DEKTEC · PROMAX · Test, measurement and analysis for MPEG, DVB, ASI, SDI, IP and RF
Video Test and Measurement
There are three jobs in a digital TV chain: generating the test signal, capturing the signal and analysing what is inside it. DEKTEC’s PCIe cards, USB adapters, IP products and software do all three on a standard PC: test modulator, DVB receiver, SDI/ASI input/output card, SMPTE 2110 SmartNIC, the StreamXpert MPEG transport stream (TS) analyzer and the StreamXpress stream player. This page shows the complete current DEKTEC range and PROMAX’s two MPEG tools, each with a photo, a short description and a comparison table per product group.
- MPEG-2 TS · DVB · ATSC · ISDB
- ASI · SD/HD/3G/12G-SDI
- SMPTE 2110 · SMPTE 2022
- RF: 32 MHz – 3225 MHz
- DVB-S2X · DVB-T2 · DVB-C2 · ATSC 3.0
- TR 101 290
- PCIe · USB-3 · PoE · OEM module
- Windows and Linux SDK
We help you choose the right card, adapter and software licence, and handle quotation, delivery and after-sales support. We are authorised to sell DEKTEC and PROMAX products worldwide, shipping via Germany or Turkey.
DEKTEC and PROMAX Products for MPEG, ASI, SDI and IP Video Test, Measurement and Analysis
DEKTEC (the Netherlands) products work as building blocks: the hardware (card, adapter or module) brings the signal into the PC or sends it out; the software (StreamXpert, StreamXpress, SdEye, MuxXpert…) analyses, plays, records or remultiplexes that signal. If you want to write your own application, the same hardware is driven through the free DTAPI SDK. The table below shows which group to look at for your task.
| Your task | Product group | Models to look at |
|---|---|---|
| Generate an RF test signal for set-top box, TV or receiver testing | Test modulators | DTU-315 (portable), DTA-2111B, DTA-2115B, DTA-2116 |
| Receive and measure an on-air RF signal and bring the TS into the PC | Receiver cards and RF probes | DTA-2131B, DTU-331, DTA-2132, DTA-2139C |
| Build a high-density satellite-to-IP gateway | Receiver cards | DTA-2127 (4×), DTA-2128 (8×) |
| Bring SDI or ASI into a PC, or output it from a PC | SDI/ASI input/output | DTA-2172, DTA-2174B, DTA-2178, DTU-351, DTU-245 |
| Develop an uncompressed video-over-IP application with SMPTE 2110 | SmartNICs and IP products | DTA-2110 (10G), DTA-2125 (25G) |
| Embed ASI/IP conversion or satellite reception in your own product | OEM modules | DTM-3200, DTM-3224, DTM-3237B |
| Analyse a transport stream and see TR 101 290 errors | Software | StreamXpert; for file analysis the free PROMAX TSAnalyser |
| Play a TS or SDI file and use it as a test signal | Software | StreamXpress |
| Remultiplex services (transport stream multiplexer) | Software | MuxXpert |
| Record an ASI transport stream for hours in the field and play it back later | PROMAX MPEG tools | PROMAX TG-140 |
DEKTEC Test Modulators
DEKTEC’s all-digital test modulators cover all digital TV modulation standards in use around the world. There are four current models; they differ in frequency range, modulation bandwidth, output level range and form factor. Standards not included in the base product are added as options; the GOLD edition includes all options. Playout and modulation parameters are controlled from the StreamXpress software.
DEKTEC DTU-315
36 – 2150 MHz · USB-3 · portable
Portable test modulator for satellite, terrestrial and cable standards in a single device. Bus-powered, no power supply required; used in the field with a laptop. Modulation bandwidth up to 70 MHz. ATSC 8VSB is included in the base product.
DEKTEC DTA-2111B
36 – 1002 MHz · PCIe · cable/terrestrial
Attractively priced cable and terrestrial modulator for QAM-, OFDM- and VSB-based standards. Digital upconversion gives a typical MER above 40 dB. Well suited for OEM integration.
DEKTEC DTA-2115B
32 – 2186 MHz · PCIe · 72 MHz bandwidth
High-end modulator for virtually all cable, satellite and terrestrial standards. Output level programmable from -60 to 0 dBm. An optional firmware turns it into eight independent 8 MHz modulators.
DEKTEC DTA-2116
32 – 3225 MHz · PCIe · 100 MHz bandwidth
Top of the line: cable, terrestrial, satellite and software-defined (I/Q) signal generation. Typical MER 50 dB, output -90 to -5 dBm. SFN-capable, with 10 MHz and 1pps reference inputs.
