14 April 2002
Satcoms
Convergent Media Selects SkyStream to Power New Managed Enterprise
Services
HNS
Europe Signs K-Class Communications as DirecWay Broadband Service Provider
Intelsat Selects
SkyStream's Networking Solution For TV Video Multicast Trial
Norsat Completes Largest Shipment of
Ka/Ku Band Commercial ODUs
PanAmSat and Embratel to Deliver Services to Remote Areas Of
Brazil
Military
Space
Harris
Corporation Receives Antenna Contract Option for Additional Wideband Gapfiller
Satellites
Signal
Corporation Awarded US Army Satcoms Support Order
Manned
Space
MDA Awarded Cdn$ 18
Million for Future Support Of Space Station Robotics
Technology
MicroSat Systems Awards Contract to Raytheon
Launch
Services
Aerojet
Validates Tri-Fluid Injector for Air Force Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine
Boeing Announces Delta
IV Heavy Launch Assignment
Praxair Signs Contract for Rocket Launch Propellants
Shuttle Atlantis
Flies with Three New P&W Fuel Turbopumps
Launches
STS 110 - ITS S0 Truss and Mobile Transporter
Business
Alcatel Space and Gilat Announce Strategic Broadband
Partnership
Barutiwa Reinvents Itself
California Amplifier
Acquires Kaul-Tronics Business
Eutelsat Increases Investment in Hispasat
Mentergy to Spin-Off
Satellite-Based Communications Services Business
New Broadband Joint Venture
in Europe
SES
Global and Alcatel Space Announce Broadband Access Partnership
Products and Services
Inmarsat Announce Availability of the 64kbit/s Mobile Office in
the Sky
Irdeto
Access Launches Irdeto PIsys, Conditional Access System
Motorola and N2 Broadband to
Maximise Satellite Bandwidth
Satellite Tool Kit 4.3 Released
SkyStream Unveils EVR-7000 Edge
Video Router
Tachyon Launches Transportable Broadband Network Access
Telenor Satellite
Services to Launch Global Maritime Communications Service
Wegener Introduces Compel Customer
Web Access
Wegener's Unity200 for Digital Audio Distribution
People
Fantastic Announces Management Changes
Richardson Electronics Expands
Satellite Staffing
Convergent Media Selects SkyStream to Power New Managed
Enterprise Services
Convergent Media Systems Corporation, a leading
provider of high-quality video solutions for eLearning and corporate
communications, has selected SkyStream's Source Media and Edge Media Routers
(SMRs and EMRs) to deliver new enterprise communication services to businesses
via satellite including many Global 2000 companies.
SkyStream's Edge Media Routers are a key component to Convergent's new
enterprise service offerings to its blue chip customers, enabling them to
efficiently and reliably receive IP data at the network edge and deliver
streaming data content over enterprise LAN-based networks.
HNS Europe Signs K-Class Communications as DirecWay
Broadband Service Provider
K-Class Communications Ltd. has signed on to offer
Hughes Network Systems Europe's (HNSE) DirecWay high-speed Internet services to
small and medium-sized businesses.
K-Class, working
through its partnership with One North East, a Regional Development Agency for
the North East of England within the United Kingdom, will now offer DirecWay
two-way, high-speed Internet connectivity via satellite throughout the
region.
Installation has begun with service available to users in
April 2002.
Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom, K-Class
Communications Ltd. offers Internet broadband by satellite, ADSL, lease line
connectivity and wireless networks.
Intelsat Selects SkyStream's Networking Solution For TV Video
Multicast Trial
Intelsat has selected SkyStream's end-to-end broadcast
content delivery solution for its global multicast trial, delivering US and
European television content to broadcast companies in the Asia-Pacific
region.
The trial is significant because it demonstrates
an efficient and cost-effective way to deliver TV-quality video content over a
multicast-enabled backbone network comprised of satellites. Intelsat selected
SkyStream's Source and Edge Media Routers (SMRs and EMRs) and zBandT Content
Delivery Platform for the trial because of their easy integration with existing
satellite-based networks and ability to scale for diverse service delivery
needs. The trial is scheduled to begin in April and is expected to last for
three months.
For the purposes of the trial, Intelsat will provide
space segment on the Intelsat 701 satellite, located at 180º E, and the
customer premise equipment for file storage at Asian broadcast receive
stations. BT Broadcast Services is responsible for provisioning and operating
the head-end hub and the uplink teleport from its Media Center in Los
Angeles.
Norsat Completes Largest Shipment of Ka/Ku Band Commercial
ODUs
Norsat International Inc has completed the shipment of
its 1000th Ka/Ku band terminal to EMS Technologies Inc for deployment on
SES-Astra's Broadband Interactive System (BBI).
The
Norsat outdoor units (ODUs) consist of a high bandwidth transceiver, including
a satellite receiver and transmitter, as well as compact consumer 0.76 m or
enterprise 1.2 m antennas. Norsat's ODU is compatible with DVB-RCS open
standards.
Astra's BBI system is the first commercial Ka band two-way
broadband satellite service available across Europe. First commercially
launched in November 2001, the BBI system provides a two-way satellite-based
platform tailored specifically to support broadband Internet access and the
distribution of multimedia-rich files across multiple sites. Customers can
contribute, at rates of up to 2 Mb/s, data files and pre-recorded or live
audio/video direct to satellite via the Ka band (29.5-30.0 GHz) capacity on the
Astra 1H satellite at 19.2° East.
PanAmSat and Embratel to Deliver Services to Remote Areas Of
Brazil
PanAmSat Corporation has announced a sales agreement
between its Brazilian subsidiary, PanAmSat do Brasil Ltda and Empresa
Brasileira de Telecomunicacoes (Embratel), one of Latin America's leading
telecommunications service providers.
