Jun 11 2009
Digital Satellite TV Headend Systems For Flats And Condominiums
I work with property owners each day that have heard of these digital satellite TV headend systems and wonder what the benefits are, and whether or not their property would be a good candidate for a headend system. Here are some cliff notes to assist you better understand what a headend system is and whether or not you could benefit from one on your property.
So what is a headend system you ask?
In short and “non-teckie” terms, a headend system is an equipment rack filled with active electronics capable of receiving, processing and delivering digital satellite TV signals to an entire community over coaxial cable and/ or fiber optic infrastructure. Headend systems are used by both franchised and non-franchised cable companies to offer video, Internet and telephone services to customers. Non-franchised cable companies known as Private Cable Operators (PCO’s) frequently utilize digital satellite TV headend systems to deliver satellite TV signals to private communities like apartments and condominiums. Private satellite TV headend systems are a great solution for any property suffering from balcony dishes and/ or poor cable TV service from the local cable company.
The Benefits of a Digital Satellite TV Headend System
1. Minimize balcony dishes
The installation of a digital headend system offers the residents of an apartment or condominium community the ability to receive digital satellite TV channels without the need for an individual satellite dish. Further, bulk and other discounted programs offered by DISH Network and DirecTV allow for reduced pricing to those customers residing on a property that is served by a digital satellite TV headend system.
2. Increased programming options to residents
Digital satellite TV service offers hundreds of channels of programming including sports, news, movies, music, high definition, Video On Demand (VOD), pay-per-view, international and much more.
3. Analog & Digital TV Services
Satellite TV headend systems could also deliver analog programming to customers who do not have an interest in receiving hundreds of channels. Property owners benefit by having the ability to customize analog channel lineups, while branding their property with community channels and customized TV guide channels.
4. Combines Video with Internet & Telephone
These days it’s all about the double and triple play. Headend systems allow for delivery of not only video, but Internet and Telephone service as well.
5. Little or no cost to property owner
For qualified properties, the cost to install a headend system is frequently subsidized by the satellite TV provider. Further, many properties benefit by receiving revenue sharing payments on the services delivered by the headend.
