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December 6, 2004


General Dynamics C4 Systems has finalized a contract with the DIRECTV group to supply four VertexRSI nine-meter Ka-band turnkey earth terminals. DIRECTV will use them to expand its high-definition (HD) services using its Spaceway satellites. The units will be produced by VertexRSI’s San Jose, California facility.

As a turnkey provider, General Dynamics is responsible for the entire earth station including the antenna structure, feed, low-noise amplifiers, high-power amplifiers, block converters, and inter-facility links.

The VertexRSI antenna systems will be installed in DIRECTV's primary broadcasting facilities of Los Angeles Broadcast Center (LABC) and Castle Rock Broadcast Center (CRBC). The antennas feature a Monopulse Tracking System for precision tracking performance. In addition, the antennas have a specially designed hub to house Ka-band amplifiers and associated frequency conversion equipment. The VertexRSI systems' large-sized hub allows operators easy access to maintain all the electronics installed in the hub.

The VertexRSI family of antenna systems was acquired by General Dynamics C4 Systems as part of the purchase of TriPoint Global Communications in Sept. 2004.

"The General Dynamics VertexRSI antenna systems will provide critical support for what is the largest programming expansion in DIRECTV's 10-year history," said Romulo Pontual, executive vice president and Chief Technology Officer, The DIRECTV Group. "As a turnkey provider, General Dynamics enables DIRECTV engineers to focus on other key elements of this massive project with the knowledge that the antenna systems are in the hands of a company known for its industry-leading technical expertise and dedication to providing reliable, mission critical systems."

DIRECTV, Inc., the nation's leading and fastest growing provider of digital television service, announced plans in September to launch four new next-generation satellites to dramatically expand its programming capacity for the transmission of hundreds of local and national HD channels, as well as new interactive and enhanced services and standard-definition programming. The first two satellites, Spaceway 1 and Spaceway 2, will launch in 2005 and will allow for the transmission of more than 500 local HD channels.
 

For more information on VertexRSI’s Antenna Products contact: Rob Wellins at 408-980-4520, or via email at rob.wellins@tripointglobal.com. Visit our web site at www.tripointglobal.com

General Dynamics C4 Systems offers a family of satellite and wireless communications products and services under its VertexRSI, Prodelin, and Gabriel brands. Visit our web site at http://www.tripointglobal.com.

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