Low-noise block downconverters (LNBs)[1] are electronic devices coupled to satellite dishes for TV reception or general telecommunication that convert electromagnetic waves into digital signals that can be used to transform information into human or machine interpretable data, e.g., optical images, video, code, communications, etc.
Monoblock (or monobloc) low-noise block downconverters are a special type of LNBs representing a single device that contains several (typically 2–4) LNB units and a Digital Satellite Equipment Control (DiSEqC) switch.
In Europe, for example, there are monoblock single, twin, and quad LNBs for the Ku band, which have a pre-defined spacing of 6 degrees (for Astra 19.2°E/Hot Bird 13°E).
In March 2007, a new type of monoblock, called the Duo LNB was introduced by CanalDigitaal in the Netherlands for the simultaneous reception of Astra 19.2°E/Astra 23.5°E with a spacing of just 4.3 degrees.
However, the main limiting factors are market demands and the popularization of narrow directional beams among TV stations broadcasters, who generally object to inclusive broad audiences despite the clear advantage of lowering the aggregate carbon footprint of monoblock LNBs.
Another adoption barrier for monoblock LNBs with 16 satellites positions is the need for a special shape of antenna dish, which restricts the market potential.
Using DiSEqC 1.1 7-8 satellites positions from 24° spacing could be addressed and received with a lot of success by standard size and shape dish in some densely populated areas across the globe.
A cost-effective solution overcoming this obstacle may lead innovative designs of large matricesd of multiple LNBs tightly packed into a single monoblock LNB receiver.