Airborne Direct Broadcast Television

The jeTVision Direct Broadcast Satellite (DBS) system is designed to operate worldwide and provide aircraft passengers with the same live programming available to home-based satellite TV viewers. The system provides satellite audio and video signals and interfaces to existing air transport inflight entertainment (IFE) systems or general aviation cabin management systems.

The system includes an antenna assembly, protective radome, control unit, and receiver/decoder unit. The patented pointing system incorporated in the 18-lb antenna assembly acquires and maintains Ku-band satellite transmissions. The 7-lb. Control Unit (JCU) operates on 28V and the receiver/decoder units (RDU) operates on 115V ac at 400 Hz.

A multi-channel capability with two or more RDUs permits reception of multiple channels simultaneously, allowing individual passengers to select their own programs. The system also features low power consumption, built-in test, an open architecture, and no requirement for forced-air cooling.

Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., Telecommunications Products Div., PO Box 1235, Broomfield, CO 80038. Phone: 303-939-6100; Fax: 303-533-4025.