HNS Finishes Chip

[Steve Mehs]

Hughes Network Systems announced the development of the first 440 Mbps digital modem chip, which it said is a critical milestone for the development of DirecWAY terminals that will support the future Spaceway broadband satellite system. The ASIC chip, named "Maxwell" after the Scottish physicist and mathematician, is one of the key components that comprise the end user terminal. It will transmit and receive information to and from the satellite that yields the ability to switch on-board the satellite, thereby eliminating the requirement for an expensive ground hub switching point, the company said.

From SkyReport (http://www.skyreport.com/skyreport/jan2003/012803.shtm#five) (Used with Permission)

[I luv satellite tv]

I see that Hughes has US/Canada approval to launch Spaceway service on Ka @105 in 2005. But it has been my understanding that the target market for this service is medium/large businesses.

Whereas the WildBlue 2 way internet service, which will launch in 2004 on Anik F2 ka @111.1, is aimed at thr rural and small business market. The goal being to get the monthly charge down to as close to DSL/cable charge as possible.