High quality digital audio broadcasting by the WorldSpace satellite network is defined from scientific, economic, engineering and operational aspects. It is shown that advances in digital audio coding have been primarily responsible for the scientific feasibility of digital audio broadcasting via satellite. Economic parameters for the WorldSpace satellite network are defined and compared with terrestrial broadcasting alternatives. Specific engineering decisions and trade-offs for the achievement of high quality digital audio broadcasting are identified. The paper concludes by describing the operational plans and procedures necessary to achieve high quality digital audio broadcasting by satellite prior to the year 1999.
展开▼