Harris 2002 Annual Report

Broadcast Communications
Broadcast Manager: Harris Broadcast
Manager, based on Harris NetBoss™ technology
for the telecommunications industry,
enables television stations, groups, or networks
to monitor and control hardware,
software, and associated networks from a
central location. Demand for network
management products is climbing as the
industry moves toward consolidation and
multi-facility operations.
Harris also is helping broadcasters to take full advantage of the potential for innovative programming
and additional revenue streams afforded by digital technology. Individual stations are
modernizing their studios with digital production equipment to ensure locally produced programs
maintain the same high-quality digital values as network programming. Beyond the startling
beauty and quality of high-definition images and CD-quality sound, digital technology creates
the opportunity for broadcasters to diversify into datacasting by delivering products and services
directly to the home through a broadband “information pipe.”
Automation and Network Management
The industry’s move toward consolidation and multiple-location operations has created new
opportunities for Harris’ automation products and the Harris Broadcast Manager, a comprehensive
network management system. These products help station owners to effectively manage
proliferating digital media assets over multiple locations and achieve a level of connectivity
that streamlines operations and reduces costs.
Digital Radio
The nation’s 12,000-plus radio stations also are preparing to enter the digital era. Harris helped
develop the U.S. digital radio standard – In-Band, On-Channel (IBOC) – and has developed new
products for the transition. During fiscal 2002, the company introduced a new Z line of digital
FM transmitters that are IBOC-ready; the new Harris DEXSTAR™ Exciter, which provides
maximum reliability and signal quality; and the Intraplex STL PLUS, a new IBOC-compliant
studio-to-transmitter link.
Bruce M. Allan
President,
Broadcast Communications
[ ]
New digital market
12,000+
U.S. radio stations