Direct broadcast satellite systems in Europe

The technologies implemented by DBS services to meet the WARC '77 guidelines for European coverage are detailed for each member of the EEC. The national footprints are required to have a power flux density of -103 dBW/sq m at the edge and be receivable by a 0.9 m diam antenna. An antenna maximum beamwidth of 2 deg was specified, while satellite output powers can range from 40-230 W, depending on the region of coverage. The TDF-1, TV-Sat, Tele-X, and Olympus satellites are under development for the various countries. It is noted that overspill at the transmitter powers selected will cause significant transnational broadcasting to occur. Smaller countries are negotiating leases on some of the transponders of satellites developed in larger countries to lower their own developmental costs. Uncertainties in the markets for the DBS services have delayed nationally funded projects from being launched.