Rohde & Schwarz Introduces TLV9 Low-Power VHF Transmitters

Rohde & Schwarz, a global provider of TV and radio terrestrial transmission equipment, will further extend its portfolio of low-power VHF transmitters with the introduction of the R&S TLV9. The new model is designed to operate in the VHF band III with an output power of 50 W to 300 W from a single 2U box. It has been developed for applications spanning DAB+ and digital TV standards in VHF band III.

The TLV9 targets a number of markets including DAB and DAB+ networks, mainly in Europe, as well as DTV network operators using VHF band lll in Italy, Finland, USA and Australia.

R&S says the TLV9 VHF transmitter achieves up to 30% efficiency, setting the benchmark for the low-power transmitter class. With the TLV9, Rohde & Schwarz says it has “focused on simple operation. The new model provides a clear picture of the current operational status through an intuitive operator interface. Engineers can easily define boundaries for operational parameters, such as target shoulder distance or the warning level for a minimal MER. Based on this input, the transmitter works according to these parameters and provides constant feedback via SNMP without the need for external monitoring equipment.

“This superior automation and operation reduce infrastructure complexity and decrease stress on the system engineer, since virtually all system analytics are performed automatically by the transmitter system. The TLV9 is designed to permanently operate at high temperatures — up to 45°C at full power.”

Designed to be future-proofed, the TLV9, R&S says, “offers energy cost savings over the transmitters’ entire life thanks to the Rohde & Schwarz effi­ciency optimization feature. Thanks to its field-proven operating platform with premium RF components and an advanced thermal design, the TLV9‘s architecture is designed for a long product life. In essence, the transmitter is an excel­lent solution to bridge the last mile in digital TV and DAB+ networks.”

The TLV9 comes with built-in performance analysis functions, including efficiency measurement and signal quality analysis. These features include a self-monitoring function that provides instant feedback on operational parameters and clear diagnostic information in the event of a fault. This ensures consistent high quality of service and minimizes operating costs.

R&S says that while the TLV9 may be small, “it reflects all the sophistication of larger R&S transmitters: it is the only high-quality transmitter in its power class. Using premium components and based on an extremely robust transmitter design, it offers superior availability and long service intervals. Infrastructure requirements are minimal.”

“Thousands of R&S TLx9 transmitters are in operation around the world. They prove their exceptional reliability every day, demonstrating that Rohde & Schwarz low-power transmitters perfectly satisfy network operators’ needs for minimal operating costs and maximum availability,” said Manfred Reitmeier, R&S vice president transmitters and amplifier systems. “This new transmitter clearly differentiates Rohde & Schwarz in a competitive market. Already we have received significant interest from customers.”