Broadwave Communications on Friday asked the FCC for permission to launch a terrestrial-based video and data system on the same spectrum used by digital broadcast satellite providers.

Broadcasting & Cable, January, 1999

"We're seeking to create a new video network that will compete head-to-head with cable," said Sofia Collier, president of Broadwave. She said the company also should have a big edge of DBS companies because it can offer local broadcast signals. Collier said she hopes to reach agreements with local stations to transmit Broadwave signals over conventional television towers.

She predicted that the company would be able to offer a 96-channel service for $17.95 monthly. Broadwave's system was developed by Northpoint Technology, which Collier also heads. A demonstration of the technology is under way in Austin, Texas.