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DVB-S2X: Advantages and Disadvantages

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This page covers the advantages and disadvantages of DVB-S2X, along with its fundamental concepts. It highlights the benefits and drawbacks of DVB-S2X.

What is DVB-S2X?

Introduction:

DVB-S2X is an extension of the DVB-S2 standard, incorporating numerous new features. Its common applications include DTH (Direct To Home), VSAT, DSNG, 5G cellular services, and mobile applications. DVB-S2X maintains backward compatibility with DVB-S2. The ETSI EN 302 307-2 (part-2) document details the specifications of DVB second generation, covering frame structure, channel coding, and modulation.

DVB-S Evolution Timeline DVB-S Evolution Timeline

DVB-S2X, similar to DVB-S2, utilizes LDPC and BCH as inner and outer code FEC (Forward Error Correction) techniques.

Major Features of DVB-S2X:

  • Increased granularity in modulation/coding modes
  • Filter roll-off factors of 5%, 10%, 20%, 25%, and 35% are supported
  • Supports QPSK, 8PSK, 8/16/32 APSK, 64/128/256 APSK
  • Channel bonding up to 3 channels
  • New constellations designed for linear and nonlinear channels
  • Super Frame option
  • Supports 116 MODCODs, up to 256 APSK 11/15, three frame sizes (normal, short, medium)
  • Enhanced scrambling options for mitigating co-channel interference

Benefits or Advantages of DVB-S2X

The following are the benefits and advantages of DVB-S2X:

  • It supports very low C/N (Carrier-to-Noise Ratio), typically down to -10dB.
  • It allows the use of smaller antennas due to technological advancements.
  • It offers an efficiency gain of up to 51% compared to DVB-S2.
  • Improved filtering capabilities enable smaller carrier spacing.
  • Channel bonding facilitates the combination of multiple carriers to enhance efficiency for UHD TV services.
  • Scrambling options help to counteract co-channel interference.

Drawbacks or Disadvantages of DVB-S2X

The following are the drawbacks and disadvantages of DVB-S2X:

  • Similar to DVB-S2, the implementation complexity is higher than the DVB-S standard.
  • The upgrade process presents challenges due to the extensive deployment of DVB-S standard devices worldwide.
  • DVB-S2X devices are more expensive compared to DVB-S2 and previous versions.
  • The DVB-S2X standard largely retains the DVB-S2 main architecture with some modifications, rendering it non-backward compatible with the DVB-S2 standard.