SBCA Signal Distribution 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In a satellite signal distribution system, what is the primary purpose of a splitter?
- Amplify the signal before distribution
- Divide one input signal into multiple output signals (Correct answer)
- Convert RF signals to IF signals
- Filter out unwanted frequencies
Correct answer: Divide one input signal into multiple output signals
A splitter divides one input signal into multiple output signals, allowing a single source to feed several receivers simultaneously.
Question 2: Which type of cable is most commonly used for satellite signal distribution in residential installations?
- Cat5e Ethernet cable
- RG-6 coaxial cable (Correct answer)
- RG-59 coaxial cable
- Fiber optic cable
Correct answer: RG-6 coaxial cable
RG-6 coaxial cable is the standard for residential satellite installations due to its lower signal loss at satellite frequencies compared to RG-59.
Question 3: What does a multiswitch accomplish in a satellite distribution system?
- It increases signal frequency
- It converts analog signals to digital
- It allows multiple receivers to access multiple satellite transponders (Correct answer)
- It eliminates signal reflections
Correct answer: It allows multiple receivers to access multiple satellite transponders
A multiswitch allows multiple satellite receivers to independently select from multiple satellite feeds and transponders.
Question 4: What is the typical impedance of coaxial cable used in satellite signal distribution?
- 50 ohms
- 75 ohms (Correct answer)
- 100 ohms
- 300 ohms
Correct answer: 75 ohms
Satellite and cable TV distribution systems use 75-ohm coaxial cable as the standard impedance.
Question 5: When cascading amplifiers in a distribution system, which problem becomes a primary concern?
- Increased signal strength
- Noise accumulation (Correct answer)
- Reduced bandwidth
- Lower power consumption
Correct answer: Noise accumulation
Each amplifier in a cascade adds its own noise figure, causing cumulative noise accumulation that degrades signal quality.
Question 6: What is the function of a diplexer in satellite signal distribution?
- Combine or separate signals of different frequency bands on a single cable (Correct answer)
- Boost signal levels at distribution points
- Convert digital signals to analog
- Route signals based on polarization
Correct answer: Combine or separate signals of different frequency bands on a single cable
A diplexer combines or separates signals of different frequency bands, allowing multiple signal types to share a single coaxial cable.
Question 7: What signal level is typically considered the minimum acceptable at a satellite receiver input?
- -30 dBm
- -50 dBm
- -70 dBm (Correct answer)
- -90 dBm
Correct answer: -70 dBm
A signal level of approximately -70 dBm is typically the minimum acceptable at a satellite receiver input for reliable operation.
SBCA Signal Distribution 2
In a satellite signal distribution system, what is the primary purpose of a splitter?