SISLink, Intelsat form alliance to offer HD-ready SNG

Intelsat and SISLink have formed a strategic alliance to launch an HD-ready automated video delivery service for satellite newsgathering (SNG) users in the United States.

The companies will offer Intelsat uPod, an integrated broadcasting solution that lets U.S. SNG operators execute real-time broadcasting services. The new service will blend Intelsat’s space and ground infrastructure with SISLink’s uPod system to support Web-based scheduling and transmission of live SD and HD video, as well as voice and Internet communications, between wherever news or sports events are unfolding throughout the continental United States.

SISLink’s uPod automated SNG uplink system has offered European broadcasters simple HD compatibility and reliability. Removing the need for a skilled uplink engineer, uPod allows broadcasters to employ a one-person SNG operation. As part of this agreement, SISLink developed a new, smaller version of the uPod, the uPod Micro, which is small enough to be mounted onto any vehicle.

The new service is scheduled to be launched in April 2008.

For more information, visit www.intelsat.com.