PanAmSat is
supplying capacity on its PAS-1R Atlantic Ocean Region satellite to support a
nationwide VSAT network for Embratel. PAS-1R's strong coverage has enabled
Embratel to expand its reach to some of the most distant parts of the
region.
The agreement with Embratel follows the establishment of
PanAmSat's Brazilian subsidiary and the opening of its sales office in Sao
Paulo in late 2001. Kevin Calderone, a telecommunications and satellite
industry executive with in-depth knowledge of the Brazilian market, is heading
up the new office as regional director of sales. PanAmSat also plans to open an
office in Rio de Janeiro later this year.
Mr Calderone will be
responsible for the introduction of PanAmSat's premier satellite services to
broadcast, cable, Internet and telecommunications customers throughout the
Brazilian market. These offerings include the company's global program
distribution, Internet backbone access, business communications and data
services as well as special event and ad hoc services.
Mr Calderone
comes to PanAmSat from Loral Cyberstar, where he was responsible for attracting
new customers for high-capacity Internet services as well as the sale of VSAT
hardware and associated equipment. Prior to joining Loral, Mr Calderone was
regional manager for Timeplex, a leading manufacturer of electronic equipment.
He began his career at Tekelec, where he served as regional sales manager for
the Latin America, Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions. Mr Calderone was also
a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy.
In July 2001, ANATEL, the
government agency that regulates all telecommunications services in Brazil,
authorised the company's PAS-1R Atlantic Ocean Region satellite to deliver
services throughout the country. The authorisation provided PanAmSat with
direct access to Latin America's leading economy for these services.
The PAS-1R authorisation permits PanAmSat to offer value-added services
throughout Brazil, including the company's global program distribution,
Internet backbone connectivity, business communications, data transmission and
webcasting services as well as special event and ad hoc services. PAS-1R,
launched in November 2000, is one of the largest and most powerful satellites
covering Brazil.
Harris Corporation Receives Antenna Contract Option for
Additional Wideband Gapfiller Satellites
Harris Corporation has been
awarded a contract option by Boeing Satellite Systems (BSS) to secure long-lead
materials for the Ka band spot antennas on US Department of Defense (DoD)
Wideband Gapfiller Satellites (WGS). The WGS program will provide a
high-capacity satellite system, jointly funded by the US Air Force and the US
Army, to support the warfighter with newer and far greater wideband
communications capabilities than those provided by current systems.
Under terms of the contract option, which adds to the
deliveries for the first and second satellites, Harris will prepare to deliver
a set of Ka band antennas for the third WGS satellite. The antennas will be
delivered to BSS in El Segundo, California, for integration onto the satellite.
The 10 steerable, solid graphite offset antennas on each satellite provide the
critical communications link to user terminals, enabling WGS satellites to
securely transmit and receive digital-quality voice, data and imagery. The WGS
Ka band antennas will be ready to integrate onto the Boeing 702 satellite bus,
providing a relatively simple plug-and-play interface.
In a separate
contract action in January 2001, Boeing awarded Harris a US$ 300,000 contract
to begin engineering and technical support work to ensure that existing ground
terminals will be compatible with new WGS satellite communications payloads.
The value of the ground segment work for Harris could increase to US$ 7 million
over the next five years if options for up to six WGS satellites are exercised,
bringing the potential overall value of WGS system-related contracts for Harris
to US$ 37 million by 2006.
The WGS program will augment DoD
communications services currently provided by the Defense Satellite
Communications System (DSCS), which provides super high frequency (SHF)
wideband communications, and the Global Broadcast Service (GBS), which uses
direct broadcast satellite technology to provide critical information to US
military and allied forces. With an initial launch in early 2004, WGS will
serve as a bridge to the Advanced Wideband Satellite system, a high-capacity
tactical communications system currently planned for the 2009
timeframe.
Signal Corporation Awarded US Army Satcoms Support Order
Signal
Corporation has been awarded a new task order totalling over US$ 1.1 million to
continue their work in support of the Defense Satellite Communications System
(DSCS). This work includes engineering design review, onsite installation and
integration of satellite systems.
As a prime contractor
for the US Army Information Systems Engineering Command's (USAISEC) Total
Engineering and Integration Service (TEIS) contract, Signal has been providing
engineering, installation and integration support to the Transmission Systems
Directorate since April 2000. This award is a one-year follow-on to Signal's
previous DSCS task orders which have spanned two years. The TEIS contract,
valued at US$ 298 million, covers a wide range of services including
information systems engineering, systems analysis, information assurance, and
test and evaluation work at US Army sites across the country.
MDA Awarded Cdn$ 18 Million for Future Support Of
Space Station Robotics
The Canadian Space Agency is awarding an Cdn$ 18
million instalment on two existing contracts with MDRobotics, a subsidiary of
MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates Ltd.
These
instalments will help extend logistical support and engineering services being
provided to sustain the Mobile Servicing System (MSS), Canada's contribution to
the International Space Station. In addition, flight operations activities
currently being provided by MD Robotics personnel, on-site at the Canadian
Space Agency, are also being extended to March 2003.
The Mobile
Servicing System is a sophisticated robotic system critical to the assembly,
maintenance and servicing of the Space Station during its 15-20 year life
expectancy. The MSS includes Canadarm2 launched in 2001, the Mobile Base System
scheduled for launch this spring, and a highly evolved two-armed robot known as
the Special Purpose Dexterous Manipulator. This system represents some of the
most advanced robotics in the world.
Funding for this project was
provided for in the February 2002 Government budget and is therefore built into
the existing financial framework.
