31 Glossary: D-F
Description
This article is from the TeleVision Receive Only Satellite-TV FAQ, by TVRO Hobbyists drlev@hotmail.com with numerous contributions by others.
31 Glossary: D-F
DBS (Direct Broadcast Satellite): A class of satellite service defined
by the FCC and reserved for direct-to-the-home transmission with no
intermediate re-broadcast or cable carriage needed. DBS satellites
utilize higher powered transmissions than regular satellites so that
consumers may receive signals with small inexpensive antennas.
Digital: A communications format used with both electronic and
light-based systems that transmits audio, video, and data as bits
("0's and 1's") of information. Codecs are used to convert traditional
analog signals to digital format and back again. Digital technology
also allows communication signals to be compressed for more efficient
transmission.
Dish: (communications usage) A satellite antenna.
Dolby (TM): Patented noise/hiss reduction systems developed by Ray
Dolby to improve audio recording quality. Dolby A is commonly used in
television; Dolby B was developed for use in consumer electronics.
Downlink: 1. The process of receiving a satellite transmission. 2. The
antenna used to receive a satellite transmission. Other terms for the
equipment include "dish" or "earth station"
EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power): A satellite signal strength
as received at a particular location, measured in decibel-watts per
square meter.
Earth Station: The terrestrial portion of a satellite link consisting
of an antenna, amplifiers, and equipment for receiving and/or
transmitting a satellite signal.
Encoded: A form of scrambling a television signal usually using a
"fixed key" method where all descramblers of a certain type are
pre-set to unscramble the encoded signal.
Encrypted: A form of scrambling a television signal, where the
receiver must not only have a descrambling device, but also have its
"address" registered with the signal distributor
Federal Communications Commission (FCC): An agency created in 1934 by
Congress to regulate broadcasting in the United States and its
territories.
Footprint: (communications usage) The geographical coverage area of a
satellite transmission within which the signal can be downlinked or
received.
Frequency: The number of complete oscillations (cycles) that an
electromagnetic wave makes in a second, usually expressed in hertz; or
the number of sound waves per second produced by a sounding body.
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