Converting the RF spectrum to fiber optic signals and back to RF with off the shelf parts
Вставка
- Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
- I saw these devices on Ali Express advertised as being able to transmit CATV signals over fiber optics. I wondered if they would work with RF in general. Turns out, they do. This allows you to have a radio fully isolated from the antenna.
Transmitter: New FTTH 1010AGC-1550 Optical Fiber Transmitter 1550nm CATV Optical Transmitter With SC/APC Connector RF Input With LCD Display ($79.57)
Receiver: Mini CATV FTTH Receiver Fiber Optical WDM Node RF Converter Triplexer Minimode Indoor AGC 1310nm/1490nm/1550nm Without power ($11.58)
Cable: Free Shipping SC/APC-SC/APC SX FTTH Fiber Optic Drop Cable Patch Cord SM 3.0MM Fiber Optic Jumper Cable ($2.17)
I'm not an RF guy nor a sound guy, but I started looking into these for OTA TV. I found the Softel transmitter and receivers. They exceeded my expectations. I have about 5' of coaxal going to the transmitter in the attic. Two fiber splitters to 3 receivers one to a TV, the other two feed a Tablo, and an HD Homerun quad tuner. I can see about a 2-3% signal and quality loss per splitter. I'm getting great signals with no amps involved. I just sat through one of those Nebraska storms, I understand the concern.
Thanks for taking the time to post this.
Awesome to hear! These things are pretty slick. I don't pretend to understand how it can convert a spectrum of rf into light but it does it!
@@kc0aky I was looking for one in the 27 MHz range thinking what a difference this would have made in the 70's with CBs when I found your video. The only other videos I have seen are with Thor units. $2,000 a pair are a little rich for my use.
What frequency ranges do they work up to, is somehow not immediately obvious from the product page.
@@samuelgyger I have had success up to 900 mhz I don't have a signal generator that goes above that. I know there are some that are useful for satellite TV which obviously would cover higher frequency. I'm not sure if there is physically any difference though. If you have any idea how I can test the top end without a multi gig signal generator let me know and I'll set up the test
hi Shawn, was just looking at these fiber units on aliexpress for UHF, i work in sound and am always looking to cut long coax runs. how has the system faired as you’ve had it now for 3months+? cheers!
I have no complaints, but truthfully it's been powered down most the time. The use case for me is an EMP resistant scanner antenna for electrical storms. And we're just getting into storm season here in Iowa! Thanks for reaching out
Awesome demonstration!