MicroSat Systems Awards Contract to Raytheon
MicroSat Systems Inc (MSI) has announced a US$ 16.4M
contract with Raytheon Company Electronics Systems to provide the Synthetic
Aperture Radar (SAR) payload for the Technology Satellite of the 21st Century
(TechSat 21).
MSI, the prime integrator of TechSat 21,
along with the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), have created a national
program team that includes Raytheon, Global Solar Energy, Broad Reach
Engineering, Advanced Solutions Inc, Lockheed Martin, TRW, ITT and General
Dynamics Advanced Information Systems.
The AFRL Space Vehicles
Directorate, and the US Air Force Office of Scientific Research, announced
plans for a revolutionary system of formation-flying satellites that quickly
adapt to rapidly changing mission requirements. TechSat 21 envisions
collaborative clusters of interdependent micro-satellites, each weighing
approximately 150 kg and flying in close, bird-like formations. The clusters
eventually will circle the earth and replace many of today's single, larger
satellites.
Three micro-satellites are planned for launch in 2005 on a
Boeing Delta IV medium-class Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV). The
satellites will operate as a close-proximity cluster with the Raytheon radars
synchronised in time and position, creating a virtual satellite providing much
greater capability than radar on a single satellite. Other technology
applications include global positioning, mapping of the earth's surface and
communications.
Aerojet Validates Tri-Fluid Injector for Air Force Advanced
Reusable Rocket Engine
Aerojet has successfully validated its design of a
revolutionary tri-fluid propellant injector for non-toxic hydrogen peroxide
engines. The injector is a component of the Advanced Reusable Rocket Engine
that Aerojet is developing for the Air Force's Space Maneuver Vehicle.
The hot fire testing in February and March demonstrated the
injector's performance capabilities including its reliable ignition and its
stability even at twice the normal throttling range. Tests were conducted on a
sub-scale version of the injector using two different injector patterns. Both
performed successfully, and one will be chosen for the full-scale tri-fluid
injector. Test results indicate that acceptable performance was achieved for
both element types. Also, the injector element chug threshold was much lower
than anticipated and will serve to provide additional throttling capability
well beyond what is required.
What makes the tri-fluid injector unique
is that decomposed peroxide, used to drive the turbopump, is exhausted into the
tri-fluid injector to ignite the engine's hydrogen peroxide and jet fuel
propellants. This creates a closed- cycle engine system that does not dump
propellants overboard like a typical gas generator cycle engine. The result is
higher performance and a wider range of throttleability.
Detailed
design of the full-scale tri-fluid injector is nearing completion. Hot fire
tests are planned for late summer 2002. Aerojet is conducting all injector
tests in its new, state-of-the-art peroxide engine test facility, which was
built for hands-on development of rocket engines containing environmentally
friendly hydrogen peroxide propellants.
Aerojet's Advanced Reusable
Rocket Engine is a non-toxic, hydrogen peroxide engine that utilises advanced
injection concepts, fabrication processes and chamber materials. The Air
Force's Space Maneuver Vehicle is an unmanned space vehicle envisioned as a
reusable satellite bus. The ARRE also has applications on the Space Launch
Initiative, NASA's effort to develop technologies for a second-generation
reusable launch vehicle.
Boeing Announces Delta IV Heavy Launch Assignment
Boeing
has received authority from the US Air Force to proceed with launch service
plans for a National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) mission aboard a Boeing Delta
IV Heavy launch vehicle.
The launch is targeted for 2004
from Space Launch Complex 37, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida.
Details of the mission were not released, but Boeing officials confirmed
the launch is part of the Air Force's Evolved Expendable Launch Vehicle (EELV)
program. Boeing was awarded 22 of the 29 launches under the program.
Two additional Delta IV Heavy launches, currently manifested for 2003, include
a demonstration for the Air Force and an Air Force Defense Support Program
mission.
The Boeing Delta IV Heavy is the largest of the Delta family
of launch vehicles and can lift up to 13,130 kilograms to geosynchronous
transfer orbit. It is designed with three common booster cores (CBCs) joined
together. A five-meter upper stage sits on top of the core CBC with the
capability of carrying either single or multiple payloads. Each CBC is powered
by a Boeing-built RS-68 main engine, designed and built by the company's
Rocketdyne Propulsion and Power (RPP) business. The RS-68 is the first, new
large rocket engine designed and built in the United States since the space
shuttle main engine, which is also built by Boeing RPP.
Praxair Signs Contract for Rocket Launch Propellants
Praxair
Inc has signed a long-term, US$ 35-million agreement with The Boeing Company
for the supply of liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen launch propellants for the
new RS-68 rocket engine-powered Delta IV launch vehicle.
This long-term contract is the first of its kind for the United States
propellants industry. Previously, all liquid oxygen/hydrogen propellants for
launches from the United States were procured through the US Government.
Praxair has been a leading supplier to the US aerospace industry for more
than 30 years. Since the early 1960s, Praxair's air separation plant in Mims,
Florida has supplied the liquid oxygen and liquid nitrogen needed to prepare
and launch bi-propellant vehicles at Kennedy Space Center and Cape Canaveral
Air Force Station. Praxair's Wilmington and Ontario plants in California have
supplied liquid oxygen, liquid nitrogen and liquid hydrogen to support
development, test and launch activities at Edwards Air Force Base and
Vandenberg Air Force Base. Praxair's Theodore and McIntosh, Alabama, plants
supply the majority of cryogenic propellants consumed today for engine and
component testing at NASA's Stennis Space Center.
Shuttle Atlantis Flies with Three New P&W Fuel Turbopumps
Pratt
& Whitney (P&W) Space Propulsion has achieved a significant milestone
with the launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis (STS-110) from Kennedy Space Center.
