• ATCi offers local channel transmit alternative
By Brian Santo
Antenna Technology Communications Inc. (ATCi) can now deliver local TV stations, in high-definition (HD), directly to target markets via satellite. The company says the method can save cable and broadcast companies millions of dollars a year compared with the traditional means of transmitting local channels from tower to tower using microwave technology.
ATCi says its new delivery system is a custom design that leverages advanced coding technology – MPEG-4/DVB-S2 and H.264 – to deliver HD broadcasts to designated market areas (DMAs) over satellite. Cable operators would have to transcode the signal to deliver the channels through legacy MPEG-2 equipment. The cost savings derive largely from using MPEG-4 and DVB-S2 to nearly double the data throughput.
“We love this technology, said Gary Hatch, ATCi’s CEO. “Instead of using the traditional two-transponder solution to distribute (10) HDTV local channels throughout a traditional DMA, we have been able to provide services direct to translators and headends. This cost savings really allows all communities to receive equal services.”
• Anritsu extends NGN test abilities
By Brian Santo
Anritsu has extended the 100 Gbps test capabilities of its Signal Quality Analyzer with the introduction of pre-code/decode software that has been developed to support the latest optical phase modulation schemes.
With the new software, Anritsu’s MP1800A can analyze DP-QPSK, DQPSK, DPSK and ODB, used in next-generation networks (NGNs).
The new software package complements the two-channel mux/demux configuration of the MP1800A to provide device manufacturers with a flexible test solution for evaluating high-speed optical modulators and transponders. All electrical, modulation and demodulation signals required for evaluating DP-QPSK, DQPSK, DPSK and ODB devices are generated automatically by the MP1800A.
