PLS - Physical Layer Scrambling

December 1, 2012.

Physical Layer Scrambling or PLS is used in DVB-S2 as a way to improve data integrity. A number called the "scrambling sequence index" is used by the modulator as a master key to generate the uplink signal. This same number must be known by the receiver so that demodulation is possible.

Most satellite transponders use PLS 0 as a default value but there are some transponders that use other values.

Unidentified DVB-S2 satellite transponder

We press F2 and enter the corresponding PLS sequence number

RANGERNeo + and RANGERNeo Lite field strength meters are compatible with this type of signals. The PLS sequence number can be entered under F2 as shown in the above right picture.

After entering the PLS sequence number, the satellite transponder has been locked

Now the instrument is able to decode the picture and audio

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PROMAX is a leading manufacturer of test and measurement systems, broadcast and TV signal distribution equipment. Our product lines include measuring instruments for cable TV, satellite TV, broadcast, wireless and fibre optics networks, FTTH and GPON analyzers. DVB-T modulators, IP streamers or IP converters (ASI, DVB-T) are among the company’s latest developments.