This launch marks the beginning of Shuttle flight with the new P&W fuel
(hydrogen) high-pressure turbopump installed on each of the three Space Shuttle
Main Engines (SSME) as key components of the upgraded Block II engine
design.
P&W's turbopumps, featuring fewer welds, a
stronger integral shaft/disk and more robust bearings, provide improved safety
margins and life expectancy, which extends the number of Shuttle flights
allowed between major overhauls. In addition to the high-pressure fuel and LOX
turbopump on each SSME, P&W provides 16 booster separation motors for each
Shuttle launch.
Last July, a single P&W fuel turbopump flew
successfully on Shuttle Atlantis (STS-104) in the debut of the Block II SSME. A
second Block II SSME with P&W's fuel turbopump was flown on Shuttle
Endeavour (STS-108) last December.
P&W will provide overhaul and
refurbishment (O&R) for its LOX and fuel turbopump at each overhaul
interval (approximately 10 missions). After refurbishment, each turbopump will
be returned to Shuttle service for an additional 10 missions. A minimum service
life of 3 overhaul intervals, or 30 missions, is anticipated for each
turbopump. P&W's turbopump O&R activity will continue throughout the
Space Shuttle's operational life, which is currently expected to extend beyond
2012.
The new fuel turbopump is produced by P&W at its West Palm
Beach, Florida facility and is tested at NASA's Stennis Space Center in
Mississippi. The SSME Program is managed by NASA's Space Shuttle Projects
Office located at Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville,
Alabama.
STS 110 - ITS S0 Truss and Mobile Transporter
Launched: 8
April 2002
Site: Kennedy Space Center, Florida
Launcher: Shuttle
Atlantis (STS-110)
Orbit: LEO, apogee: 226 km, perigee: 226 km:
inclination: 51.6°
International Number: 2002-018A
Name: ISS 8A
(Integrated Truss Structure SO)
Owner: NASA
Contractor: Boeing
The STS-110 mission resumes ISS construction operations with the delivery of
the first segment of the Integrated Truss Structure that will support solar
panels providing additional power to the ISS. The STS-110 crew will also
install the first part of a Mobile Transporter that will provide a moveable
base for the station's Canadian robotic arm.
The S0 is one of five
truss segments that will eventually span more than 300 feet to carry power,
data and environmental services throughout the space station.
Crew:
Commander: Michael Bloomfield
Pilot: Stephen Frick
Mission Specialist: Rex Walheim
Mission Specialist: Ellen Ochoa
Mission
Specialist: Lee Morin
Mission Specialist: Jerry Ross
Mission
Specialist: Steven Smith
Alcatel Space and Gilat Announce Strategic Broadband
Partnership
Alcatel Space and Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd have
reached an agreement in principle to form a strategic partnership that will
focus on significant enhancements to and further development of the Gilat 360
broadband satellite platform. The companies will also co-operate on marketing
satellite broadband residential products and solutions to telecommunications
operators (telcos) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) world-wide.
This agreement is part of Alcatel and Gilat's overall
commitment to their joint venture with SES Global, to provide two-way broadband
services.
Alcatel Space and Gilat's agreement has the following
objectives:
The companies' agreement
also gives Alcatel certain exclusive rights to market the residential 360
platform to telcos and ISPs through its world-wide sales and marketing
organisation. Alcatel and Gilat intend to continue to promote their respective
solutions for enterprises, based on DVB-RCS for Alcatel and Skystar Advantage
for Gilat.
A definitive agreement is expected during the coming
weeks.
Barutiwa Reinvents Itself
Barutiwa Communication Media
Link Corp, an African-American owned publicly traded entity, has completed the
revision of its business plan. The revised business plan calls for Barutiwa to
reinvent itself as a pure holding company. Barutiwa will operate six majority
owned subsidiaries in the fields of publishing, new media and high technology.
Furthermore, Barutiwa is currently accumulating minority stakes in more than
1000 publicly traded companies competing in new media and futuristic industries
such as space tourism and space burial.
Barutiwa's
business plan calls for the creation of non-commercial web sites to provide
various ethnic groups and political organisations an elaborate vehicle to
genuinely champion their voice. Once these particular web sites are developed
with more than 20,000 members, the respective web sites (or Internet Assets)
will be sold to interested parties for prices ranging from US$ 3,000 to US$
30,000. Each Internet Asset developed will be incorporated and assigned
different management.
California Amplifier Acquires Kaul-Tronics
Business
California Amplifier Inc has acquired the satellite
antenna business of Kaul-Tronics Inc and two affiliated companies
(collectively, "KTI"), in a stock and cash transaction.
The transaction, which is valued at approximately US$ 22 million, consists of
the acquisition of substantially all of the assets, including inventory,
equipment, real estate and intellectual property and the assumption of certain
liabilities of KTI. In 2001, KTI had revenues of approximately US$ 36 million,
pretax income of approximately US$ 4.8 million and EBITDA of approximately US$
5.8 million. KTI's 2001 revenues included approximately US$ 12 million in
satellite LNBF products of the type produced by California Amplifier.
KTI is one of North America's leading manufacturers of DBS satellite dishes and
also manufactures several larger offset antennas, including elliptical antennas
for multi-satellite reception and offset antennas for international and
commercial markets. In addition, KTI offers a complete line of satellite
installation accessories.
