ChannelPlus DA-506BID Video Amplifier Hub — Manual

Installation and reference manual for the ChannelPlus DA-506BID — a video amplifier hub that distributes CATV or antenna signals to up to 6 TVs, with support for pay-per-view, interactive cable, and cable modem service via a built-in reverse channel.

Overview

The DA-506BID has four short-run outputs (up to 75 feet) and two long-run outputs (up to 150 feet) for maximum installation flexibility. It includes a broadband 54–806MHz forward amplifier and a 5–42MHz reverse channel, compatible with pay-per-view, interactive cable, and cable modems. Extra mounting ears are included so the unit can be mounted in any OpenHouse™ structured wiring grid system.

Specifications

Typical @ 25°C ± 5°C

Installation

Connect the CATV/antenna feed to the input, and distribute signal to up to 6 TVs via the four short-run and two long-run outputs — choosing outputs based on the cable run length to each TV location. The unit's mounting ears allow direct installation into an OpenHouse™ structured wiring panel.

Troubleshooting: Herringbone Patterns

A wavy pattern on the TV picture ("herringbone") is caused by one or more spurious signals ("spurs") landing in the 6MHz band reserved for that channel — for example, a modulator on channel 16 can interject a spur into channel 15. The prime cause of spurs is an over-driven distribution amplifier (also known as intermodulation, or IM, distortion).

Diagnostic test: Insert an inexpensive variable attenuator before the amp (splitters between the amp and TV are fine). Increasing the attenuation decreases the signal reaching the amp — if the herringbone pattern disappears, the amplifier is being over-driven.

Causes of an over-driven amp:

1. Too much gain in the system — use the variable attenuator to find a clean signal level where the amp isn't over-driven.
2. Strong local FM signal — a nearby FM transmitting tower may require an FM trap before the amplifier.
3. Strong local TV signal — a nearby TV transmitting tower may require a tuned filter (station management can sometimes supply filters for their neighbors).

Variable attenuators and FM traps are available at many hardware and electronics stores. For more troubleshooting tips and installation advice, visit www.channelplus.com.

Warranty

Multiplex Technology, Inc. (MTI) warrants this product free from defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the date of purchase; MTI will repair or, at its option, replace the defective product. Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) number from MTI before returning the product prepaid to Multiplex Technology, Inc., 3001 Enterprise Street, Brea, CA 92821, Attn: Customer Service — put the RMA number on the outside of the carton. Excludes incidental/consequential damages; some states do not allow such limitations.