...independent network groups have signed on to deliver more than 250 basic and premium cable channels plus audio channels via the new HITS “Q2” Platform. The HITS Q2 upgrade, starting this month, will convert several HITS SD transponders to DVB-S2 technology, increase the number of HD services offered in MPEG-2, and deliver the entire programming lineup via a single satellite.

The programming available to HITS’ cable operator customers on the new platform includes major network groups such as Discovery Communications, NBCUniversal, and Scripps Networks Interactive, as well as independents such as ShopNBC and Word. Several premium channels will also be available on the upgraded platform. In addition, HITS will continue to distribute pay per view (PPV) programming from iN DEMAND and more than 40 audio entertainment channels from DMX Music Inc., a Mood Media company.

With many television networks eliminating their SD feeds and/or migrating their direct satellite feeds to MPEG-4 video compression technology, HITS Q2 provides an opportunity for HITS’ programming partners such as RFD-TV to continue to serve cable operators with existing MPEG-2 infrastructure without additional capital expense at the headend. The HITS Q2 upgrade improves the efficiency of MPEG-2 services offered by HITS, allowing operators to utilize their existing technology as well as update their equipment at significantly less cost than other plant upgrade options. This helps operators maintain competitive service levels with minimal capital investment.

As part of the upgrade, more than 70 percent of the HITS multiplexes will be using 256 QAM DVB-S2 technology. This technology enables cable operators to add more SD and HD signals using fewer satellite receivers with their existing customer premise equipment (CPE), and to free up to 25 percent of their bandwidth for new services. In addition, the upgrade provides a cost-effective solution for cable systems looking to convert any remaining analog channels to digital using their existing MPEG-2 architecture. New MPEG-2 HD services are planned for the second half of 2013.