SES Broadband User Equipment and Installation
Connecting to the SES Broadband service requires a specialized satellite terminal known as the Sat3Play. Developed through a collaboration between Newtec and the European Space Agency (ESA), this system is designed to provide high-speed connectivity via satellite, bridging the gap between remote locations and the global internet.
Key Facts
- Hardware: Uses the Sat3Play terminal consisting of an external dish and an indoor IP modem.
- Installation: Designed for Do-It-Yourself (DiY) setup by competent end users.
- Dish Specs: 80 cm (31 in) diameter solid steel reflector with an offset design.
- Connectivity: Connects to PCs or Local Area Networks (LAN) via standard Ethernet.
- Automation: The IP modem automatically locates the initial receive carrier frequency at 10.891 GHz.
The Sat3Play Terminal Components
The system is divided into two primary sections: the outdoor antenna assembly and the indoor networking hardware. These components work in tandem to facilitate two-way interactive communication.
The Satellite Dish and iLNB
The external component is an offset satellite dish featuring a solid steel reflector with a diameter of 80 cm (31 in). It is equipped with an altazimuth mount, which allows for adjustment of both altitude (vertical angle) and azimuth (horizontal angle) to align with the satellite.
Attached to the dish is the iLNB (interactive Low-Noise Block downconverter). Unlike standard TV LNBs, the iLNB combines the feedhorn and the electronics required for both reception and transmission into a single unit. It utilizes two F connectors to link the outdoor equipment to the indoor modem. While the reception section is similar to a universal LNB used in European domestic satellite TV, it supports only one signal polarization, which is selected by rotating the iLNB within its mount during installation.
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The IP Modem
The indoor component is the IP modem, a compact, mains-powered unit housed in a plastic case. It connects to the iLNB via F connectors and interfaces with the user's computer or LAN using a standard 8P8C (RJ-45) Ethernet connector. A significant advantage of this hardware is that it requires no specialized software on the user's PC.
The IP modem functions as a DHCP server (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol), automatically assigning IP addresses to connected devices. To help the user monitor the connection, the modem features LED indicators for:
- Power status
- Satellite link alarm
- LAN connection and data activity
- Satellite signal reception and transmission
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Installation and Setup
The Sat3Play system is designed for Do-It-Yourself (DiY) installation. With the provided detailed instructions, a competent user can complete the assembly using basic tools and a simple signal strength meter without needing professional assistance.
Once the dish is correctly aligned with the satellite, the IP modem automatically seeks the initial receive carrier frequency of 10.891 GHz to establish the connection.
Expanding Functionality: Satellite TV Integration
Users can upgrade their SES Broadband terminal to support standard satellite TV reception by installing a "Quad LNB and Multifeed Clamp." This upgrade replaces the standard iLNB clamp with one that can hold an additional LNB for either Astra 19.2°E or Astra 28.2°E.
This multifeed setup is fixed at the correct horizontal separation and can be adjusted vertically based on the user's latitude. To prevent technical conflicts, a special four-output LNB is used, which includes filtering to suppress interference caused by the iLNB's transmitter.
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Technical Specifications Summary
| Component | Specification/Feature |
|---|---|
| Dish Diameter | 80 cm (31 in) |
| Reflector Material | Solid Steel (Offset Design) |
| Mount Type | Altazimuth |
| Initial Carrier Frequency | 10.891 GHz |
| Network Interface | 8P8C (RJ-45) Ethernet |
| Modem Role | DHCP Server |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need professional help to install the Sat3Play terminal?
No, the system is designed for Do-It-Yourself (DiY) installation. Any competent end user can install it using the provided instructions, basic tools, and a signal strength meter.
Is special software required on my computer to use the service?
No, the IP modem connects directly to your PC or LAN via Ethernet and does not require any specific software installation on the user's computer.
How does the IP modem establish a connection?
Once the dish is properly aligned, the IP modem automatically searches for and locks onto the initial receive carrier frequency of 10.891 GHz.
Can I watch satellite TV using the same dish?
Yes, by installing a Quad LNB and Multifeed Clamp upgrade, you can add an additional LNB for Astra 19.2°E or Astra 28.2°E to receive TV signals.
How is the signal polarization handled on the iLNB?
The iLNB receives one signal polarization. The correct polarization is selected during installation by rotating the iLNB within its mount on the dish.