Under the terms of the purchase agreement,
California Amplifier paid approximately US$ 22 million, comprised of US$ 5
million in common stock (929,086 shares based on the 30-day average closing
price through April 3, 2002) and US$ 17 million cash. Of the cash portion, US$
12 million has been provided under an interim increase in the Company's
revolving line of credit. It is expected that the Company's borrowing facility
will shortly be restructured into an approximately US$ 29.3 million secured
credit facility, including a US$ 13 million revolving facility, and a US$ 16.3
million term loan facility.
California Amplifier will continue to
operate KTI's present facilities in Wisconsin and will assume management
control of all operations effective immediately.
The Company currently
estimates fiscal 2003 first quarter revenues in the range of US$ 20 to US$ 25
million and earnings in the range of US$ 0.04-US$ 0.07 per diluted share after
giving effect to the KTI acquisition.
Eutelsat Increases Investment in Hispasat
Eutelsat's stake in Hispasat has increased to 27.69%
from 21.15%. Eutelsat signed an agreement with Hispasat in August 2001 to enter
into the capital of the company with the potential to enlarge its investment.
The increased stake takes Eutelsat's representation on Hispasat's Board of
Shareholders from two to three seats.
Operating Spain's
regional satellite system that provides services to the Iberian peninsula and
Latin America, Hispasat shareholders include Auna, BBVA, Admira (a Telefonica
subsidiary) and EADS-CASA. The company manages three Hispasat satellites with a
fourth due for launch in 2002. Its capacity is used for consumer television
broadcasting, telecommunications networks, high-speed Internet connections and
multicasting.
Mentergy to Spin-Off Satellite-Based Communications Services
Business
Training and learning solutions provider Mentergy Ltd
has signed a binding share purchase agreement for the sale of two wholly owned
subsidiaries, Gilat Satcom Ltd, and Israsat International Communications Ltd,
which comprise its satellite-based communications services business (together
"Gilat Satcom").
Under the share purchase agreement, the
shares of Gilat Satcom would be purchased by Lito Ofsset "Ziv" Ltd., an Israeli
company (Ziv), in exchange for the issuance to Mentergy of new shares of Ziv,
such that following completion of the transaction Mentergy is expected to hold
70% of the outstanding ordinary shares of Ziv on a fully diluted basis.
The consummation of the transaction is contingent, among other things,
upon the approval of the transaction by Mentergy's bank creditors, regulatory
authorities in Israel, and Ziv's shareholders. The transaction is also
contingent upon the successful re-listing of Ziv's shares on the Tel-Aviv Stock
Exchange where it was previously listed.
Gilat Satcom and Israsat
Communications (together "Gilat Satcom") was established approximately 10 years
ago, and today it is a leading provider of satellite based communication
services in Israel. Gilat Satcom offers its customers private networks
communication services in Israel, international communication services and
Internet access services to companies and organisations world-wide, based on
satellite technologies. Today, Gilat Satcom maintains approximately 2,500 sites
in private communication networks for leading organisations in Israel,
including among others health services organisations, National Sports betting
and Lottery, universities, financial institutes and government institutions.
Gilat Satcom also operates international communication services, point to point
satellite links and Internet backbone connectivity over satellite for
information carriers, financial institutes and more, as well as satellite
infrastructure for the e-Learning industry.
New Broadband Joint Venture in Europe
SES
Global, Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd as well as the Alcatel Space and
SkyBridge, subsidiaries of Alcatel, today announced the formation of a new
company that will provide two-way satellite broadband communications services
to enterprises, consumers and small office/home office (SOHO) users throughout
Europe.
The value of the company exceeds EUR 200 million
and includes cash of more than EUR 50 million with additional contributions
from each of the partners. Such contributions include existing facilities,
satellite transponders, hubs, terminals, other technology and technical as well
as marketing assistance.
In the enterprise market and for some small
and medium size enterprises (SMEs), the venture will offer complete satellite
communications services. These services will be provided both directly by the
new company and through wholesalers and will utilise Gilat's Skystar Advantage
VSAT product, as well as SES Astra's Broadband Interactive System (BBI), which
is based on the DVB-RCS standard.
In the consumer and SOHO markets,
and for some SMEs, the company will provide broadband communication services
via Gilat's 360 VSAT satellite modem at speeds up to 20 times higher than
dial-up modems. In these markets, the company will serve as a wholesale
provider of broadband services - such as hub operations, space segment,
second-level help desk, maintenance and engineering support - to telcos,
Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and direct-to-home television (DTH TV)
providers. DTH TV providers can use the company to combine their services with
broadband Internet on a single dish.
SES Global and Gilat have
executed definitive agreements whereby they will serve as equal shareholders
(50/50 initially) in the new company, which will be headquartered in
Luxembourg. SES Global and SES Astra will provide space segment over Europe and
contribute hub and terminals, which constitute part of its innovative BBI
system, as well as cash. Gilat will enter into a supply agreement for its
Skystar Advantage and 360 VSAT products and make available its satellite hub
equipment, its service licenses and rights, and its existing wholesale
contracts with broadband service providers. The German cartel authority has
cleared the joint venture between SES Global and Gilat on April 4, 2002.
Alcatel Space and SkyBridge have executed an agreement in principle with
the new company in connection with a potential investment, which is subject to
signature of definitive agreement and regulatory approval. Alcatel will make
technical and marketing contributions as well as a cash investment to the new
venture in exchange for a 20% equity stake. As a consequence, SES Global and
Gilat shares will be diluted proportionally. All three partners will contribute
management expertise to the joint venture.
The new company will
acquire 100% of Gilat Europe companies, including the Gilat Satellite Networks
subsidiary based in Backnang, Germany. Gilat Europe has offices and operating
licenses across Europe and has deployed enterprise-wide VSAT networks for
companies such as Peugeot/Citroen, GIS Bank, Esso Deutschland, TOTAL, AGIP, and
GE Capital Bank. Approximately 120 employees - including all of Gilat Europe's
staff, part of SkyBridge's European staff and part of SES Multimedia's staff -
will be transferred to the new entity.
