|
-- Satellite Radio History --
Early History
Satellite radio in the United States was born in 1992 when the U.S.
Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allocated a frequency spectrum in the "S" band
(2.3 GHz) designated for nationwide broadcasting of a satellite-based Digital Audio Radio Service (SDARS).
2 U.S. companies, CD Radio Inc.(Now known as Sirius Satellite Radio) and American Mobile Radio Inc.(Now known as XM Satellite Radio) stepped up and applied for FCC licence's for digital satellite radio initiatives. In 1997, the FCC granted licence's to both companies. American Mobile Radio Inc. was renamed XM Satellite Radio in late 1998. CD Radio Inc. officially renamed to Sirius Satellite Radio in 1999. Both services were originally slated for a mid 2000 launch of services, however this was postponed due to satellite launch delays. Despite the fact that Sirius Radio had successfully launched its 3 satellites in 2000, XM Satellite Radio was first out of the gate, launching its first satellite on March 18, 2001, followed by its second satellite on May 8, 2001, which allowed them to launch their service on November 12, 2001, becoming America's first digital satellite radio broadcaster. Sirius Radio followed nearly 9 months later, launching its service on July 1. 2002. The 9 month head start that XM Radio had on its competitor proved formidable as Sirius Radio's subscriber numbers continue to trail XM Radio's by a large margin to this day.
 |
Satellite radio services use a number of powerful, orbiting satellites to transmit their digital signals to their subscribers.
|
Satellite Technology
Both XM Radio and Sirius Radio utilize high powered satellites to broadcast their programming to their subscribers. This allows customers to receive their programming on a very small and discrete satellite antenna, approximately the same size as a GPS antenna. Also similar to GPS technology, the satellite radio antennas automatically track the satellite as the vehicle is moving. XM Radio utilize 2 active satellites in geo-synchronous orbit 22 300 miles above the Earth. Sirius Radio use 3 satellites in a much lower, inclined orbit.
 |
Slim profile satellite radio antenna from Sirius for vehicle applications.
|
Reception Technology
In 1998, shortly after their licence's were approved, the satellite radio reception equipment was envisioned to be a small authorization module that would connect to a subscribers existing radio via the cassette or CD slot. However by launch time, the equipment had come a long way and major after market radio manufacturers had produced satellite radio capable receivers in addition to add-on modulated satellite radio units.
Each satellite radio service uses its own proprietary equipment and technology to broadcast its signal to its subscribers. Because of this, you must choose your preferred choice and purchase receiving equipment designed to receive the particular service. Both XM Radio and Sirius Radio offer several different ways of receiving their service. They have signed agreements with many of the major vehicle manufacturers, allowing a option for a factory installed satellite radio receiver. They have also licensed many major audio equipment manufacturers that offer "satellite ready" head units and matching satellite radio transceivers. Finally, they also have portable vehicle options and most recently, personal receivers that are as portable as a discman or MP3 player. Additionally, both services have announced that they are exploring the option of a limited video delivery service as well in the future, which would allow a few video channels, such as a news channel or kids channel for travelers.
 |
The benefits of satellite radio are very numerous. The satellite radio service is nation-wide, unlike all other traditional terrestrial radio broadcasters who have a limited range and market. This allows a subscriber to listen to one digital radio channel from coast to coast.
|
Benefits
The service is also all digital, eliminating the traditional cracking AM and hissing shorter range FM broadcasts. The digital satellite radio broadcasts also allow a much richer and robust sound quality that is not available from analog radio stations. Additionally, many areas of the U.S. have limited or no access to local radio stations. With Satellite delivery, as long as you are physically able to pick up the satellites line of sight, you will be able to receive their programming services.
Reception of satellite radio services is dependant on having a clear line of sight to the orbiting satellites. At times, especially in moving vehicles, there are barriers that may block out the satellite signal, such as tall buildings, tunnels, and other man-made objects. Because of this, both XM Radio and Sirius have located land based repeaters in most major cities to help reduce the satellite "dead spots".The nature of satellite delivery means that there is a four second delay for the signal as well as it must be broadcast up to 22 300 miles into space to the orbiting satellite and rebroadcast back down to Earth. The effect of this delay in most circumstances is minimal, however from time to time, you may notice a short loss of signal as you temporarily lose sight of the orbiting satellite.
Unlike traditional radio, which is supported by advertisers, most satellite radio companies offer very few, if any commercials, meaning that they must charge a subscription fee for their service. This can vary from service to service, but the average is approximately $12-$13 per month.
|
08/04/2008 11:20 AM
In order to give the website a better focus, we are phasing out the less popular areas of the site, including the high definition and digital video recorder areas and forums. This will leave the site focused on digital satellite television and satellite radio.
|
|
|
