Rainbow DBS, the satellite service division of Cablevision Systems, is getting ready to launch an array of high-definition television (HDTV) programming to customers across the continental U.S. The new "VOOM" satellite service will eventually carry as many as 39 HDTV channels, as well as 88 channels in standard-definition format. VOOM will initially broadcast in MPEG-2, with an upgrade to MPEG-4 currently expected for the third quarter of 2004. Using MPEG-4, Rainbow DBS will be able to broadcast more than 200 channels, including at least 39 HDTV services. Rainbow DBS will also provide local digital over-the-air programming. Hardware for the VOOM service will include a satellite dish and a specially designed set-top receiver manufactured by Motorola, as well as a digital antenna for local broadcast signals. The Motorola set-top is upgradeable to MPEG-4. To date, rival U.S. satellite and cable services have offered no more than seven syndicated HDTV channels. The consumer launch is scheduled for 15-October-2003.
http://www.cablevision.com
- Cablevision's Rainbow DBS division is headed by Mickey Alpert, who has provided consulting services in the communications and entertainment industries since 1986. The Rainbow DBS senior management team also includes Bill Casamo, executive vice president, marketing and sales, who held a similar position at DIRECTV and also was vice president, sales for the Americas, for Thomson Consumer Electronics.