Test modulator comparison table
| DTU-315 | DTA-2111B | DTA-2115B | DTA-2116 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Interface | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (bus-powered) | PCIe 1.1 x1 | PCIe Gen3 x1 | Low-profile PCIe Gen3 x4 |
| RF frequency range | 36 – 2150 MHz (VHF, UHF, L-band) | 36 – 1002 MHz (VHF, UHF) | 32 – 2186 MHz (VHF, UHF, L-band) | 32 – 3225 MHz |
| Modulation bandwidth | Up to 70 MHz | Up to 8 MHz | Up to 72 MHz; 8 × 8 MHz with 8-channel firmware | Up to 100 MHz |
| RF output level | -45 to -25 dBm | -32 to -9 dBm (QAM) · -35 to -12 dBm (OFDM) | -60 to 0 dBm | -90 to -5 dBm (32 – 1000 MHz) · -90 to -12 dBm (1000 – 3225 MHz) |
| Typical MER | — | > 40 dB | 42 dB | 50 dB (equalized) |
| Phase noise | — | < -95 dBc @ 100 kHz | < -116 dBc @ 10 kHz | < -112 dBc @ 10 kHz |
| RF output | 75 Ω micro-BNC | 75 Ω F | 50 Ω SMA + 75 Ω F monitor output | 50 Ω SMA + 75 Ω F monitor output |
| Reference input | — | — | 10 MHz + 1pps (2× BNC) | 10 MHz + 1pps (2× SMA) |
| Standards included in base product | ATSC 8VSB, DVB-C, DVB-CID, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-T, DVB-T2 (single PLP), QAM-B, QAM-C | ATSC 1.0, DVB-C, DVB-T, QAM-B, QAM-C | ATSC 8VSB, DVB-C, DVB-CID, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-T, DVB-T2 (single PLP), QAM-B, QAM-C | ATSC 1.0, DVB-C, DVB-CID, DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-T, DVB-T2 (single PLP), QAM-B, QAM-C, I/Q sample playout |
| Optional standards | ATSC-M/H, ATSC 3.0, CMMB, DAB(+), DRM(+), T-DMB, DTMB, DVB-C2, DVB-S2X, DVB-T2 multi PLP, ISDB-S, ISDB-S3, ISDB-T, ISDB-Tmm | ATSC-M/H, CMMB, DAB(+), T-DMB, DTMB, DVB-C2, DVB-T2, ISDB-T, ISDB-Tmm | ATSC-M/H, ATSC 3.0, CMMB, DAB(+), DRM(+), T-DMB, DTMB, DVB-C2, DVB-S2X, DVB-T2 multi PLP, ISDB-S, ISDB-S3, ISDB-T, ISDB-Tmm | ATSC-M/H, ATSC 3.0, CMMB, DAB(+), DRM(+), T-DMB, DTMB, DVB-C2, DVB-S2X, DVB-T2 multi PLP, ISDB-S, ISDB-S3, ISDB-T, ISDB-Tmm |
| Other options | I/Q sample playout, AWGN insertion, multipath echo simulation, remotely controlled playout | I/Q sample playout, AWGN insertion, multipath echo simulation, remotely controlled playout | I/Q sample playout, AWGN insertion, multipath echo simulation, remotely controlled playout | AWGN insertion, multipath echo simulation, remotely controlled playout |
— : not stated on the manufacturer’s product page. Values are taken from the dektec.com product pages; the current datasheet is binding.
DEKTEC Receiver Cards and RF Probes
DEKTEC receivers come in two classes. An SDR (software defined radio) receiver performs all signal processing in software: it supports many standards, gives access to all data in the channel and offers advanced RF measurements (DTA-2131B, DTU-331). A demodulator-chip based receiver takes no cycles from the host CPU and receives many channels on one card (DTA-2127, DTA-2128, DTA-2139C). The received transport stream is analysed with StreamXpert and recorded with VF-REC.
DEKTEC DTA-2131B
42 – 1002 MHz · PCIe · SDR
Software-defined cable/terrestrial receiver: ATSC 1.0 and 3.0, DAB(+), DVB-C(2), DVB-T, DVB-T2, ISDB-T and J.83 A/B/C. Receives the full channel; offers I/Q sample capturing and T2-MI output. The -XPRT option enables advanced RF measurements.
DEKTEC DTU-331
42 – 3220 MHz · USB-3 · SDR probe
Pocket-sized SDR receiver for on-the-go measurements of cable, terrestrial and satellite signals. A dual-tuner design tunes from 42 to 3220 MHz; I/Q sampling at 1 – 80 Msps. Bus-powered. Currently supported under Windows only.
DEKTEC DTA-2132
950 – 2150 MHz · PCIe · DVB-S2X
Professional-grade satellite receiver card with high-quality RF measurements: constellations up to 256APSK, symbol rate up to 72 MBd, data rate up to 425 Mbps. For satellite monitoring, modulator testing and high-speed data distribution.
DEKTEC DTA-2127
4× DVB-S2X · 3G-SDI/ASI output
Low-profile card that receives four DVB-S2X carriers at once from two L-band inputs; made for PC-based satellite-to-IP gateways. An independent ASI/SDI output delivers a transport stream or a fully decoded TV service.
DEKTEC DTA-2128
8× DVB-S2X · 4 L-band inputs
Receives eight DVB-S2X streams simultaneously through four L-band inputs. For high-density satellite gateways, with advanced monitoring and real-time statistics.
DEKTEC DTA-2139C
12 channels · 42 – 1002 MHz · PCIe
Twelve receivers on one card, supporting a mix of terrestrial (ATSC 3.0, ATSC 1.0, DVB-T/T2, ISDB-T) and cable (DVB-C/C2, ITU J.83) signals. All twelve channels are demodulated simultaneously, so a complete network is monitored in real time. All standards are included.
