Satellite operator Intelsat and European uplink-services supplier SISLink are targeting the U.S. satellite-newsgathering (SNG) market with Intelsat uPod, a new HD-ready automated video-delivery service that doesn’t required a trained uplink engineer to operate.
Under a strategic alliance, the companies will provide a fully integrated broadcasting solution that combines Intelsat’s space and ground infrastructure with SISLink’s uPod system to support Web-based scheduling and transmission of live standard-definition and HD video, as well as voice and Internet communications.
SISLink’s uPOD uplink system -- which has found favor with European broadcasters like Sky Italia -- is designed to facilitate a true one-person SNG operation. As part of the deal with Intelsat, SISLink developed a new, smaller version of the uPod, the uPod Micro, which is small enough to be mounted onto any vehicle.
Latest Videos FromBroadcasting+Cable
The new service is scheduled to launch in April, initially targeting customers that lease full-time space segment capacity for SNG use. A version of the service targeting occasional-use customers is planned for later this year.
