Eutelsat board gives IP satellites a go

PARIS -- Eutelsat's board of signatories, meeting in Paris from December 12 to 15, has given the go-ahead to finalize negotiations for the fast delivery of satellite optimized for IP access networks with satellite return link capabilities.

The Board also signalled its commitment to securing Eutelsat's leading market position for consumer television broadcasting by approving the release of an RFP for two new Hot Bird satellites.

The decision to proceed with rapid procurement of an Internet-optimized satellite underscores Eutelsat's strategy to develop a full range of broadband access solutions.

The creation of the multimedia program in the second quarter of 2000 has enabled energies to be harnessed for new products and services in the broadband market.

As a result, capacity used for communications that include Internet backbone and one and two-way high-speed Internet access solutions has jumped in eight months to more than 40 percent from 25 percent.

Called e-BIRD and to be positioned at 25.5 degrees east, the new satellite will introduce capacity into the market that is optimized for carrying IP access networks with satellite return link capabilities.

A total of 20 transponders operational simultaneously, 16 with 36 MHz for the forward link and four with 108 MHz for the return link, will be fully optimized to accommodate the asymmetric nature of Internet access. Coverage of the European region will be provided by multiple spotbeams that will be accessible with small transmit terminals.

At 13 degrees East, Eutelsat's prime position for consumer cable and satellite television broadcasting, Hot Birds 8 and 9 will complete the replacement of existing Hot Bird capacity. With these two satellites, a combined capacity of close to 100 transponders will strengthen Eutelsat's in-orbit sparing strategy and reinforce its offer in both the Ku-band and the Ka-band. Additional features will include multiple service areas and on-board processing.