Receiver cards and RF probes comparison table
| DTA-2131B | DTU-331 | DTA-2132 | DTA-2127 | DTA-2128 | DTA-2139C | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Number of receivers | 1 (SDR) | 1 (SDR) | 1 | 4 (2 per input) | 8 (2 per input) | 12 |
| Frequency range | 42 – 1002 MHz | 42 – 3220 MHz | 950 – 2150 MHz | 950 – 2150 MHz | 950 – 2150 MHz | 42 – 1002 MHz |
| Standards | ATSC 1.0, ATSC 3.0, DAB(+), DVB-C(2), DVB-T, DVB-T2 v1.3.1, ISDB-T/Tsb, J.83 A/B/C | ATSC 1.0, ATSC 3.0, DAB(+), DVB-C(2), DVB-CID, DVB-S, DVB-T, DVB-T2 v1.3.1, ISDB-T/Tsb, J.83 A/B/C | DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-S2X | DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-S2X | DVB-S, DVB-S2, DVB-S2X | DVB-C, DVB-C2, QAM-B, QAM-C, ATSC 1.0, ATSC 3.0, DVB-T, DVB-T2, ISDB-T |
| Input level | -90 to -10 dBm | -90 to -20 dBm | -80 to -20 dBm | -70 to -20 dBm | -70 to -20 dBm | -80 to -20 dBm |
| MER measurement range | 3 – 47 dB | 10 – 42 dB | 3 – 35 dB | 0 – 22 dB | 0 – 22 dB | 3 – 40 dB |
| Satellite: constellation / symbol rate | — | — | Up to 256APSK / up to 72 MBd | Up to 32APSK / 1 – 54 MBd | Up to 32APSK / 1 – 54 MBd | — |
| I/Q sample capturing | Yes | Yes (1 – 80 Msps) | Yes | — | — | — |
| Extra | T2-MI output | T2-MI output | DVB-CID analysis | 1× 3G-SDI/ASI output; LNB 13/18 V, DiSEqC | LNB 13/18 V, DiSEqC | All standards included |
| RF input | 75 Ω F | 75 Ω micro-BNC | 75 Ω F | 2× 75 Ω F | 4× 75 Ω F | 75 Ω F |
| Interface | PCIe Gen1 x1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 (Type-C) | PCIe Gen2 x4 | PCIe Gen1 x4 | PCIe Gen1 x4 | PCIe Gen1 x4 |
— : not applicable or not stated on the manufacturer’s product page. Values are taken from the dektec.com product pages; the current datasheet is binding.
DEKTEC SDI/ASI Input/Output Cards and USB Adapters
Cards that bring uncompressed SDI video and ASI transport streams into a PC or output them from a PC. On the PCIe cards each port is set in software as input or output, SDI or ASI. The free DekTec Matrix API 2.0 gives 10-bit full-frame access, low latency and audio/video/ANC insertion and extraction; it is the basis for software encoders, decoders, playout and monitoring applications.
DEKTEC DTA-2172
2× 3G-SDI/ASI · genlock
Two bi-directional 3G-SDI ports, both ASI capable, with a genlock input. A general-purpose card for encoding, playout and insertion/extraction applications.
DEKTEC DTA-2174B
4× 3G-SDI/ASI · port 1 12G
The workhorse for interfacing uncompressed video to PCs. Port 1 supports full 12G-SDI; 4Kp50/60 is carried over 12G or 4× 3G quad-link. A good fit for 4K encoders and decoders.
DEKTEC DTA-2178
8× 12G-SDI/ASI · genlock
Eight ports that handle SD to 3G SDI and ASI in any mix. Ports 1 and 5 receive and transmit full 12G-SDI (2× 2160p50/60). Each port can scale 4K to 2K, so eight 12G-SDI signals can be monitored.
DEKTEC DTA-2175
HD-SDI/ASI input + output · relay bypass
A relay automatically connects input to output on a software or hardware failure, so a highly available system is built without a separate failover switch.
DEKTEC DTU-351
HD-SDI input · USB-3
Affordable adapter for getting HD-SDI into a laptop or PC: all video lines, 16 audio channels and HANC/VANC packets. Bus-powered.
DEKTEC DTU-245 FantASI
ASI/SD-SDI input + output · USB-2
DEKTEC’s classic portable ASI adapter. Receives and transmits ASI transport streams with a laptop; a basic tool for every DTV field engineer.
SDI/ASI cards and adapters comparison table
| DTA-2172 | DTA-2174B | DTA-2178 | DTA-2175 | DTU-351 | DTU-245 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ports | 2× in/out + genlock in | 4× in/out + genlock in | 8× in/out + genlock in | 1 input + 1 output | 1 input | 1 input + 1 output |
| Highest SDI rate | 3G-SDI | 12G-SDI (port 1); other ports 3G | 12G-SDI (ports 1 and 5 full; others input by scaling to 3G) | HD-SDI | HD-SDI | SD-SDI |
| 4K (2160p) | — | Yes: 12G or 4× 3G quad-link | Yes: 2× 2160p50/60 | — | — | — |
| DVB-ASI | 0 – 214 Mbps | 0 – 214 Mbps | 0 – 214 Mbps | 0 – 214 Mbps | — | 0 – 214 Mbps (half-duplex) · 0 – 160 Mbps (full-duplex) |
| Relay bypass | — | — | — | Yes | — | — |
| Hardware scaling | 1/4, 1/16 | 1/4, 1/16 | 1/4, 1/16 | 1/4, 1/16 | 1/4, 1/16 | — |
| DekTec Matrix API 2.0 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | — |
| Connectors | 3× 75 Ω micro-BNC | 5× 75 Ω micro-BNC | 9× 75 Ω micro-BNC | 2× 75 Ω BNC | 75 Ω BNC | 2× 75 Ω BNC |
| Cable length | 3G 150 m · HD 200 m · ASI/SD 350 m | 12G 50 m · 6G 55 m · 3G 150 m · HD 200 m | 12G 50 m · 6G 55 m · 3G 150 m · HD 200 m | HD 210 m · ASI/SD 375 m | — | — |
| Interface | Low-profile PCIe Gen2 x4 | Low-profile PCIe Gen3 x4 | Low-profile PCIe Gen3 x8 | Low-profile PCIe Gen2 x1 | USB 3.2 Gen 1 | USB 2.0 |
— : not applicable or not stated on the manufacturer’s product page. Values are taken from the dektec.com product pages; the current datasheet is binding.
