Universal Satellite Communications Selects ATEME CM5000 Encoders

ATEME, a global leader in advanced video compression solutions for the broadcast industry, today announced that Universal Satellite Communications (UniSat), a Los Angeles based, fully integrated supplier of television logistics, production and transmission services, has selected ATEME¹s CM5000 encoders to upgrade its Satellite News Gathering (SNG) vehicles with the latest in encoding technology, including MPEG-4 4:2:2 10-bit features.

“ATEME provided us with the time and equipment we needed to properly evaluate and test these encoders and we couldn’t be more pleased with the results,” says George Edwardz, executive vice president, Universal Satellite Communications. “With ATEME’s CM5000 encoders, our operators are now able to deliver exceptional, reliable encoding services that are compatible with any customer’s receiver, providing UniSat with a unique differentiator for future business opportunities.”

UniSat is the first company to offer digital satellite services in California. An independent operator, they are known for producing mission critical events and broadcasts.

This is the first ATEME customer to adopt a configuration that allows SNG operators to upgrade existing legacy uplink equipment that previously required a satellite modulator to output on Intermediate Frequency (IF).

UniSat has deployed, six high-end CM5000 encoders in its SNG fleet, providing its operators with the latest technology configured to support MPEG-4 4:2:2 10-bit encoding and includes a built-in IF satellite modulator.

Since installing the new encoders six months ago, UniSat has covered many high- profile events, including soccer competitions, news remotes of major national networks, Hollywood red carpet broadcasts and government events.

“We are pleased that UniSat has chosen to upgrade its SNG fleet with the latest in encoding equipment from ATEME,” says Mike Antonovich, SVP and GM, Americas for ATEME. “Our solutions not only provide a reliable, competitive and future proof technology, but also a usability guarantee that sets our customers apart from their competition.”