1. Introduction
The Satlink ST-8631 is a versatile multifunctional digital TV program converter designed for professional and home use. This device is capable of collecting encrypted or free-to-air satellite, cable, and terrestrial channels. It converts these signals into HTTP IP output, UDP multicast output, or directly into DVB-T/ISDB-T output. The resulting output signal can be viewed on IP/DVB-T/ISDB-T Set-Top Boxes (STBs) or directly on ISDB-T/DVB-T compatible televisions. Its primary applications include apartment buildings, surveillance control centers, hotels, and retail shops.
2. Key Features
The ST-8631 offers a robust set of features for comprehensive digital TV signal management:
- 2 x DVB-S/S2/DVB-T/T2/DVB-C/ISDB-T Input ports
- 2 x DVB-T/ISDB-T Output ports
- 1 x 100Mbps Ethernet port
- 1 x 1Gbps Ethernet port
- 1 x USB 3.0 interface
- 1 x USB 2.0 interface
- Supports IPTV input (HTTP/UDP/Multicast)
- Supports IPTV output (HTTP/UDP/Multicast)
- Supports Media file (TS file) playback from USB disk
- Supports BISS/PowerVU/Smart Card functionalities
- Equipped with a 2.4-inch LCD display for easy navigation and monitoring
Figure 2.1: Key Features and Connection Diagram of the ST-8631. This diagram illustrates the front panel controls (Key Button, Indicate) and the rear panel connections, including power, USB, Ethernet, DVB inputs, and RF/HDMI outputs, along with example device connections.
3. Setup Guide
3.1. Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the ST-8631 from its packaging. Inspect the device for any signs of damage. Ensure all accessories are present.
3.2. Physical Connections
Refer to the connection diagram (Figure 2.1) and the rear panel view (Figure 3.1) for proper wiring.
- Power Connection: Connect the provided 12V power adapter to the '12V Adapter' port on the rear panel and plug it into a suitable power outlet.
- Signal Inputs:
- DVB-S/S2: Connect your satellite dish LNB cables to the 'DVB-S/S2' input ports.
- DVB-T/T2/C: Connect your terrestrial antenna or cable TV signal to the 'DVB-T/T2/C' input ports.
- IP IN: For IPTV input, connect an Ethernet cable from your network to the 'IP IN' port.
- Signal Outputs:
- RF OUT: Connect to a DVB-T/ISDB-T compatible television or STB using an RF cable.
- HDMI OUT: Connect to a monitor or TV for direct video output.
- IP TS OUT: For IPTV output, connect an Ethernet cable from this port to your network.
- USB Devices: Connect USB storage devices (for media playback or firmware updates) to the 'USB 2.0' or 'USB 3.0' ports.
Figure 3.1: Rear panel view of the ST-8631, showing all input and output ports.
3.3. Initial Power On
After all connections are made, press the 'POWER' button on the front panel. The device's LCD display will illuminate, and the power indicator LED will light up. The device will boot up, and you will see the main menu or the last active screen.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Front Panel Controls
The front panel features a 2.4-inch LCD display and several control buttons:
- POWER: Turns the device on/off.
- MENU: Accesses the main menu or returns to the previous screen.
- OK: Confirms selections or enters sub-menus.
- Arrow Keys (Up, Down, Left, Right): Navigates through menu options and adjusts settings.
- F1, F2, F3: Function keys, whose actions may vary depending on the current screen or mode.
4.2. Tuner Settings (DVB-S/S2 Example)
To configure a DVB-S/S2 tuner:
- Press 'MENU' to access the main menu.
- Navigate to 'Tuner Settings' or a similar option using the arrow keys and press 'OK'.
- Select the desired tuner (e.g., 'Tuner 1 Setting / DVB-S-S2').
- Adjust parameters such as 'Satellite', 'Transponder', 'LNB Power', and 'LNB Frequency' using the arrow keys and 'OK' button.
- Monitor the 'Strength' and 'Quality' bars to ensure optimal signal reception.
- Press 'MENU' to exit or save settings as prompted.
Figure 4.1: Front panel display showing DVB-S/S2 tuner settings, including signal strength and quality indicators.
4.3. Input Selection
The device supports multiple input sources. To switch between them:
- From the main screen, you may see indicators for 'INPUT 1', 'INPUT 2', etc.
- Use the arrow keys to highlight the desired input or navigate through the menu to an 'Input Selection' option.
- Press 'OK' to select the input.
Figure 4.2: Front panel display showing input selection options (Input 1, Input 2, Input 3, Input 4).
4.4. IPTV and Media Playback
The ST-8631 supports both IPTV streaming and media file playback:
- IPTV: Configure IPTV input/output settings via the menu system. This typically involves setting up network parameters and stream URLs.
- Media Playback: Insert a USB disk containing TS media files into one of the USB ports. Navigate to the 'Media Player' or 'USB' section in the menu to browse and play files.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Cleaning
To maintain optimal performance and appearance, regularly clean the device. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the finish or internal components.
