SOUKA is sharing an on-site view of a coaxial TV system in Saudi Arabia. The project uses HDMI signals from OSN and beIN set-top boxes as programme sources, with HDMI modulators converting those signals to DVB-T for distribution through a coaxial television network.
The installation brings programme receivers and modulation equipment together in a central rack. It illustrates a practical application of SOUKA's RF television solutions: connecting HDMI programme sources to a shared coaxial distribution system.
Inside the Saudi Arabia installation
The project image shows multiple set-top boxes arranged on rack shelves alongside two blue-fronted modulation units. Keeping the source devices and headend equipment together provides a central point for managing the selected programme feeds and their distribution settings.
The accompanying signal diagram summarises the installation's function: OSN and beIN set-top boxes → HDMI modulator → DVB-T signal → coaxial TV network. The receiver outputs provide the video and audio sources; the modulator prepares them for RF distribution.
This is an HDMI-to-RF application. DVB-T identifies the modulation format used on the coaxial network here; it does not mean that the HDMI sources originate from terrestrial antennas.
How HDMI signals reach the coaxial TV network
At the source end, each set-top box provides its selected programme through an HDMI output. The modulation stage processes the input and places the resulting service into a DVB-T RF output suitable for the planned distribution network.
The coaxial network then carries the RF signal towards television outlets. Receiving televisions or compatible receivers need to support the configured DVB-T service and the relevant video and audio formats. Actual compatibility should be checked against the equipment used at the destination.
For projects using several programme sources, the design starts with the required channel line-up and independent receiver feeds. One receiver's HDMI connection should not be assumed to carry every programme available under its subscription simultaneously. Input capacity, output capacity and the RF channel plan need to be matched to the proposed equipment.
Our single-channel and multi-channel HDMI modulator guide explains the source-count considerations behind this type of headend.
Making use of a coaxial distribution network
A coax-based approach can be useful where a property already has suitable television cabling and outlets. Central HDMI modulation makes it possible to feed selected programmes into that infrastructure without requiring each viewing point to connect directly to the source equipment rack.
Reusing a network still requires an assessment of its condition and signal path. Cable runs, splitters, amplifiers, outlet losses and television compatibility all affect the final design. The project photograph demonstrates the equipment arrangement, while any performance assessment requires measurements at the actual outlets.
For engineers planning similar installations, SOUKA's HDMI-to-RF channel planning guide covers the relationship between source feeds, RF assignments and receiving televisions. For hospitality applications, the hotel cable TV solution provides a separate overview of this distribution approach.
Planning a similar television project
For a comparable project in Saudi Arabia or another market, start with the programme sources, the existing distribution network and the receiving equipment. These details help identify the appropriate headend configuration before selecting a modulator.
- Programme sources: list the required independent feeds, receiver models, HDMI output settings and audio formats.
- Distribution network: provide the coaxial topology, approximate cable runs, splitters, amplifiers and outlet requirements.
- Receiving equipment: identify television or receiver models and confirm the required tuning and decoding support.
- Commissioning: agree the channel plan, outlet checks, configuration records and maintenance access.
Programme distribution should use authorised sources and the permissions appropriate to the intended viewing environment. OSN and beIN are identified here as source-device brands shown in the project image; their appearance does not imply endorsement of SOUKA.
Explore the SOUKA digital modulator range for configuration discussions. The correct model depends on the source count, required output standard and receiving equipment, rather than the rack appearance alone.
This Saudi Arabia project shows how HDMI programme sources can be connected to a coaxial television network through DVB-T modulation. The central rack brings the receivers and modulators together as the source and distribution headend.
If you are planning a similar installation, send SOUKA your source list and network requirements for a project-specific configuration discussion.