ver over 50 channels of crystal clear audio and multimedia programming via the 1467-1492 megahertz (MHz) segment of the L-Band spectrum, which is allocated for digital audio broadcasting. Initially, the United States will not be part of WorldSpace's coverage area. However, the company has invested in XM Radio and has an agreement with XM to share any technological developments. WorldSpace is going beyond one nation and eyeing world domination of the radio market. That might be overstating the company's intent a bit, but WorldSpace does plan to reach the corners of our world that most radio stations cannot. There are millions of people living in WorldSpace's projected listening area who cannot pickup a signal from a conventional radio station. WorldSpace says it has a potential audience of about 4.6 billion listeners spanning five continents. WorldSpace broadcasters uplink their signal to one of the three satellites through a centralized hub site or an individual feeder link station located within the global uplink beam. The satellite then transmits the signal in one, two or all three beams on each satellite. Receivers on the ground then pick up the signal and provide CD-quality sound through a detachable antenna. WorldSpace contracted four consumer electronics companies to produce small portable receivers, including JVC, Matsu*censored*a (Panasonic), Hitachi and Sanyo. Receiver costs range between $250 and $550. Each receiver is capable of receiving data at a rate of 128 kilobits per second (Kbps). The receivers use the proprietary StarMan chipset, manufactured by ST Microelectronics, to receive digital signals from the satellites. Worldspace subscription rates are determined by local distributors. These distributors offer multiple service options, ranging from a low-cost basic service to a high-end specialty service. Programming for WorldSpace is delivered by Discover, CNN, BBC, Bloomber...
