[Satellite Today 10-16-08] DirecTV will use MPEG-4 AVC HD encoding solutions from Tandberg Television to expand local high-definition (HD) channel expansion, Tandberg announced Oct. 16.
    DirecTV will use Tandberg’s EN8095 encoders, which include IP statistical multiplexing, 8VSB input and control of up to three different outputs — MPEG-4 AVC HD/standard definition and MPEG-2 standard definition. DirecTV provides local HD channels to 100 local U.S. markets and plans to expand that to 121 cities by the end of 2008.
    In separate news, Dish Network has begun transmitting an MPEG-4 AVC HD delivery system to consumers in 11 additional markets in the eastern half of the United States.