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DIRECTV: HDTV Satellite Almost Ready
But the satcaster acknowledges that the satellite's 'spot-beam' capability is lacking.
By Swanni
The satcaster said the DIRECTV 10 satellite, which was launched in July, has been placed in geo-synchronous orbit and is now undergoing in-orbit testing.
"The testing process has confirmed that the satellite is fully functional to deliver all planned nationwide HD programming. This will enable DIRECTV to deliver up to 100 HD channels nationwide by year-end," DIRECTV said in a press release.
DIRECTV has said it will expand from 10 HD channels to 70 HD channels this month and 100 by year's end.
However, the company last night acknowledged a problem with the DIRECTV 10 satellite's spot-beam capacity, which is designed to enable DIRECTV to provide local HD channels in more markets.
"While testing of DIRECTV 10’s capability continues, it appears that a portion of the anticipated spot-beam capability may not be fully available," the satcaster said.
But DIRECTV added that it does not believe the spot-beam problem will "materially affect" its planned expansion of HD local channels "as previously announced."
The satcaster reiterated that its next satellite launch is still planned for late this year or early next year.
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