A direct broadcast satellite reception system for automotive OEMs

Mobile direct broadcast satellite (DBS) reception systems have been on the market for several years. But only recently have companies made a serious effort to offer the public a system that can be installed on their automobiles. These products are currently being offered as aftermarket pods bolted to the top of the vehicle. Public acceptance has been slow, though most vehicle manufacturers agree that quality TV reception in the vehicle, at the right price, is on their list of technologies to have. For the OEM, it is imperative that the satellite TV system be integrated seamlessly into the vehicle roof structure in a manner that preserves the designer's styling. Of equal importance, the system's integration with the vehicle human machine interface (HMI) and the audio/video systems must also be seamless. System manufacturers realize that for their product to sell at any significant volume, it must be integrated into a broad range of popular vehicles.