WHAT IS SATELLITE BROADCASTING?
Satellite broadcasting is the means of transmitting media content (audio, and video) across countries and continents. Broadcast signals are uploaded to the communication satellite and redistributed through a transponder back to Earth for viewers using a parabolic antennae, popularly known as a satellite dish.
Because of the curve of the Earth, satellites aim to transmit radio signals around the visible curve of the earth hence maximizing their broadcast. This wide range use of signal may eventually lead to interference. International organizations have set frequency bands that organizations are expected to use. Communication satellites use X-band, Ku-band, or C-band.
TYPES OF BROADCAST SATELLITES USED FOR COMMUNICATION
There are primarily two type of broadcast satellites used for communications: Fixed Service Satellites (FSS), and Direct Broadcast Satellites (DBS). However, the terms can be ambiguous as there are satellites with the DBS-like output but are on the same linear polarization as FSS.
FIXED SERVICE SATELLITES
According to the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), Fixed service satellites, as the name implies, involves “radiocommunication between the radiocommunication service between earth stations at given positions, when one or more satellites are used.” This satellite communication requires a much larger dish for signal reception. FSS uses C-band and Ku-band. It is offers a good means of broadcasting to commercial organizations.
DIRECT BROADCAST SATELLITES
Direct broadcast satellites involves the transmission of radio signals for direct reception by the general public. Media is recorded uploaded on a platform. The broadcast station then sends a signal to the satellite to transmit the audio, or video. Signals on the DBS use the higher portions of the Ku-band. They are received on dishes smaller than those used by Fixed Service Satellites. Broadcast companies such as Sairtek, use the DVB-S, and DVB-S2 standards for transmission.
WHY SATELLITE BROADCASTING?
- 1. Access to Many Viewers: Satellite Broadcasting offers commercial companies the chance of gaining massive following. A large number of homes in Nigeria have satellite dishes with which they watch channels. Satellite television is one of the most popular means of television transmission available. Sairtek offers churches and betting companies the opportunity to reach out to millions of their viewers. They will also be able to use this chance to garner more members to their congregation.
- 2. Cost: The cost of setting up a television channel is no longer as expensive as during the advent of satellite broadcasting. Through broadcasting companies like Sairtek, organizations can now broadcast for as low as $1600 monthly. And such companies usually offer some sort of discount. There are thousands of companies that have set up their channels. For viewers, satellite television is a much cheaper means of viewing their favourite channel than internet streaming.
- 3. Extensive Coverage: Satellites are visibly able to cover a large circumference of the earth. Some satellites are even able to cover whole continents. This means that they are able to broadcast their channels to viewers in even remote regions. At Sairtek we offer our clients the chance to be viewed and heard in all Sub-Saharan African countries, that is more than thirty-three countries.
- 4. Large Channel Selection: For viewers, satellite broadcasting means they are able to watch a variety of channels. The channels available to them can be of any category. News channels covering the latest happenings across the globe. Sports channels featuring as many sports as there are. A multitude of movies. Church services for the religious. Satellite television means that virtually any type of commercial business can be broadcasted even if it’s a simple advertisement.
5. Great Video and Audio Quality: The picture quality of satellite broadcasts has improved over the years. Television users can now watch their shows and favourite channels in High Definition (HD). Unlike with internet streaming, satellite tv users do not have to worry about buffering videos.