DEKTEC SMPTE 2110 SmartNICs and IP Products
The SmartNICs work as standard network cards under Linux and Windows; the difference is that PTP synchronisation and SMPTE 2110 packetising are done in hardware, which leaves memory bandwidth and CPU cycles for your application. The free AvFifo API (part of DTAPI) and the FFmpeg integration are used to build synchronised video-over-IP applications. The DTE-3114 is a standalone QAM modulator with IP input that needs no PC.
DEKTEC DTA-2110
1× 10G SFP+ · SMPTE 2110
10G network card for moving into SMPTE 2110 application development. Three receive and three transmit hardware pipes (3 Rx + 3 Tx); also accepts 1G SFP modules.
DEKTEC DTA-2125
1× 25G SFP28 · SMPTE 2110
Up to two uncompressed UHD streams or ten full-HD streams (5 Rx + 5 Tx). Built-in PTP synchronisation; also accepts 10G SFP+ modules.
DEKTEC DTE-3114
IP → 4× QAM · PoE
Standalone quad QAM-A/B/C modulator with IP input (DVB-C, J.83 Annex B and C). Powered over Ethernet; tolerates 1 – 120 ms of IP jitter. 32 – 1006 MHz, MER > 43 dB. Managed through a web interface and SNMP.
SMPTE 2110 SmartNIC comparison table
| DTA-2110 | DTA-2125 | |
|---|---|---|
| Port | 1× 10G (SFP+); also works with 1G SFP modules | 1× 25G (SFP28); also works with 10G SFP+ modules |
| Ethernet standard | 10G Ethernet, IEEE 802.3ae | 25G Ethernet, IEEE 802.3by |
| Hardware pipes | 3 Rx + 3 Tx | 5 Rx + 5 Tx |
| Capacity | — | 2 uncompressed UHD or 10 full-HD streams |
| SMPTE 2110 | ST 2110-10, -20, -21, -30, -31, -40, -41 · PTP: ST 2059-1/2 | ST 2110-10, -20, -21, -30, -31, -40, -41 · PTP: ST 2059-1/2 |
| SMPTE 2022 | ST 2022-1, -2 (TS-over-IP) · ST 2022-5, -6 (SDI-over-IP) | ST 2022-1, -2 (TS-over-IP) · ST 2022-5, -6 (SDI-over-IP) |
| Networking | IPv4, IPv6 · jumbo frames (up to 9 kB) · VLAN IEEE 802.1Q | IPv4, IPv6 · jumbo frames (up to 9 kB) · VLAN IEEE 802.1Q |
| Limitation | Direct attach cables (DAC) not supported | Direct attach cables (DAC) not supported |
| Interface | Low-profile PCIe Gen3 x4 | Low-profile PCIe Gen3 x8 |
| Operating system | Linux, Windows 10/11, Windows Server | Linux, Windows 10/11, Windows Server |
— : not applicable or not stated on the manufacturer’s product page. Values are taken from the dektec.com product pages; the current datasheet is binding.
DEKTEC OEM Modules
Semi-finished modules for equipment manufacturers: DEKTEC has solved the complexity of IP and satellite reception, and the module goes into your product as a building block. Control is through serial protocols; a free C/C++ API (DtmHandler) handles the low-level command protocol.
DEKTEC DTM-3200
IP ↔ ASI · OEM module
Compact module that converts IP to ASI or ASI to IP (user programmable). Advanced IP-jitter filtering and low latency. Also available as DTM-3200-RA with right-angle connectors for reduced height.
DEKTEC DTM-3224
4× ASI → IP · OEM module
High-density module that converts four ASI transport streams to IP. Supports IPv6 and IGMP v3 (source-specific multicast).
DEKTEC DTM-3237B
DVB-S2X receiver · ASI output · OEM module
Standalone satellite receiver module designed for integration in your product. Full transport stream output; measures RF level, MER and BER. Successor to the DTM-3237.
