An excellent primer on the subject, this book gives beginning professionals in satellite newsgathering an introduction to the technologies and processes involved. It will also suit journalists, editors and producers needing to understand this important element of the newsgathering chain.
Written for the complete beginner, the book shows how typical transmission chains work and their communication with the studio. It also offers a brief introduction to analogue and digital theory before going onto to explain Electronic Newsgathering (ENG) systems: from basic principles: transmission and reception chains, frequencies used and why, through to audio channel, subcarriers and digital modulation, as well as applications: radio cameras, window links, infra-red & laser links.
A brief chapter on satellite theory gives an overview of satellite communication and orbits, basic satellite communication theory, transportables (`flyaways') and trucks, as well as analogue vs digital issues, digital compression and MPEG. Systems regulations and operations are also introduced as well as safety and logistics issues.
If you're looking for a quick and easy introduction to the subject, this book will act as an essential on the job reference guide.
Biography
Jonathan, an independent satellite communications consultant, was formerly the manager of BBC News Location Facilities Unit. He has been very involved in the development of both truck-based and "fly-away" SNG uplinks over the past fifteen years and is also the author of Introduction to SNG and ENG Microwave, also published by Focal Press. Widely regarded as an authority on all aspects of satellite newsgathering, he has published papers, writen articles and given numerous seminars and lectures around the world on the technical aspects of newsgathering.
"...this is a good introductory book, giving an overview of SNG/ENG techniques in about 200 pages." - EBU Tecnhical Review
