Amplifier Suggestions for Broadband Video on Cat 5 Cable

Because Lynx equipment does not utilize external power, a broadband video amplifier is usually installed ahead of the Lynx hub to compensate for cable and insertion losses. In most cases one amplifier will support hubs serving up to 24 TVs from a given IDF closet. See Amplifier Selection Guide for specific recommendations on selecting the proper amplifier.

To select the proper amplifier it is important to determine the cable and insertion losses for each run of Cat 5 cable. These losses vary depending on the length of each run and the frequency (channel number) being delivered. They can be quantified by referring to the Lynx System Loss Chart on this website, or using the Lynx Design Model (available upon request by contacting info@lynxbroadband.com).

The design and installation of the Lynx network should always group the cable runs as a function of distance. For example, if the wiring closet has three 8 port Lynx hubs, all of the short runs should be routed to the "short" hub, the medium runs to the "medium" hub, and the long runs to the "long" hub. The signal strength to each hub can then be adusted by adding attenuators to the short and medium runs, if needed.

It is usually a good idea to maximize the slope adjustment on the amplifier to compensate for the higher losses associated with higher channel numbers.

A more detailed description of amplifier selection and system design considerations is available by reviewing the Amplifier Selection Guide.

System design services are also available. Contact Lynx Broadband for further information.