Abstract: Satellite signal-based control and management of utility grids is provided. Satellite signal measurements at one or more remote receiver devices may be utilized, for example, to determine an actual or estimated amount of cloud disruption in a given area. The cloud disruption data may then be utilized, in some embodiments, to predict solar generation output and/or grid demand levels, and/or modify electrical grid settings to accommodate for such solar generation levels.

Abstract: A method of indicating data quality provided to a digital data receiver. The digital data receiver is typically a broadcast data receiver or set top box receiving digital data from a remote location. The method employs a Forward Error Correction (FEC) method of turbo decoding of the received data, with received data being decoded and errors detected using one or more turbo code decoding stages. The method includes the steps of monitoring and/or measuring error output produced from each of the turbo code decoding stages to obtain an error value at each stage. The error value from each stage is used to calculate a bit error rate (BER) which in turn is used to indicate signal quality using BDR vs Eb/No relationship.

Abstract: Electrical apparatus, such as a printed circuit board for a broadcast data receiver, is provided. The apparatus includes a number of components (4; 12) which are required to be interconnected in a manner to allow the transmission of data therebetween. At least two of these components (4; 12) are provided with communication means to allow communication of data and the communication means are in the form of a light emitter and receiver.

Abstract: The invention relates to apparatus and a control system for use with receivers for the reception of digital data which is broadcast from a remote location, typically by television broadcast companies. The invention provides a reduced cost of manufacture and parts and greater commonality between receivers for selective use in various marketplaces and customers. The invention relates to the provision of at least two bandwidth filters selectively operable and selectively operable at different IF frequencies. Control means are provided for selectively rendering one or the other of said filters operable to allow the provision of a receiver with selective variable resolution bandwidth and to allow the selective dual up down conversion.