Hughes Unveils Plans for DirecPC(TM)-Based High-Speed Internet/TV Kiosk
New Satellite Surfer(TM) Coming Soon to an Airport Near You
GERMANTOWN, Md., March 24 /PRNewswire/ -- That long Chicago layover...A just-missed flight. Frustrations all travelers can relate to. What will you do with all that spare time? With the new Satellite Surfer(TM) Internet/TV kiosk, you'll be able to watch digital satellite television, surf the Web using DirecPC(TM) and send e-mail to your office -- all at the same time, on the same screen. This scenario will become a reality for travelers when the new, credit card-activated kiosks begin springing up at airports across the United States later this year.
Today, Hughes Network Systems (HNS) announced its plans for the launch of Satellite Surfer(TM), which uses the DirecDuo(TM) satellite hardware platform to provide these services without the need for expensive cable, T-1 or ISDN lines. Introduced last July, DirecDuo provides consumers with both DirecPC Turbo Internet(TM) service and digital satellite television via one 21-inch elliptical satellite dish.
Unlike other kiosks currently available, Satellite Surfer features can run simultaneously, in picture-in-picture mode, with no degradation in performance or signal quality. Plus, according to Paul Gaske, senior vice president at HNS, the DirecPC-based kiosk will offer less expensive and faster Internet access than terrestrial alternatives and can be installed at just about every airport in the country.
Gaske says Satellite Surfer kiosks will begin appearing in airports and business locations across the United States in the next few months. ''We've had an extraordinary level of interest in Satellite Surfer from some of the nation's largest airlines and retail businesses,'' said Gaske. ''We expect to make some very exciting announcements about the kiosk shortly.''
Most of the airline interest stems from Satellite Surfer's ability to provide a true multimedia experience for the business traveler. ''Instead of just offering e-mail access,'' added Gaske, ''we've got something for those who may want to kick back and watch a little TV while waiting for a plane -- or while retrieving e-mail.'' Gaske added that other applications will arise in places like coffee bars, shopping malls and libraries.
Dallas-based Vetec Visitronics developed the user interface for the Satellite Surfer and handles the actual manufacturing of the individual kiosks, while Denver-based Net Works Communications is spearheading the sales and marketing programs for this combined effort.
Satellite Surfer(TM) is available in several configurations -- from single user to up to four user designs. Custom kiosk designs are also being accommodated for various customers.
The current plan calls for test marketing and beta testing to be conducted with a major airline over the next few months. Expected availability is May 1998. Pricing will be announced at that time. |
