Here are the detailed explanation when Installing aerials in communal properties. For more you can read here!

1. Installing aerials in communal
properties

2. • For regular domestic properties, installing an aerial to enable TV
and radio services is usually quite a straightforward process.
However, for communal properties such as hotels, hospitals and
residential homes, a different approach is required.
• In the vast majority of communal properties, an Integrated
Reception System (IRS) is used. An IRS system allows for
different individuals within a communal property to get the
services that they desire without the need to install separate
aerials for each person, which would be completely impractical.

3. How IRS systems work
• Although IRS systems vary from one property to another, they
generally combine a TV, FM and DAB aerial as well as a satellite
dish in some circumstances. Communal aerial installation is
achieved using an IRS system by erecting these aerials on the roof
of the property and then running the cables down to a distribution
centre inside the property known as the ‘headend’.
• Since it contains cables, the headend is always placed inside the
property when possible, however it can also be placed outdoors in a
weather-proof cabinet. The purpose of the headend isn’t just to
distribute the signals so they can be sent to the different rooms in
the property but also to amplify the feeds from the antennae so
they’re strong enough to provide service to the entire building.

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• The feeds are connected to multiswitches before being sent to the
individual dwellings. This is so all the signals can be sent through a
single cable. When they reach the connection point of the residents’
digital equipment, the signals are then decombined so that the
appropriate cable can be connected.
• The system detailed above provides access to digital TV and radio
as well as Sky TV. However, there is an increasing demand for
satellite services other than Sky in communal properties. This can
be achieved by installing additional aerials, however installing
additional aerials means running extra wires to the headend as well
as using more amplification equipment.
• IRS systems are referred to by the number of wires used to set
them up. For example, an IRS system that uses two satellites is
known as a 9 wire system, whereas an IRS system that makes use
of 3 satellites is known as a 13 wire system, and so on.

5. Fibre optic IRS
• More and more, fibre optic cable is being used in IRS systems.
Whilst fibre optic has been used in telecommunications since the
80s, it’s a fairly recent development within the TV industry.
• Using fibre optic cable has some key advantages over using copper
coax. Firstly and most importantly – fibre optic cable can transport
much more data and over further distances.
• Fibre optic cable is also much lighter and thinner, making it ideal for
use in complex IRS systems where multiple cables have to be run to
and from the distribution unit.

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• Another key advantage of using fibre optic cable is that because
glass does not conduct electricity, it makes it safer and also doesn’t
carry any earthing requirements, making it more practical to work
with.
• Although fibre optic cable carries several advantages, it’s installed in
the same way as copper coax, except it can be run at much greater
distances meaning it’s excellent for use in very large communal
properties.

7. Aerial Services Ltd.
Unit 5, 92-98 Vauxhall Walk, SE11 5EL
Tel: 020 7582 8888
Fax: 020 7582 52222
For more log on to
www.aerialservices.co.uk