The company's name, its board
of directors and management team will be announced within the coming weeks. The
company's operations will be supported by far-reaching industrial and marketing
agreements between Alcatel and Gilat, as well as between Alcatel and SES
Global.
SES Global and Alcatel Space Announce Broadband Access
Partnership
SES Global and Alcatel Space have announced the formation of
a strategic partnership for the implementation of two-way satellite based
systems using SES' Broadband Interactive System (BBI) technology based on the
DVB-RCS standard and targeting the Enterprise market.
SES pioneered
the open DVB-RCS standard to provide two-way satellite broadband access using
Ku and Ka band frequencies to professional users such as corporations and small
and medium-sized companies (SME). The BBI solution was launched commercially in
November 2001.
Under the strategic partnership, SES Global will
transfer to Alcatel Space the prime responsibility of the BBI technology
development. Alcatel will continue the development of the system and ensure
future supply of gateway and terminal products.
SES Global will
co-operate with Alcatel in the definition of future product enhancements and in
ensuring the broad commercial availability on a global basis of DVB-RCS
products. The strategic partnership aims to further enhance the BBI technology
by:
Inmarsat Announce Availability of the 64kbit/s Mobile Office in
the Sky
Inmarsat Limited has announced the commercial
availability of Swift64, a service which gives aircraft passengers the ability
to access Internet-based applications such as email, video streaming and file
transfer whilst in the air.
Swift64 will give the aero
traveller all the functionality and applications he expects in his office even
crossing the Atlantic at 35,000 ft.
The initial service offering will
provide passengers in the corporate jet market with ISDN speeds of 64 kb/s.
Later this year this will be expanded to include a Mobile Packet Data service
based on IP-protocol, and by the end of the year will be available to the
commercial airline market.
Inmarsat announced that Telenor Satellite
Services of Norway and USA, have been authorised in all four ocean regions for
Swift64 services. Initially the Swift64 compatible avionics are being provided
by Honeywell/Thales, with other manufacturers expected shortly. Since the new
service is compatible with existing Inmarsat Aero H antennas, Aero HSD avionics
will be made available for "stand alone" installation or for upgrades of
existing Aero-H installations. The service also supports secure communications
over a wide range of secure terminals including STU-III, STU-IIB, KIV7, and
STE. This feature makes it especially attractive to government and military
customers needing reliable and secure data and voice communications for
in-flight operations and crew use.
The Inmarsat Swift64 platform will
offer clear cost benefits to aircraft operators by utilising existing aircraft
communications infrastructure to provide fast email and Internet access, video
conferencing facilities and file transfer capability to aircraft
passengers.
Today, up to 80% of modern long haul commercial aircraft
and over 1000 corporate jets already have the Inmarsat satellite communications
antenna infrastructure needed to carry Swift64 services.
The solution
comprising mobile ISDN and mobile packet data services, will utilise elements
of Inmarsat's existing Inmarsat Global Area Network (GAN) platform already
delivering up to 64 kb/s data rates to land-based business world-wide.
Ultimately Swift64 users will benefit from 64 kb /s ISDN speed or packet data
`always on' technology which means that the user is only charged for the data
that they send and receive, not the time they are connected.
Passengers of Swift64 enabled aircraft will be able to access Inmarsat's
services via on-board servers as part of an email or aircraft intranet
solution. An email server will manage passenger capacity assignment and
switching of Satcom, Gatelink and other transmission systems.
Passenger-to-server connection can be delivered by a range or methods including
an Ethernet LAN at data rates up to 100 Mbit/s or future wireless
alternatives.
Irdeto Access Launches Irdeto PIsys, Conditional Access
System
Irdeto Access has announced the release of Irdeto
PIsys, the company's latest DVB conditional-access system for large-scale
satellite DTH, cable, IPTV, and terrestrial broadcasting. Irdeto PIsys
incorporates a wide range of innovative features to provide the highest level
of security, flexibility, and ease of use for all forms of digital pay-media
content.
Irdeto Access is a subsidiary of MIH Limited,
the subscriber platforms and supporting technologies group.
The Irdeto
PIsys system is designed for large-scale installations and enables operators to
secure content and manage entitlements for millions of subscribers. Irdeto
PIsys allows users to configure, maintain, and monitor conditional access to
content easily and quickly with a user-friendly graphical user interface.
The system is compatible with a wide range of set-top boxes, compression
equipment, and subscriber management systems.
With Irdeto PIsys,
subscribers access content with a personalised smart card that validates their
entitlement. Powerful features include blackout control, positive and negative
entitlements, and IRD (set-top box) fingerprinting.
Implemented by
messages played out to the smart card using high-level industry-standard
encryption in combination with Irdeto Access-patented technology, they make
control over subscriber access more precise than ever, reducing the need for
customer service calls and increasing the integrity of pay-media systems.
Even with these features, Irdeto PIsys requires minimal bandwidth for
conditional access control, while allowing conditional access messages to be
cycled at higher rates than in previous-generation systems and thus reducing
overall costs while increasing security.
Designed to allow operators
to configure, maintain, and monitor their systems easily and quickly, enhanced
Irdeto PIsys features include internal diagnostics and on-screen problem
detection, allowing head-end users to view system status with a single glance,
whether using Irdeto PIsys' powerful monitoring tools or SNMP-based monitoring
systems.
Multiple security levels allow operational staff members to
be assigned one of six degrees of access authorisation within the system.
