134 COMMENTARY For decades, live television at sea has been defined – and constrained – by the limits of traditional satellite coverage. Fixed geographic footprints, variable signal performance and limited channel options have dictated an operators’ onboard entertainment proposition. With the costs associated with maintaining or replacing traditional television receive-only systems (TVRO) becoming a major topic for many operators, a new approach to live TV channel delivery is needed. Maxicaster’s new LEO TV solution is redefining those constraints. By delivering live TV channels via Low Earth Orbit (LEO) connectivity, it enables any vessel to access premium live TV channels anywhere in the world. Maxicaster’s unique channel delivery technology delivers high-definition quality with low bitrates and reduces bandwidth by at least 50 per cent making LEO delivery an economically feasible option. All vessel types can now deliver a consistent, high-quality viewing experience, regardless of location. This means better and more relevant live TV channels onboard. Onboard, the Maxicaster RX-100 offers a light weight, intelligent, multi-channel receiver, making live TV commercially viable even in the most remote locations. Operators retain full control of bandwidth usage at all times through a dedicated dashboard. They can set off-peak streaming restrictions, pause transmission or even define specific quota per LEO provider, keeping bandwidth costs in control. The dashboard also includes the ability to define data quotas, allowing operators to switch between different LEO providers or from LEO to TVRO to capitalise on the best available rate. The RX100 can work with any existing onboard IPTV/entertainment platform, removing technical impact and ensuring no operational disruptions. The service can be used as a complement to existing TVRO delivery providing curated, country-specific channels, act as a resilient backup when vessels move outside satellite coverage or as a full TVRO replacement. The service is complemented by a growing catalogue of premium live TV channel rights sourced from leading broadcasters across the world. This allows operators to build tailored channel line-ups that reflect the preferences, languages and cultural expectations of passengers and crew. Channels can be selected individually without the need to buy in to a complete channel package. Connectivity at sea is entering a new era. Television no longer needs to be defined by orbital footprints or bandwidth compromises. As vessels sail further and passengers expect more, live television can finally travel without limits. Live TV over LEO Maxicaster’s new LEO TV solution is transforming the delivery of live TV for the next era ANDREW BROWN Andrew Brown is chief operating officer of Maxicaster, a live TV and entertainment solution provider
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