Sony announces program to support Digital Satellite Systems - DSS - for multi-dwelling units - MDU

Business Wire, August 13, 1996

PARK RIDGE, N.J.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aug. 13, 1996--Responding to the growing national interest in Digital Satellite Systems (DSS(R)), Sony Electronics Inc. is creating solutions that make DSS available to multiple dwelling residences, such as apartment buildings and condominium complexes.

Sony has developed a new product that will allow multiple dwelling units (MDU), through established system operators to install a Sony-brand DSS system in each unit giving apartment dwellers access to DIRECTV and U.S. Satellite Broadcasting(SM) programming. The system uses a single 24" satellite antenna to provide DSS programming to all units in a building which can, at the same time, receive local network stations.

In conjunction with DIRECTV Inc., which recently also announced a program to deliver its programming services to multiple dwelling units (MDU), Sony has begun to establish a network of independent system operators to facilitate the sale, installation and maintenance of Sony-brand DSS systems in multiple dwelling residences.

"This announcement represents the culmination of more than a year of pioneering efforts by Sony that involved MDU market research and development including MDU pilot programs to test our system," said Sean Rooney, Director, Diversified Markets, Sony Electronics Inc.

To further support its entry and commitment to the marketplace, Sony has prepared a start-up kit for potential system operators. Contained in the kit is an overview of the Sony MDU product; a list of regional sales offices that potential system operators can call for more information; all pertinent sales and reseller documentation; a list of available products; a training and performance guide; frequently asked questions about DSS and the MDU market; and loan/financing information. Sony has also prepared a white paper and advertorial detailing its MDU product. The white paper and advertorial are tools designed to educate potential MDU system operators and users of the benefits of Sony's DSS MDU technology.

"It's estimated that there are more than 25 million American households living in multiple dwelling units," said Rooney. "Many of these households are unable to install a DSS antenna for a variety of reasons, such as having no line of sight to the satellite, local ordinances or building management restrictions. With the Sony MDU solution, a single dish on the roof can allow occupants to enjoy the digital clarity and wide variety of programming choices afforded by Sony-brand DSS. This is accomplished by working in tandem with the property management or ownership group."

Although each installation will be different, Sony's system follows a basic pattern whereby a single cable is capable of delivering both DSS programming and local network stations. In most cases, the solution will work with a building's existing cable, virtually eliminating the expense and difficulty associated with adding or replacing cable. Each subscribing customer in individual apartments receives the full benefits of Sony-brand DSS, including the electronic program guide and pay-per-view capability.

"Initial discussions have yielded strong interest in Sony's multiple dwelling system from building owners, private cable operators, co-op/condominium associations and tenants. Providing Sony-brand DSS is a relatively inexpensive way to add value and prestige to a building to attract and retain residents," Rooney explained.

Individual property owners and companies interested in receiving more information on the Sony MDU Solution may fax a request to 1-800-853-SONY. Sony's MDU Solution will also be showcased at this week's SBCA (Satellite Broadcasting and Communications Association), satellite show in Nashville, Tenn.

Sony-brand DSS products offer ease-of-use features and advanced consumer benefits, such as: one-button record with VCR mouse, Enhanced Express Navigator(TM) with Direct Tuning(TM) capability and a 32-bit microprocessor, which make navigating through the more than 200 channels provided by DIRECTV and U.S. Satellite Broadcasting(SM) easier and faster than ever.

The Sony-brand DSS line-up for MDU applications includes two models: the basic model, SAT-B2, and the advanced model, SAT-A2. The company has also designed a multi-room DSS distribution system, MRD-D1, which enables one satellite receiver to feed multiple TVs throughout an apartment or condominium. The system accepts two video inputs as well as cable or off-air antenna signals for access to local network stations and distributes the signals to up to five televisions. The two video sources can be controlled even from another room with Sony's UHF/RF Remote Commander(R) remote control.

CONTACT: Technology Solutions, Park Ridge

Donna Austi, 212/696-2000, ext. 22

e-mail: dausti@tsipr.com