CINENET-cinema films and live events via satellite and cable networks

Following the introduction of digital TV, further advances in digital signal processing technology, displays, and high speed digital transmission are providing the practical means for evolution towards high definition (HD) audio-visual services. The CINENET project is developing an end-to-end system employing HD techniques for real-time distribution of "electronic cinema" via satellite and cable networks. It is a multi-national project participating in the ACTS programme of the European Union. Satellites offer an ideal medium for digital HD distribution by virtue of their wide bandwidth capabilities, high transmission quality and wide-area coverage. High quality, highly reliable reception is available directly at user sites by means of small, low cost antennas. Feeding cable networks from satellites also allows access to their large customer base via interworking, using common MPEG-2 transport streams, and via new cable transmission techniques for HD channels. The services offered will complement existing cinema technology by providing additional material such as live events (e.g. sport, concerts and cultural). In areas devoid of cinemas, the system is a means of introducing the whole range of services including films.