PeakPower+ filters are the result of RFS' dedicated and sustained research efforts. "We wanted to address the real concerns of our customers," says Pelz. "Coaxial combiner filter technology used to be limited in its peak power handling capability. Beyond this limit, larger and costlier waveguide combiner technology had to be used."

According to Pelz, the PeakPower+ filters' internal design enables even the highest peak power levels to be easily sustained. RFS' in-house development of a key feature of the resonator assembly also greatly reduces the unwanted effects of high peak power inside the filter. "Peak power handling has been a major R&D priority for us, and now RFS' PeakPower+ filters offer very high DTV transmitter power levels and safe operation," says Pelz.

RFS' PeakPower+ filters also include improvements in overall average power handling and are field-tunable to any UHF channel.

RFS specialists on hand at the 2010 NAB Show include Mick Bennett (Global Product Manager, Broadcast and Defense Systems), Jay Martin (Sales Director, Broadcast and Defense Systems, North America) and Nick Wymant (CTO, Broadcast and Defense Systems).
To see the PeakPower+ filter and find out more about how RFS' state-of-the-art products and technologies empower broadcasters around the world to differentiate their service offerings, come and talk to our experts at the RFS booth (Las Vegas Convention Center, Central Hall, booth C2907).

Trademarks: Radio Frequency Systems® and RFS® are registered trademarks and PeakPower+TM is a trademark of Radio Frequency Systems. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

About RFS

Radio Frequency Systems (RFS) is a global designer and manufacturer of cable, antenna and tower systems, plus active and passive RF conditioning modules, providing total-package solutions for wireless infrastructure.

RFS serves OEMs, distributors, system integrators, operators and installers in the broadcast, wireless communications, land-mobile and microwave market sectors. As an ISO compliant organization with manufacturing and customer service facilities that span the globe, RFS offers cutting-edge engineering capabilities, superior field support and innovative product design. RFS is a leader in wireless infrastructure.

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