5.2. Firmware Updates
Periodically check the manufacturer's website for firmware updates. Updates can improve performance, add new features, or fix bugs. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware update package carefully, typically involving loading the update onto a USB drive and using the device's menu to initiate the update process.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ST-8631, try the following basic troubleshooting steps:
- No Power: Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the device and a working power outlet. Check the power indicator LED.
- No Signal: Verify all input cables (satellite, terrestrial/cable, Ethernet) are securely connected. Check the signal strength and quality indicators in the tuner settings menu. Ensure your antenna/dish is correctly aligned.
- No Picture/Sound on TV: Check HDMI or RF cable connections to your TV. Ensure the TV is set to the correct input source.
- Menu Unresponsive: Try restarting the device by powering it off and on.
- IPTV Issues: Verify network connectivity and ensure the IPTV stream URLs are correct and active.
For persistent issues, consult the detailed specifications or contact customer support.
7. Technical Specifications
The following table details the technical specifications of the Satlink ST-8631:
Figure 7.1: Functional Block Diagram and Detailed Technical Specifications of the ST-8631.
| Category | Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|---|
| Input | DVB Tuner Inputs | 2 DVB-S/S2 FTA Tuner Input Ports, 2 DVB-C/T/T2 FTA Tuner Input Ports |
| IP TS Input | 2 IP TS Input (HTTP UDP and RTP) RJ45, 100M/1000M | |
| Unicast/Multicast | Yes | |
| High-concerned chemical | None | |
| DVB-S | Input Frequency | 950~2150MHz |
| Signal Strength | -65~-25dBm | |
| Signal Quality | 25~100% | |
| Input Frequency | 950~2150MHz | |
| Symbol rate | QPSK: 1~45Mbauds | |
| Code rate | QPSK: 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/6, 6/7, 7/8, 8/9, 9/10 | |
| DVB-S2 | Constellation | QPSK, 8PSK |
| Input Frequency | 950~2150MHz | |
| Code rate | QPSK: 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 4/5, 5/6, 6/7, 7/8, 8/9, 9/10 | |
| DVB-T/T2 | Input Frequency | UHF 470MHz~862MHz |
| Bandwidth | 6M, 7M, 8M | |
| QAM Modes | 16, 64, 256QAM with or without rotation | |
| FFT Sizes | 1K, 2K, 4K, 8K, 16K, 32K | |
| Guard Interval | 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32 | |
| Code Rates | 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 | |
| DVB-C | Input Frequency Range | 150MHz~862MHz |
| QAM Modes | 16, 32, 64, 128, 256QAM | |
| Symbol Rate | 1~7.2Mbaud | |
| Code Rates | 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 | |
| ISDB-T | Input Frequency | UHF 470MHz~862MHz |
| Bandwidth | 6M, 7M, 8M | |
| QAM Modes | 16, 64, 256QAM | |
| Guard Interval | 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32 | |
| Code Rates | 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 | |
| Transmission Mode | 1K, 2K, 4K, 8K | |
| BISS Descrambling | Modes | Mode 1, Mode 2, Mode 3 (Max 100Mbps descramble 10 channels per input) |
| Channels per input | 256 per input channel | |
| Multiplexing Function | PID filtering | Yes |
| PCR adjusting | Accurate | |
| PSI/SI table | Generate automatically | |
| DVB-T Modulation | FFT Mode | 2K, 8K |
| Guard Interval | 1/4, 1/8, 1/16, 1/32 | |
| Constellation | QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM | |
| Code Rate | 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 | |
| MER | >32 dB | |
| RF Frequency | 50~960MHz, 1KHz step | |
| RF output level | -40 to 0 dBm in 1 dB steps | |
| Bandwidth | 6M, 7M, 8M | |
| ISDB-T Modulation | Constellation | QPSK, 16QAM, 64QAM |
| Code Rate | 1/2, 2/3, 3/4, 5/6, 7/8 | |
| Transmission Mode | 2K, 8K | |
| MER | >32 dB | |
| RF frequency | 54~862MHz, 1KHz step | |
| RF output level | -40 to 0 dBm in 1 dB steps | |
| Bandwidth | 6M, 7M, 8M | |
| With USB Wifi | No | |
| System | Remote Management | Web GUI |
| Language | English and Chinese | |
| Firmware Upgrading | Web and USB | |
| General | Dimension | 230mm x 177mm x 43mm |
| Weight | 1.25 kg | |
| Temperature | 0~45°C (Operation), -20~80°C (Storage) | |
| Power | AC 100V~240V ±10%, 50/60 Hz | |
| Consumption | ≤6W |
8. User Tips
- Optimal Signal Strength: Always aim for the highest possible signal strength and quality during tuner setup to ensure stable channel reception and conversion.
- Network Configuration: When using IPTV features, ensure your network is properly configured and has sufficient bandwidth to handle the streams, especially for multicast outputs.
- Regular Checks: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure and free from damage. Loose connections can lead to signal degradation.
- Environmental Considerations: Place the device in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating, which can affect performance and longevity.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the terms and conditions provided at the time of purchase or contact your vendor directly. For technical support, troubleshooting beyond the scope of this manual, or inquiries about service, please reach out to the manufacturer's customer service department or your authorized dealer. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy when contacting support.
