Recommendations for new buildings

Single dwellings

A typical new home with more than one TV outlet would incorporate some or all of the following facilities:

· A digital satellite receiver in the main lounge with the ability to watch the selected satellite programme in any other room

· The ability to change the satellite programme from some of the other rooms

· A telephone point next to the satellite receiver in the lounge (for interactive services)

· The ability to use an FM radio receiver, DAB receiver, analogue TV, IDTV or ONdigital receiver in any living room, bedroom or the kitchen.

All these facilities can be provided using a “loft box” in conjunction with a separate high quality double screened coaxial cable to each room. The loft box would need a power socket and a good earth.

Multi dwelling units

The specification for a typical new building should include the provision of at least the following services in each dwelling:

· Analogue and digital terrestrial TV reception

· Digital satellite TV reception

It is essential to install a star-wired cable network with a separate coaxial cable between dwelling and the nearest multiswitch. The multiswitches must be daisy chained together and to the Head End (launch amplifier) equipment with a 5 cable backbone. The aerials and satellite dish must be bonded to the building’s lightning protection system and the Head End equipment will need a power socket and a good electrical earth.