EN 50083-2:2012/A1:2015

Overview

The EN 50083-2:2012/A1:2015 standard, issued by CLC, focuses on electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) for equipment used in cable networks transmitting television signals, sound signals, and interactive services. As an amendment to EN 50083-2:2012, this updated standard ensures equipment adherence to the latest EMC requirements, helping to reduce interference and improve signal quality across cable distribution systems.

This standard targets manufacturers, installers, and operators of cable network equipment, defining essential test methods and immunity criteria to guarantee optimal performance in increasingly complex electromagnetic environments. It supports harmonized use in Europe, facilitating compliance with regulatory frameworks and ensuring interoperability.

Key Topics

• Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC): The standard provides detailed guidelines on the immunity of active equipment to both in-band and out-of-band disturbances, helping to maintain signal integrity and avoid disruptions caused by unwanted electromagnetic signals.
• Measurement Methods: It specifies practical methods for assessing equipment immunity to interference, focusing on unwanted signals that might affect performance within or outside the operating frequency range.
• Frequency Band Considerations: Particular attention is given to interference in the 790 MHz to 862 MHz frequency range, commonly impacted by wireless services such as LTE, which may cause in-band interference when broadcast antennas receive unwanted wireless signals.
• Equipment Scope: The amendment clarifies that internal immunity measurements are not required for channel-selective equipment processing exclusively DVB (Digital Video Broadcasting) signals, such as DVB tuners or headend equipment.
• Filter Recommendations: Where wireless interference is problematic, the standard suggests the use of low-pass filters at the broadband amplifier input to mitigate interference due to high-level wireless signals, avoiding overload and signal distortion.

Applications

• Cable Television Networks: Ensures reliable transmission of TV signals by providing immunity to electromagnetic disturbances typically found in cable distribution systems.
• Sound and Radio Broadcasts: Enhances the quality and consistency of audio services delivered through cable networks by minimizing interference.
• Interactive Services: Supports the increasing use of interactive digital services over cable by defining EMC requirements that prevent disruptions.
• Manufacturing and Testing: Assists equipment manufacturers in designing and verifying devices that meet EMC standards to pass regulatory approvals and function effectively in diverse environments.
• System Installation and Maintenance: Guides network operators and installers in selecting and maintaining compatible equipment, ensuring system longevity and service quality.

Related Standards

• EN 50083 series: The broader set of standards covering cable networks for television, sound, and interactive services, including aspects such as system design and safety.
• EMC General Standards (IEC/EN 61000 series): General electromagnetic compatibility standards offering foundational test methods and immunity requirements.
• DVB Standards: Specific standards governing digital television broadcasting components that relate to signal processing and channel selection.
• Wireless Communication Regulations: Compliance with frequency band regulations, particularly for coexistence with wireless broadband services like LTE.

Ensuring compliance with EN 50083-2:2012/A1:2015 helps cable network equipment maintain robust electromagnetic compatibility, prevent service interruptions, and deliver high-quality television, sound, and interactive services across diverse environments.