Providing a versatile base for continuous growth, Irdeto PIsys offers
support for IPPV, OPPV, T-Commerce, Code Download, NVOD/VOD, and personal video
recorders (PVRs) via optional modules. Designed for use world-wide, the Irdeto
PIsys subscriber interface and messages can be localised for any environment,
and a single Irdeto PIsys system can be used to support multiple operators on
multiple sectors of a smart card.
When combined with Irdeto
CypherCast, Irdeto PIsys works as a convergent head-end to manage both TV and
Internet content. With a single smart card, subscribers can access all of an
operator's pay-media content packages, including TV channels and Internet
streaming media.
Motorola and N2 Broadband to Maximise Satellite Bandwidth
Motorola Broadband Communications Sector and N2
Broadband have announced an integrated content delivery solution that enables
content providers to maximise existing satellite bandwidth and infrastructure
when delivering 'on-demand' content to broadband network operators.
The solution is an integration of N2 Broadband's MediaPath
digital asset management and delivery solution and Motorola's DigiCipher II
uplink systems and DSR 4500X Integrated Receiver-Decoder (IRD) platform with
built-in IP data port. This solution most directly benefits content providers
deploying these products commercially and rolling out video-on-demand (VOD) or
subscription-based video-on-demand (SVOD).
The N2 Broadband content
delivery solution can be used with existing Motorola DigiCipher II
infrastructure and satellite bandwidth to deliver VOD or SVOD services to
broadband network operators. Prior to this integration, N2 Broadband customers
used bandwidth from an additional transponder or sent a separate "sidecar" to
carry another transport stream. This solution simplifies the process by
multiplexing (combining) the N2 Broadband MediaPath feed with the existing
broadcast feed.
Satellite Tool Kit 4.3 Released
Analytical Graphics Inc (AGI)
has released Satellite Tool Kit (STK) version 4.3. The most adaptable version
of AGI's commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software to date and the first to
include an add-on module dedicated to attitude analysis, STK 4.3 offers
complete situational awareness for design, operations, and analysis of
aerospace and defence systems.
The flexibility of the
new release allows users to configure and extend STK to meet specific needs
through a new geometry tool; "plug-in" points for custom equations; and the
STK/Attitude module.
The STK software suite is customisable in
multiple ways. To help break down complex system dynamics, users can create
custom points, axes, vectors, and co-ordinate systems with STK 4.3's new
geometry tool. User-defined equations can be inserted into key points of STK's
computational architecture to support specific requirements or legacy systems
using MATLAB, Perl, or Visual Basic scripts. Finally, the new STK/Attitude
module provides analysts detailed views of vehicles' complex motions, more
flexible attitude profiles, and a simulator that models and corrects for
disturbances.
Basic STK applications include calculating and
visualising a vehicle's position and attitude, analysing its field of view, and
determining acquisition times. The functionality of STK can be extended with
add-on modules that support specialised tasks including 3-D battlespace
visualisation, communications link analysis, collision avoidance, manoeuvre
planning, real-time data interfacing, high-fidelity missile modelling, GIS
analysis, attitude simulation, orbit determination, and coverage
assessment.
STK Standard is available free of charge to all aerospace
and defence professionals.
SkyStream Unveils EVR-7000 Edge Video Router
SkyStream Networks has unveiled its new Edge Video
Router (EVR-7000), a powerful, enterprise-class appliance that streamlines the
delivery and management of TV video and IP data multicast services in corporate
environments.
SkyStream's EVR-7000 is the industry's
first edge video delivery device that integrates essential capabilities such as
secure content delivery and simultaneous device playback into a single
networking device at a minimal cost. Several leading satellite service
providers have announced their support for the EVR-7000 including Georgia-based
Convergent Media, NetSat Express and Verestar.
The EVR enables the
simultaneous delivery of live and pre-recorded MPEG and IP-based video to be
viewed on TVs and desktops. The EVR also features on-demand streaming of MPEG
video to desktops and data routing capabilities. It is also integrated with
third party web and streaming media cache servers, allowing content to be
pushed directly into these caches. This eliminates long integration tasks and
provides easy access to all types of content by employees. SkyStream's EVR-7000
is appropriate for the reception and delivery of the following video-based
content including:
This high-performance,
all-in-one platform combines the functionalities of Digital Video Broadcasting
(DVB) with the company's zBand Content Delivery technology for fast, efficient
and reliable file transfer, video playout to the TV, and MPEG video delivery
over IP to desktops. As the newest addition to the SkyStream edge product
family, the EVR-7000 also includes E-Manager, a comprehensive set of tools with
a highly intuitive user interface for the deployment and management of
multicast services delivery.
The EVR will be available directly from
SkyStream Networks and authorised resellers in June 2002.
Tachyon Launches Transportable Broadband Network Access
Tachyon
Inc has introduced Mobile Network Access, the first cost-effective Internet or
enterprise network connectivity service for organisations that need
transportable broadband network access. It is ideal for corporations,
government agencies and institutions requiring high-speed public or private
network access for special events, construction sites, emergency response or
other short-term or remote location applications.
Featuring a modular satellite dish and compact carrying cases that make it
transportable to any location, Mobile Network Access represents an entirely new
category of product, with pricing far below alternative solutions that can cost
thousands of dollars per hour. Tachyon's service prices range from US$ 600 to
US$ 2,000 per month for T-1 service, depending on the number of days that the
unit is deployed.
Tachyon's patented signal processing technology
offers the fastest transmission speeds available compared to other wireless or
satellite alternatives, with data rates of up to 2Mb/s. While service for
Mobile Network Access is currently only available in the US, the company's
satellite capacity covers all of North America, Europe, parts of Northern
Africa and the Middle East. Plans for global expansion of the Mobile Network
Access service are now underway.
