Published: May 28, 2025 by Rungreung Huanraluek
MATV, SMATV, CATV, and Hotel IPTV Systems — Part 2
Is it difficult to upgrade a centralized TV system from an old analog system to a new digital system? What steps are involved?
The "digital TV system" has the advantage of being able to receive signals at very low strength—around 40dB—while still providing a clear picture. In contrast, the old "analog TV system" requires a signal strength of 65dB or higher to produce a clear image. This difference means that upgrading a centralized TV system from the old analog system to the new digital system involves low costs, is easy to implement, reduces maintenance hassles, and significantly lowers electricity consumption.
Simply install a digital TV antenna (model with LTE/4G/5G interference filters) and replace some equipment in the MATV headend cabinet, then connect it to the existing network. You can also readjust the signal levels on the amplifiers to optimize performance. Testing the signal at the endpoints usually shows 100% functionality, except in old analog TV networks that had prior issues, which can be fixed as needed. You can also learn about terrestrial TV signal transmission and reception to better understand the process.
Designing a centralized TV system—including digital TV, MATV, SMATV, CATV, and Hotel IPTV—to achieve high-quality signals requires equal attention to both the “signal reception and conversion system” from various sources and the “signal distribution system.” This article has already covered signal reception via digital TV antennas. Remaining topics include signal reception via satellite dishes, internet streaming, various types of set-top boxes, and in-house channel production for signal distribution within hotels, resorts, hospitals, as well as condos, apartments, dormitories, and government buildings—ensuring high quality, fewer problems, and long-lasting performance.
Summary of the 3 steps to convert a centralized TV system from analog to digital:
(1) Signal reception, conversion, and control (MATV Headend):
Replace with a digital TV antenna that can receive over 20 Thai TV channels. For satellite systems, replace the satellite receiver with a transcoder modulator.
(2) Signal distribution network (Main Distribution Network):
No changes are needed; just check that the signal levels at the amplifiers remain normal.
(3) TV viewing endpoints (TV Outlets):
Digital TVs can receive the signal directly. For older TVs, use a digital TV set-top box to receive the digital signal.