OEM modules comparison table
| DTM-3200 | DTM-3224 | DTM-3237B | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | ASI → IP or IP → ASI (programmable) | 4× ASI → IP | DVB-S / S2 / S2X → ASI |
| Control | RS-232, RS-422, RS-485, I2C; USB requires DTM-3301 | USB, I2C, RS-232 | USB, I2C |
| IP | IPv4, UDP or RTP; SMPTE 2022-2; FEC: SMPTE 2022-1 | IPv4, IPv6, IGMP v3 SSM; SMPTE 2022-2; FEC: SMPTE 2022-1 | — |
| Rate | 0.01 – 214 Mbps | 214 Mbps per port, 750 Mbps total | Symbol rate 2 – 45 MBd |
| Latency | ASI → IP 1 ms max · IP → ASI 1 – 500 ms (programmable) | < 1 ms | — |
| RF | — | — | 950 – 2150 MHz (L-band) · -60 to -30 dBm · LNB 13/14/18/19 V, 500 mA |
| Inputs / outputs | RJ-45 1GbE · ASI in/out 75 Ω MCX · 8-bit parallel port | RJ-45 1GbE · 4× ASI in 75 Ω MCX | RF in 75 Ω MCX · ASI out 75 Ω MCX |
— : not applicable or not stated on the manufacturer’s product page. Values are taken from the dektec.com product pages; the current datasheet is binding.
DEKTEC Software: Analysis, Playout, Recording and Multiplexing
DEKTEC’s desktop applications fall into two groups: test and measurement applications that generate test signals and analyse DTV streams, and operational software such as a real-time multiplexer. The licence is stored on the DEKTEC hardware or on a USB dongle. A card and a software licence can also be ordered as a bundle (for example the DTA-2174B-SP with a StreamXpress licence).
DEKTEC StreamXpert
Real-time MPEG transport stream (TS) analyzer
The industry-standard MPEG-2 transport stream analyzer. Shows PIDs, services and tables in real time; decodes DVB-SI, ATSC-PSIP and ARIB; offers TR 101 290 templates, PCR analysis, live audio/video decoding and recording. Also analyses ATSC 3.0, SMPTE 2110, DAB(+), T2-MI and OTT streams.
DEKTEC StreamXpress
Transport stream (TS) player · test signal source
Seamless playout over ASI, RF, SDI or IP (including SMPTE 2110/2022 and SRT) with all DEKTEC output adapters. Includes the modulator GUIs; endless play with PCR correction and selective error injection. For R&D, testing and demos.
DEKTEC SdEye
SDI and SMPTE 2110 analyzer
Real-time and offline analysis of SDI up to 4K UHD, with SMPTE 2110 support. YCbCr waveforms, vectorscope, audio peak meter, ANC data, closed captions and teletext decoding, SCTE 104, HDR and Dolby metadata.
DEKTEC MuxXpert
Real-time transport stream multiplexer
Transport stream remultiplexer software: moves services and components from any input to any output. (P)SI extraction and regeneration, adding, modifying and dropping PIDs, services and tables, integrated file players. Runs on a standard or industrial PC.
DEKTEC VF-REC
TS / SDI recording software
Recording of transport streams (ASI, IP, RF) and SDI (SD, HD, 3G). A web-based GUI controls multiple simultaneous recordings; scheduled and looped recording and a file merging tool.
DEKTEC RFXpert
RF monitoring and analysis
Advanced RF measurements on terrestrial and cable digital TV signals: RF level and MER histograms, pre/post-FEC BER, spectrum, constellation, eye diagram, multipath echo profile. Works with the DTU-236A and DTU-238 probes.
Standard-specific RF tools: ATSC 3.0, DVB-T2, ISDB-Tmm
Applications named “Xpress” generate a signal and work with a DEKTEC modulator; applications named “Xpert” receive and analyse a signal and work with a DEKTEC SDR receiver.
DEKTEC Atsc3Xpert
ATSC 3.0 reception and analysis
ATSC 3.0 analyzer with advanced RF measurements and decoding of all signalling information. Records PLP data to PCAP files and outputs ALP and ROUTE/MMT over IP in real time.
DEKTEC Atsc3Xpress
ATSC 3.0 signal generator
Creates a broadcast-quality ATSC 3.0 signal from your desk. Full control of all parameters including subframes, multi-PLP and LDM, FDM, TDM and TFDM multiplexing; with channel simulation.
DEKTEC T2Xpert
DVB-T2 analysis
Real-time DVB-T2 analyzer: RF measurements in detailed graphs and all T2 signalling information. Single- and multi-PLP reception, T2-Lite and T2-MI output over IP.
DEKTEC T2Xpress
DVB-T2 signal generator
Full control over all DVB-T2 parameters: multi-PLP, T2-Lite profile, MISO simulation, PAPR and T2-MI output. Includes Receiver Buffer Model (RBM) validation.
DEKTEC TmmXpress
ISDB-Tmm signal generator
Generates an ISDB-Tmm, ISDB-TSB or ISDB-T test signal. Any combination of 13-, 3- and 1-segments up to a total of 33 segments.
Which software works with which DEKTEC hardware?
