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Arqiva commits to additional capacity with Eutelsat

The booking of an additional transponder is to support Arqiva’s strategy to transmit the significant growth in HD channels operating on the Sky and Freesat platforms

Michel_AZIBERT_1219Arqiva has announced the signature of a multi-year commitment with Eutelsat Communications for a 15th transponder at the 28° East video neighbourhood to serve the UK DTH (Direct-to-Home) broadcasting market.

This additional transponder underpins Arqiva’s strategy to support the significant growth in HD channels operating on the Sky and Freesat platforms in the UK. The combination of Arqiva’s teleports and Eutelsat’s non-pre-emptible capacity has led to three channels signing up to the new all-HD platform, including Record TV HD, and Daystar Television, that Arqiva services via RUM’s Media Service.

David Crawford, Managing Director for Satellite and Media at Arqiva, said: “We listened to our customers who were looking to deliver HD broadcasts to both Sky and Freesat platforms by using the latest technology combined with the highest levels of quality and service. In working with Eutelsat, we will be able to support our customers to help them succeed.”

Michel Azibert, Chief Commercial and Development Officer at Eutelsat, added: “We’re delighted to satisfy Arqiva’s criteria for the highest quality of service and to participate in offering viewers High Definition at its best. As more and more consumers invest in new-generation TV screens the broadcasting chain must rigorously deliver the improved experience viewers expect. We’re proud to be part of Arqiva’s commitment to industry-leading levels of quality and resilience.”