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The broadcaster's senior international correspondent Walter Rodgers
debuted the new equipment while travelling at speeds of up to 40
mph throughout the advance of the troops across the Kuwait border
and deep into Iraq.
Rodgers used a standard videophone system connected to a specially
developed tracking satellite phone antenna, mounted on the vehicle
roof. This antenna has the ability to lock onto a satellite beacon
and remains stationary, even as the vehicle it's mounted on turns,
bounces, and speeds along at up to 60 mph.
According to Rodgers, " Photographer Charlie Miller filmed
from numerous positions from inside and outside the car, bracing
himself as best he could on the car frame. I was able to concentrate
on reporting live to CNN’s numerous broadcast services this historic
event as Jeff Barwise, our engineer, concentrated on ensuring that
our new equipment worked above and beyond our expectations."
According to a release, in addition to broadcasting images, these
antennae allow reporters to file video packages, check email, and
make phone calls while moving at speed through rough terrain or
heavy seas.
CNN will have similar land-based systems deployed elsewhere in
the Middle East during this conflict, as well as sea-based versions
aboard the USS Lincoln and Constellation.
CNN.com has also launched an online press kit. The broadcaster
is looking to make the job of media writers reporting on the conflict
easier. The kit details CNN's coverage of the war. Found at www.cnn.com/services/iraq.opk
Strike on Iraq provides an overview of how the network is
covering the conflict. The kit includes exclusive CNN images, maps,
network personnel in the region, press releases, latest programming
schedules and links to CNN.com special reports.
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