| Software | Function | Current DEKTEC hardware it works with |
|---|---|---|
| StreamXpert | Transport stream and stream analysis | ASI: DTA-2172, 2174B, 2175, 2178 · Receivers: DTA-2127, 2128, 2131B, 2132, 2139C, DTU-331 · TS-over-IP and SMPTE 2110: DTA-2110, 2125 · also a standard PC network port |
| StreamXpress | Playout, test signal | ASI/SDI: DTA-2172, 2174B, 2175, 2178, DTU-245 · Modulators: DTA-2111B, 2115B, 2116, DTU-315 · SMPTE 2110: DTA-2110 · PC network port (DTC-300-NICP licence) |
| SdEye | SDI and SMPTE 2110 analysis | SDI: DTA-2172, 2174B, 2175, 2178, DTU-351 · SMPTE 2110: DTA-2110, 2125 |
| MuxXpert | Remultiplexing | ASI: DTA-2172, 2174B, 2178, DTU-245 · Modulators: DTA-2111B, 2115B, 2116, DTU-315 · Receivers: DTA-2127, 2131B · TS-over-IP: DTA-2110, PC network port |
| VF-REC | Recording | SDI: DTA-2172, 2174B, 2175, 2178, DTU-351 · ASI: the same cards and DTU-245 · TS-over-IP: DTA-2110, PC network port · RF: DTA-2127, 2131B, 2139C, DTU-331 |
| RFXpert | RF monitoring and analysis | DTU-236A, DTU-238 |
| Atsc3Xpert · T2Xpert | ATSC 3.0 and DVB-T2 analysis | DTA-2131B, DTU-331 (-XPRT option) |
| Atsc3Xpress | ATSC 3.0 signal generation | DTA-2115B, DTA-2116, DTU-315 |
| T2Xpress | DVB-T2 signal generation | RF: DTA-2111B, 2115B, 2116, DTU-315 · T2-MI: all adapters supporting ASI or TS-over-IP |
| TmmXpress | ISDB-Tmm signal generation | DTA-2111B, DTA-2115B, DTA-2116, DTU-315 |
The list shows current models; DEKTEC applications continue to support most older models as well.
Software development kits (SDKs)
| SDK | What it does |
|---|---|
| DTAPI | C++ API for integrating DEKTEC hardware in your own application; Windows and Linux. Includes DTAPI.NET and the drivers. Free of charge. |
| DekTec Matrix API 2.0 | DTAPI classes for real-time processing of SDI audio and video in software: 4K UHD, HD and SD; low latency. With DTA-2172, 2174B, 2175, 2178 and DTU-351. |
| FFmpeg integration | Real-time SDI and SMPTE ST 2110 input/output through DEKTEC cards with ffmpeg and ffplay; ready-built binaries for Linux x64 and Windows x64. |
| MuxXpert SDK and runtime licence | API for writing your own real-time multiplexing application; SI extraction and regeneration, remote parameter control. |
| SpRcApi | Remote control API for StreamXpress; for automated file playout and modulation tests. |
| DtmHandler | C/C++ protocol handler source and command-line tool for the DTM-32xx OEM modules. |
PROMAX MPEG Tools: TG-140 and TSAnalyser
PROMAX’s MPEG product group holds two tools: a device that records and plays transport streams in the field or in a rack, and a free Windows program that analyses recorded transport stream files. Together they let you examine TS files captured with PROMAX field strength meters at your desk.
PROMAX TG-140
TS recorder / processor / player
Versatile MPEG-2 transport stream recorder and player. Records a transport stream continuously for hours (up to 15 hours at 20 Mbps) and plays it back whenever needed; the capacity can be divided into shorter streams. Input: ASI, 150 Mbps max. Outputs: ASI and SPI (parallel), 90 Mbps max. Storage: 160 GB hard disk. PC connection: USB and Ethernet.
Product page on promaxelectronics.com · Datasheet (PDF) · User manual (PDF) · Quick reference guide (PDF)
PROMAX TSAnalyser
Free software for transport stream analysis (MPEG TS analyzer)
Free Windows software for in-depth analysis of MPEG-2 transport streams in DVB digital television. Loads a .TS or .MPG file and shows the PSI/SI tables (PAT, PMT, NIT, BAT, SDT, EIT) in a tree structure per service. PCR values, audio/video bitrate graphs, PID distribution and TR 101 290 errors. DVB, ISDB-T and ATSC; compatible with files captured by PROMAX field strength meters and TS recorders.
Discontinued DEKTEC models still available in limited quantities
The models below are no longer in production, but they are still supported in DEKTEC applications, SDK and drivers, and limited stock may be available. If you need a spare or an extension for an existing system, ask us about stock; for new designs we recommend the current models above.
