Kabelsats

Kabelsats is a Dutch term historically used to describe a hybrid method of distributing satellite-broadcast content through a cable television network. In this approach, content delivered by satellites is gathered at a central headend and then redistributed over the local coaxial or fiber network to subscribers. The aim was to expand channel choices beyond what a single local cable feed could offer, by leveraging satellite signals while using established cable infrastructure to reach homes.

Historically, kabelsats emerged as cable operators sought to provide international and premium channels without requiring each customer to install a personal satellite dish. Signals received at the headend could be decoded, sometimes encrypted for premium services, and then re-modulated onto the cable network in a format compatible with consumer equipment. This often involved equipment such as satellite tuners, modulators, and conditional-access systems integrated into the headend.

Technically, the setup includes a satellite reception chain (dish and LNB), headend processing (tuning, decrypting, and modulating), and a distribution network that delivers signals to subscribers, typically using DVB-C standards with compatible set-top boxes or integrated tuners at the customer premises. Rights management and encryption were common features for pay channels.

Today, kabelsats is largely a historical concept. Modern practices favor direct satellite reception, digital cable (DVB-C in a pure sense), or IPTV and hybrid solutions. In Dutch-language sources, kabelsats is often described as a transitional or legacy approach rather than a standard contemporary service.