broadband interactive system (satellite comm.) (BBI)

Broadband Interactive System (BBI) refers to broadband, interactive satellite communication systems. Since such broadband interactive services are often realized via Astra satellites, they are also referred to as ASTRA Broadband Interactive System( ABIS).

In general, two asymmetric transmission paths are available for broadband interactive satellitecommunications: a broadband transmission channel for the downlink from the satellite to the subscriber and a narrowband one for the uplink between subscriber and satellite. At Astra, the transmission rate for the downlink is 38 Mbit/s and that for the return channel is 2 Mbit/s.

The BBI service offering includes multimedia services such as hosting and storage of multimedia content, which is transmitted as an individual service to specific subscribers via the service platform. The distribution platform supports content distribution from the Satellite Interactive Terminal( SIT) and transmits the satellite signal in broadcast or multicast over the BBI downlink to dedicated user groups. In addition, the distribution platform has links to other terrestrial and satellite networks. The subscriber can access all Internet services via the return channel using the IP protocol. The requested services are available to him via the downlink at high speed.

Broadband Interactive System operates in the Ka-band between 29.5 GHz and 30.0 GHz; a frequency band allocated by the International Telecommunication Union( ITU) for Fixed Satellite Services( FSS).