| Model | Function | Inputs / outputs | Current replacement | Archive leaflet |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DTE-3100 | Standalone IP → ASI converter (PoE) | 1G PoE (RJ-45) · 2× ASI out | — | DTE-3100 leaflet |
| DTE-3120 | Standalone ASI → IP converter (PoE) | 1G PoE (RJ-45) · ASI in + ASI loop-through | — | DTE-3120 leaflet |
| DTE-3137 | DVB-S/S2 satellite receiver with IP and ASI output (PoE) | 1G PoE (RJ-45) · L-band RF in · ASI out | — | DTE-3137 leaflet |
| DTU-236A | 8VSB/QAM and ASI analysis probe (USB-2) | RF in 75 Ω F · ASI in | — | DTU-236A leaflet |
| DTU-238 | DVB-T2/T/C(2), ISDB-T and ASI probe (USB-2) | RF in 75 Ω F · ASI in | — | DTU-238 leaflet |
| DTM-3237 | OEM DVB-S2 receiver module with ASI output | RF in MCX · ASI out MCX | DTM-3237B | DTM-3237 leaflet |
| DTA-2107 | Multi-standard satellite modulator (PCIe) | L-band RF out 75 Ω F | — | DTA-2107 leaflet |
| DTA-115 | Multi-standard cable/terrestrial modulator (PCI) | RF out 50 Ω BNC + 75 Ω F monitor | — | DTA-115 leaflet |
| DTA-2136 | Dual QAM-A/B/C receiver (PCIe) | 2× RF in · 2× ASI out | — | DTA-2136 leaflet |
| DTA-2138B | Single-channel cable/terrestrial receiver (PCIe) | VHF/UHF RF in 75 Ω F | — | DTA-2138B leaflet |
| DTA-2139B | Twelve-channel cable/terrestrial receiver (PCIe) | VHF/UHF RF in 75 Ω F | DTA-2139C | — |
| DTA-2142 | Serial and parallel port (PCIe) | 8-bit parallel port · ASI/SDI in/out · clock in | — | — |
| DTA-2144B | Quad ASI/SD-SDI ports (PCIe) | 4× ASI/SD-SDI in/out | — | DTA-2144B leaflet |
| DTA-2152 | Dual HD-SDI/ASI ports (PCIe) | 2× SDI/ASI in/out · genlock | DTA-2172 | DTA-2152 leaflet |
| DTA-2160 | GigE and 3× ASI ports (PCIe) | 1G RJ-45 · 3× ASI/SDI in/out | — | DTA-2160 leaflet |
| DTA-2162 | Dual 1GbE ports with SMPTE 2022-7 redundancy (PCIe) | 2× 1G RJ-45 | — | DTA-2162 leaflet |
| DTA-2174 | Quad 3G-SDI/ASI ports (PCIe) | 4× SDI/ASI in/out (DIN) · genlock | — | DTA-2174 leaflet |
| DTA-2178-ASI | Octal ASI ports (PCIe) | 8× ASI in/out (micro-BNC) | — | — |
| DTA-2179 | Twelve 3G-SDI/ASI ports (PCIe) | 12× SDI/ASI in/out (DIN) · genlock | — | DTA-2179 leaflet |
| DTA-2180 | H.264 HD hardware encoder (PCIe) | HD-SDI in · HDMI in · ASI out | — | DTA-2180 leaflet |
| DTA-2195 | 12G-SDI input and output with HDMI 2.0 (PCIe) | 3× BNC · HDMI 2.0 | — | — |
The “Current replacement” column shows only successors that DEKTEC names explicitly on its own pages.
Key concepts in video test and measurement
Transport stream (TS)
An MPEG-2 transport stream is a multiplex that carries the video, audio and data components of one or more TV services in 188-byte packets. Each component has a PID; PSI/SI tables such as PAT, PMT and SDT say which PID belongs to which service. DVB, ATSC and ISDB broadcasts all use this structure.
ASI and TS-over-IP
DVB-ASI is the serial interface that carries a transport stream over 75 Ω coaxial cable at 0 to 214 Mbps. The same stream is carried over an IP network in UDP or RTP packets (SMPTE 2022-2), with SMPTE 2022-1 FEC against packet loss. An ASI/IP converter moves the stream between the two.
SDI: SD, HD, 3G, 12G
SDI carries uncompressed video over coaxial cable inside the studio. SD-SDI runs at 270 Mbps, HD-SDI at 1.5 Gbps, 3G-SDI at 3 Gbps and 12G-SDI at 12 Gbps. 4K (2160p50/60) is carried over a single 12G link or over four 3G links (quad-link). The higher the rate, the shorter the cable run, so cable and connector choice matters.
SMPTE 2110
SMPTE ST 2110 carries uncompressed video, audio and ancillary data as separate streams over IP, all locked to the same clock through PTP (ST 2059). In software-based applications the bottleneck is sending packets with precise timing; a SmartNIC does this in hardware.
TR 101 290
ETSI TR 101 290 defines the errors to monitor in DVB transport streams in three priority levels: sync loss, PAT/PMT errors, continuity count errors, PCR errors and so on. Running these checks in real time is the first job of an MPEG TS analyzer.
MER and BER
MER (modulation error ratio) states in dB how close the received constellation points are to their ideal positions; it is the most direct indicator of RF signal quality. BER (bit error rate) is measured separately before and after error correction. The higher the MER of the test modulator, the more accurately the real limit of the receiver under test is measured.
From symptom to tool: which problem is examined with what?
| Symptom or task | What is measured or inspected | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| Blocking, freezing or audio drop-outs in the picture | TR 101 290 errors, continuity counter, PCR accuracy and jitter | StreamXpert + a DEKTEC adapter with ASI, IP or RF input |
| The receiver finds the channel but the service list is incomplete or wrong | PSI/SI tables: PAT, PMT, NIT, SDT, EIT | StreamXpert; for file analysis PROMAX TSAnalyser |
| Signal present but unstable on a cable or terrestrial network | RF level, MER, pre/post-FEC BER, constellation, echo profile | DTA-2131B or DTU-331 (-XPRT); DTA-2139C for multi-channel monitoring |
| Poor quality or interference on a satellite carrier | RF level, MER, constellation, DVB-CID | DTA-2132 |
| At which signal level and noise does a set-top box or TV receiver stop working | A test signal of known quality, stressed with level, AWGN and multipath echoes | DTU-315, DTA-2115B or DTA-2116 + StreamXpress |
| Captions, time code or an audio channel missing on an SDI line | ANC data, embedded audio, CRC/EDH errors, waveform | SdEye + DTA-2172, DTA-2174B, DTA-2178 or DTU-351 |
| A SMPTE 2110 stream is received but picture and sound drift | PTP lock, stream timing, content of the video/audio/ANC streams | SdEye or StreamXpert + DTA-2110, DTA-2125 |
| The problem occurs only now and then and cannot be caught | Long-term recording, then analysis on the file | VF-REC; for ASI as a standalone device the PROMAX TG-140 |
| A new multiplex has to be built from services of several sources | Service and PID selection, regeneration of tables | MuxXpert |
Frequently asked questions
What is StreamXpert and what is it used for?
