Vision - May/June 2008 - (Page 29)

CEAnewsline The Federal Communications Commission has a rule (47 C.F.R. Section 1.4000) that has been in effect since October 14, 1996. It prohibits restrictions that impair the installation, maintenance or use of antennas used to receive video programming. The rule applies to video antennas including direct-to-home satellite dishes that are less than one meter (39.37 inches) in diameter (or any size in Alaska), TV antennas and wireless cable antennas. The rule prohibits most restrictions that: (1) unreasonably delay or prevent installation, maintenance or use; (2) unreasonably increase the cost of installation, maintenance or use; or (3) preclude reception of an acceptable quality signal. The rule applies to viewers who place video antennas on property that they own and that is within their exclusive use or control, including condominium owners and cooperative owners who have an area where they have exclusive use, such as balcony or patio, in which to install the antenna. The rule applies to townhomes and manufactured homes, as well as to single-family homes. The rule allows local governments, community associations and landlords to enforce restrictions that do not impair, as well as restrictions needed for safety or historic preservation. The rule also does not apply to common areas that are owned by a landlord, a community association, or jointly by condominium or cooperative owners. Therefore, restrictions on antennas installed in common areas are enforceable. On January 22, 1999, an amendment became effective which extends the rule to rental property where the renter has exclusive use, such as a balcony or patio. For more information, visit www.antennaweb.org. • Gary Cornhouse/Getty Images Discovery Goes Green On June 4, 2008, Discovery Communications’ Home Channel will be re-branded Planet Green. This global initiative marks the first 24-hour ecolifestyle television network. Simulcast in HD, it will reach 50 million homes with more than 250 hours of original green lifestyle programming. President and General Manager Eileen O’Neill, who oversees the strategic development of Planet Green said, “Working with a broad range of partners, our goal is to find innovative ways to engage people of all ages and backgrounds through content that’s entertaining, relevant and accessible. Planet Green is about motivating people to take an active role in a new conversation about the future of our planet.” Planet Green will leverage its television, marketing, digital media and education platforms to raise awareness for the issues facing the planet and highlight action-based ssolutions and initiatives. Its two companion websites, TreeHugger.com and Planetgreen.com, provide deeper information for viewers including interactive reviews and opportunities to get involved. Planet Green’s original programming combines Eileen O’Neill unique formats and up-todate information on green living with pop culture icons and personalities. O’Neil said, “We are very interested in great stories that reflect the breath and depth of the green spectrum.” She adds, “We have programming on home renovation, design, auto, food—we are engaged in all content areas.” She added, “The consumer electronics industry is so pervasive. There is such great innovation and ingenuity with smarter, better products. This is an important movement and we would like to work together.” Original Series Programming: Emeril Green Host: Emeril Lagasse G Word Hosts: SuChin Pak and Daniel Sieberg The Green Life (WT) Host: Adrian Grenier Greenovate Greensburg Hollywood Green Host: Maria Menounos Mean Green Machines Renovation Nation Host: Steve Thomas Supper Club Host: Tom Bergeron WA$TED! Host: Annabelle Gurwitch World’s Greenest Homes Host: Emmanuel Belliveau Wrecklamation Host: Jodi Murphy May/June 2008 29 http://www.antennaweb.org http://TreeHugger.com http://planetgreen.com

Table of Contents Feed for the Digital Edition of Vision - May/June 2008

Vision - May/June 2008 Contents Shapiro's Spectrum In This Issue The Economist C4 Trends Visionary Making the Smartphone Truly Intelligent Shipping Strategies for CE Companies IP in BRIC Countries CEA Newsline Tech Speak Eye on Business Tech Policy Market Insider Just the Stats

Vision - May/June 2008

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