FCC's proposal for HDTV may restrict broadcasters

Article Abstract:

The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) proposes a plan for the licensure of high-definition television (HDTV) that industry observers say restricts broadcaster flexibility. In a unanimous vote, the agency proposed that only existing broadcasters will be able to enter the HDTV market. They will have five years, beginning in 1993, in which to apply for an HDTV license. Once the license is granted, broadcasters would then have four years to program the station, and the programming would be identical to that of its sister station. By 2008, broadcasters would have to cease transmitting over conventional channels, and consumers would have to purchase HDTV receivers. Industry executives fear that they would not be able to afford to purchase the required equipment for original programming by the 2008 deadline. Additionally, they believe that the only way to establish mass audience appeal for HDTV is by broadcasting unique programming designed to take advantage of the technology's capabilities, rather than only duplicating conventional programs.

Regulation, admin. of utilities, Television programs, Broadcasting, Licensing agreements, High-definition television, High definition television, Government Agency, Licensing, Regulation

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FCC may open Comsat service to competition

Article Abstract:

The Bush administration would allow competition among telecommunications companies that handle telephone calls via artificial satellites, but proposes to do so slowly. This would give Communications Satellite Corp (Comsat) time to reorganize itself and prepare. Both Secretary of State James Baker and Secretary of Commerce Robert Mosbacher ask that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) allow companies that are not members of the International Telecommunications Consortium (Intelsat) use the public phone networks for their satellite services, but not until Jan 1997. Competition, it is thought, will force international telephone rates down. Comsat favors the government's plan. Apparently Comsat is pleased that there will be no competition for five more years. The FCC is expected to accept the proposal.

Communication services, not elsewhere classified, Business consulting, not elsewhere classified, Telecommunications industry, Science and technology policy, Satellite communications, CQ, Deregulation, United States. Department of State, United States. Department of Commerce, International communication, Competition, Government Regulation, International Communications, Telecommunications Services Industry, International Telecommunications Satellite Organization, Communications Satellite Corp.

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