StreamXpert is DEKTEC’s real-time MPEG transport stream analyzer software. It shows the PIDs, services and tables of a stream arriving over ASI, IP or RF, checks TR 101 290 errors, analyses the PCR and decodes audio and video. It needs a DEKTEC adapter that brings the signal into the PC, or a standard network port for TS-over-IP.
What is the difference between StreamXpress and StreamXpert?
StreamXpress plays, StreamXpert analyses. StreamXpress outputs a TS or SDI file through a DEKTEC output adapter as ASI, SDI, IP or modulated RF; it is the test signal source. StreamXpert shows what is inside an incoming signal. In a test set-up the two are often used together.
Which product is used as a transport stream multiplexer?
MuxXpert. It is real-time remultiplexing software that runs on a standard or industrial PC; it selects services from ASI, IP and RF inputs, builds a new transport stream and outputs it over ASI, IP or a modulator.
Should I choose a PCIe card or a USB adapter?
Choose a PCIe card for a fixed test system, for multiple channels or for high data rates (12G-SDI, 100 MHz modulation bandwidth, multi-channel reception); choose a USB adapter for work in the field with a laptop. Portable counterparts: DTU-315 as modulator, DTU-331 as receiver, DTU-351 for SDI input, DTU-245 for ASI.
Will my older DEKTEC card work with the new software?
DEKTEC continues to support most discontinued products in its applications, SDK and drivers. Send us the model number of your card and the software you want to use and we will confirm compatibility for you.
Do DEKTEC products work under Linux?
Windows and Linux drivers and the DTAPI SDK are available for most cards and adapters. The desktop applications (StreamXpert, StreamXpress, SdEye…) are Windows applications. There are exceptions; the DTU-331, for example, is currently supported under Windows only. State your operating system when you ask for a quote.
Are the PROMAX GV-798+ and GV-898+ TV pattern generators still available?
No. Production of the PROMAX GV-798+ and GV-898+ PAL/NTSC/SECAM TV pattern generators has ended. Digital TV receivers are tested today with a test modulator (for example the DEKTEC DTU-315) and StreamXpress.
Is PROMAX TSAnalyser really free?
Yes. TSAnalyser is a Windows program that is downloaded free of charge from the PROMAX website; it analyses recorded .TS and .MPG files. Real-time analysis of a live signal needs a hardware-based analyzer such as StreamXpert.
Why PROTEL?
| Topic | How |
|---|---|
| Distributor | General distributor in Turkey for DEKTEC since 2005 and for PROMAX since 1989 |
| Sales territory | Worldwide for DEKTEC and PROMAX products; shipped via Germany or Turkey |
| Card and licence selection | We work out the right combination of card, options and licence for your signal type, channel count and software |
| Scope | Test modulators, receivers, SDI/ASI and IP cards, OEM modules, analysis and playout software; plus field strength meters, cables and connectors |
| Service and training | See our engineering, service, calibration and training page |
Request a quote for video test and measurement products
To let us recommend the right product quickly, please tell us:
- Signal type — ASI, SDI (SD/HD/3G/12G), TS-over-IP, SMPTE 2110 or RF
- For RF: standard and frequency — DVB-S2/S2X, DVB-T2, DVB-C, ATSC, ISDB-T…
- Direction and channel count — how many inputs, how many outputs
- The job — analysis, playout, recording, multiplexing, test signal generation or your own application
- Platform — desktop PC (PCIe slot type), laptop (USB) or embedded (OEM)
- Operating system — Windows or Linux
- DEKTEC hardware and licences you already have — model numbers, if any
E-mail: [email protected] · Phone: +90 212 221 80 60 · WhatsApp: +90 532 265 91 99
Documents
Leaflets and datasheets of the current models are linked under each product card. Leaflets in the PROTEL archive (PDF):
- Current hardware: DTA-2115B · DTU-315 · DTU-245 · DTE-3114 · DTM-3200 · DTM-3224
- Software: StreamXpert 2.0 · StreamXpress · MuxXpert · SdEye · RFXpert · T2Xpress · TmmXpress
- Previous-generation models (discontinued): DTA-2111 · DTA-2131 · DTA-2137C · DTA-2139 · DTA-2145 · DTA-2154 · DTU-215 · DTA-105 · DTA-107 · DTA-145 · DTA-160
- Previous-generation software: Xpect Mosaic · Qualify · HEVC Analyzer
- PROMAX: TG-140 datasheet · TG-140 user manual · TSAnalyser download page
Related pages
- MPEG stream analyzer, DVB analyzer
- TV, cable and satellite field strength meters
- Cable TV analyzers
- DVB, MPEG, ASI, SDI system products
- ASI/IP and IP/ASI converter
- DekTec products · Promax products
- Test and measuring instruments, software
The DEKTEC product images and technical information on this page are © DekTec Digital Video B.V.; the PROMAX product images and technical information are © PROMAX Test & Measurement, S.L.U. They are used with the manufacturers’ permission. Technical values are taken from the manufacturers’ product pages; the current datasheet is binding. Source: dektec.com · promaxelectronics.com