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| EMagazine Volume 4 Issue 5 October 1999 |
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The
End is Near for Using RG-6 Cable in Video Distribution Systems There are numerous advantages of the CATS™ system. First, it delivers DVD quality video to any location over inexpensive twisted pair wire. It allows for multi-point distribution and remote control of video signals at any location within 1000 ft. on a category 5 wire (note: audio to 5000 ft). Multiple receivers can be connected in parallel via home run wiring or daisy chained to the stated system limits. |
Introduction
There were no modern video signal distribution and control options available to
the custom installer for high quality DVD video signals, until now. Thirty year
old channel modulation technology is by far the most prevalent video
distribution method employed, despite its poor picture quality, limited cable
run capability, expensive installation, and the considerable "fine
tuning" needed by a qualified technician. The channel modulation strategy
provides acceptable picture quality from the older analog sources like cable and
VHS, due to the low resolution of the sources themselves. (Of course, a separate
system is also needed to control the channel modulated system.) High resolution
signals from DVD, DSS, and laser disc, clearly outstrip the performance
capability of the best channel modulation installations. This article centers on
the only technology that supplies DVD quality video/audio using a single CAT5
cable for all distribution and control functions. This system is called CATS™
and is available from Pragmatic Communications Systems of Sunnyvale, California.
The CATS™ system provides DVD quality video with cable runs of 1000 feet
without signal boosters or amplifiers. CATS™ delivers CD quality audio with
CAT5 runs up to 5000 feet without extra equipment. CATS™ is the perfect choice
to distribute and control multiple sources into multiple zones in residential
and commercial applications.
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CATS™ - Complete Audio/Video
Transmission/Control System
Pragmatic Communications Systems, Inc., an innovator in both wireless and wired
communications technology, addresses the very problems that plague the heavy
gauge cable based delivery systems currently employed. The CATS™ system
distributes and controls DVD quality video and audiophile quality audio on
inexpensive unshielded category 3 or category 5 wires using a proprietary and
patent pending Bandwidth Domain Signal Processing (BDSP™) technology. BDSP™
technology enables transmission of the highest quality video signals to 1000 ft.
on a standard category 5 or unshielded twisted pair wires without any loss in
the performance, dynamic range or quality. The state-of-the-art BDSP™
technology completely eliminates any ground loops, noise pick-up or hum. It
provides for superb sound and very high resolution of fine music detail after
5000 ft of a CAT5 cable run!. The wide dynamic range of the BDSP™ technology
delivers excellent mid-range purity and bass full of warmth. Despite using this
inexpensive medium to transmit and receive signals, it delivers a performance
that far surpasses the most expensive audiophile and videophile cables.
There are numerous advantages of the CATS™ system. First, it delivers DVD quality video to any location over inexpensive twisted pair wire. It allows for multi-point distribution and remote control of video signals at any location within 1000 ft. on a category 5 wire (note: audio to 5000 ft). Multiple receivers can be connected in parallel via home run wiring or daisy chained to the stated system limits. The range can be extended to many miles or many receivers by configuring a simple repeater system.
The applications of CATS™ are almost limitless. It can be used in residential applications to distribute and control home theater, remote music sources, and security applications. The CATS™ system could bring new life to commercial theaters, amphitheaters, concert halls, hotels, conference centers, and broadcast studios. Due to its portability and modular construction, it is easily deployed at trade shows and other venues.
CATS™ is composed of three simple modules, a receiver, a transmitter, and an 8by8 router. Simply decide how many active sources are required and the number of zones to distribute signal into, connect them into the router and the system is functional. Total zone control is accomplished using any form of learning IR remote, hand-held or wall mounted. Each module is discussed in more detail below.
CATS™ Video and Stereo Audio Transmitter - 2TAVIC
Description: The 2TAVIC transmits stereo audio and any video signal from a variety of high quality sources such as DVD, Laser Disc, DSS, or an A/V receiver output. It encodes and processes line level audio and video signals using the proprietary and patent pending BDSP™ technology and transmits it on a category 5, category 3, or even standard telephone grade wire. On the same category 5 cable, it also receives IR universal remote control signals from the distant CATS™ receivers and rebroadcasts the control signals via an IR LED driver.
Features:
- DVD quality video
- Flat stereo audio frequency response
- Operates on simple telephone grade wire
- Stereo audio and video signal distribution
- Stereo line level inputs
- Low power consumption
- Maximum number of receivers driven > 16
- IR universal remote control transponder
- 1000 ft. distance video
- 5000 ft. distance audio
- Full 5 year warranty
CATS™ Video and Stereo Audio Receiver - 2RAVIC
Description: The 2RAVIC is a stereo audio and video receiver for the CATS™ signal distribution system. It decodes and processes the signals received from the CATS™ transmitter over the category 5, category 3, (or telephone grade wire) using BDSP™ technology and converts to line level stereo audio and video signals. It also receives universal IR remote control signals and sends them on the wires to the distant CATS™-2T transmitter, which then rebroadcasts it via the IR LED driver on the unit.
Features:
- DVD quality video
- Flat audio and video frequency response
- Stereo audio and video line level outputs
- Low power consumption
- Auxiliary IR detector input
- Interfaces to any power amplifier
- Signal loop-through connector for daisy chaining multiple receivers
- Universal IR remote control transponder
- Full 5 year warranty
CATS™
Multi-Zone, Multi-source Audio/Video switcher - -8BY8TAV
Description: The 8BY8TAV is a switcher/router for multi-zone, multi-source distribution and control of CATS™ signals in up to 8 different zones simultaneously. Any available source input can be routed to any and all zones. The IR commands delivered from the remote controls in any zone are interpreted by the switcher/router micro-controller. System wide programming and control is via serial (RS-232) input/output connection, as found in high end A/V system controllers or common personal computers.
More information can be obtained on these and other fine products from Pragmatic Communications Systems, Inc. by calling (408) 542-0330, faxing a request at (408) 542-0339 or visiting our web site at http://www.wireless-experts.com . Send e-mail requests to sales@wireless-experts.com .
