Satellite Communications Pocket Book

Every facet of satellite technology is included in this concise reference guide to a fast developing field. The latest systems are included and the coverage is worldwide. Supplemented with tables, formulae and footprints for satellites, this pocket book is the first place for communications engineers, students, satellite industry personnel and enthusiasts to look for essential data.DBS and other enabling technologies for HDTV are covered, in this wide-ranging review of technologies used in Europe, America, the Middle East and Asia. Drawing on James Wood's extensive experience as an engineer in the international broadcasting industry and a technical broadcast journalist, this book will provide the essential details of satellite communications.

CONTENTS INCLUDE: Introduction; Historical overview; The satellite age; Growth in satellite communication systems; Launching into space: a risk industry; Elements of satellite communication systems; Television transmission systems; High-definition television systems (HDTV); Direct broadcasting by satellite (DBS); Multiplexed analogue component systems (MAC), Encryption; Propagation of satellite signals; Domestic receiving systems for DBS; Satellite television as a mass medium; Astra, Eutelsat and CNN; VSATs and Earth terminals; International maritime satellite services (Inmarsat); Emergent technologies; Conclusions; Abbreviations; Glossary; References; Bibliography; Index