Pager service is disrupted by a glitch with satellite; millions of beepers are rendered silent
Article Abstract:
The failure of Panamsat's Galaxy 4 satellite on May 19, 1998, disrupted service to millions of US paging service customers and television networks, including CBS. Between 80% and 90% of Paging Network's 10.4 million paging customers lost service when the satellite malfunctioned at 6:18 p.m. EDT, and a spokesman said only around 200,000 users had access to the service late that night. AT&T's wireless operation said the problem had affected service to an unknown percentage of its 1.2 million paging users. Panamsat, which is owned by General Motors's Hughes Electronics subsidiary, drew criticism from paging carrier Pagemart Wireless for an unprecedented inconvenience to its approximately 2.7 million customers. CBS radio and television, in addition to the Chinese Television Network and the CNN Airport Network also transmit behind-the-scenes footage over the Galaxy 4 satellite, according to the Associated Press. Doctors and other professionals frequently rely on pagers for receiving emergency messages.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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At F.C.C. confirmation hearings, emphasis will be on competition
Article Abstract:
The US Senate likely will confirm William E. Kennard as chmn of the FCC, but senators will ask Kennard why the Telecommunications Act of 1996 has not produced more competition in the communications industry. Other FCC candidates expected to receive approval from the Senate Commerce Committee are Harold Furchtgott-Roth, Michael Powell and Gloria Tristani. These confirmation hearings will draw considerable attention because the FCC has emerged as perhaps the most influential regulatory panel in Washington. Lack of competition in most telecommunications markets is the chief area of concern among many politicians and regulators. Kennard, nominated by President Clinton to replace outgoing chmn Reed E. Hundt, has been the FCC's general counsel. Many consider Kennard to be a compromise candidate, although the FCC has won approximately 85% of its cases in Federal appeals court under Kennard's leadership.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1997
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