Mobile Network Access combines
Tachyon's broadband satellite service with its new Quick Deploy Customer
Premise Equipment (CPE), which can be assembled to begin delivering high-speed
access in approximately 30 minutes. Quick Deploy CPE is TCP/IP
standards-compliant and allows easy integration with an organisation's existing
enterprise.
The CPE includes the Tachyon network router; a ruggedised
satellite dish (1.2 m diameter, assembled), a radio for transmitting and
receiving data via satellite, shipping cases, and associated cables and
accessories.
Virtual Private Network (VPN) Accelerator hardware is
also available as an option. Tachyon's VPN Accelerator enables
industry-standard IPSec encryption protocols for companies needing the highest
levels of security, delivering end-to-end encryption with all the performance
of terrestrial lines.
Telenor Satellite Services to Launch Global Maritime
Communications Service
Telenor Satellite Services, the first Land Earth
Station Operator (LESO) within the Inmarsat system to receive formal approval
from Inmarsat for commercial operation of the new maritime service Fleet, has
announced that the service is now available to customers globally.
Telenor's Fleet service offers the maritime community the
most advanced mobile satellite communications technology available for
high-speed commercial communications and enhanced safety at sea.
Available today to all ocean regions through Telenor's Eik Land Earth Station
in Norway and its Santa Paula, California, facility in the United States,
Telenor's Fleet service via Inmarsat delivers a wide range of commercial
communications needs for voice, fax and data services at speeds of up to 64
kb/s, including the rapid mobile Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and
the new, resource-efficient Mobile Packet Data Service.
The service
available today, "Fleet F77", is targeted primarily for ocean-going vessels
such as tankers, container ships, fishing vessels, and large yachts, using
equipment smaller than the current Inmarsat-B antenna. Fleet's ISDN service
provides broadcast quality audio and video enabling video conferencing,
e-commerce, high volume data transfer, distance learning, and remote
performance monitoring.
The new service also offers the flexibility of
Mobile Packet Data Service, providing maritime customers the benefit of paying
only for data they transmit and receive instead of paying for the time they are
connected to the satellite. This feature is particularly valuable for mariners
using global Internet applications including Web access, file transfer and
e-mail.
Fleet's packet data technology enables users to share
satellite resources. This increases efficiency and reduces costs.
Fleet also brings a new dimension of safety to maritime communications. Fleet
meets the International Maritime Organisation's criteria for global maritime
distress and safety system (GMDSS) by providing pre-emption and voice
prioritisation for five levels of priorities; distress, urgency, safety, and
routine (personal and business) communications.
Wegener Introduces Compel Customer Web Access
Wegener
Corporation has announced Compel Customer Web Access, a web based satellite
network control solution tailored to the non-technical user.
Compel Customer Web Access is also available with integrated
Mediaplan. Mediaplan enables network operators to create original content right
from their desktop, transmit the data via satellite in the most cost-effective
method, store it locally, and deliver the content to the right audience at the
right time.
Compel Customer Web Access is available for immediate
shipment.
Wegener's Unity200 for Digital Audio Distribution
Wegener
Corporation has announced the Unity200, a cost effective DVB digital audio
satellite receiver for private audio and radio networks. The Unity200 also
features an optional audio storage card for localised ad insertion.
The Unity200 rounds out Wegener's Unity family of DVB
products, adding a cost effective MCPC audio receiver to the line. The Unity
product line includes digital solutions for the distribution of video, audio,
and IP data.
The Unity200 is now shipping.
Fantastic Announces Management Changes
The
Fantastic Corporation has appointed Alain D Bandle as Chief Executive Officer,
responsible for all operations as of April 11, 2002. Bandle will report to Reto
Braun, who has also held the position of CEO to date and will stay with
Fantastic and take on the full time position of Executive Chairman of the Board
of Directors.
Bandle brings to the company extensive
experience in sales, marketing and general management. His career includes
international management positions in the IT, telecommunications, service and
consumer goods industries. During more than ten years of employment at
Hewlett-Packard, he held positions with increasing marketing and sales
responsibilities.
At the German group VEBA AG, Bandle chaired the
supervisory boards of the group's Düsseldorf-based telecommunications
businesses VEBA Telecom, E-Plus Mobilfunk, and o-tel-o. He successfully built,
restructured and divested a number of divisions before VEBA merged with VIAG to
become E.ON.
Bandle currently serves on the Supervisory Board and the
strategic committee of the Austrian Airlines Group and on the Supervisory Board
of Yellowworld, a company of the Swiss Post.
The Fantastic Corporation
has also announced the appointment of Chris Wallace as VP of Marketing and
Sales Support. Chris Wallace joined Fantastic from Digital Pipe Corporation
where he held the position of CEO. He joined the Company in January this year,
after Fantastic licensed the CoreCast technology from Digital Pipe. His new
responsibilities are added to managing the implementation of the
OmniCast/CoreCast product integration.
Richardson Electronics Expands Satellite Staffing
Richardson Electronics has hired Pat Piper as a
product engineer manager for Richardson's subsidiary Broadcast Richardson.
Pat Piper brings 20 years of satellite engineering expertise
to Richardson over. He previously held the position of satellite systems
product line manager for Harris Corp with responsibility for overseeing mobile
ENG, SNG, production systems, fixed earth stations and VSAT networks. Most
recently, Piper served as ETM's satcom North American sales manager and
broadcast account manager for MCL Inc.
Among his responsibilities,
Piper will be working with antenna designs from Swe-Dish, including flyaway and
driveaway applications, and their IPT (Internet Protocol Terminal) satellite
terminal in a suitcase.
