E! Networks has selected Scientific-Atlanta's PowerVu digital encoding system to begin the analog-to-digital conversion of its primary East Coast feed for E! Entertainment Television programming.

E! will use Scientific-Atlanta's innovative, reliable side carrier technology solution to deliver its new digital East Coast feed to cable affiliates.

E! Networks vice president of engineering David Gaudino said, "In 1997 we began using the PowerVu system as a side carrier feed for our West Coast affiliates. When we were ready to shift our primary programming feed to digital, our very successful deployment and use of our first PowerVu system gave us the confidence to move our East Coast feed onto a new PowerVu platform."

To implement the east coast digital feed, E! will use the PowerVu side-carrier capability as well. The primary E! programming signal will continue to be delivered by analog to its east coast affiliates. At the same time, E! will transmit a PowerVu compressed digital signal adjacent to its analog feed on the same transponder. Thus, using PowerVu, E! can deliver the digital programming without adding another transponder or interrupting its analog signal.

Scientific-Atlanta's Transmission Network Systems vice president of market development Paul Kosac said, "Our extensive experience in helping programmers migrate from analog to digital without disrupting existing service to their affiliates was an important factor in E!'s selection of our PowerVu digital solution for a seamless transition. More and more programmers are selecting PowerVu for its flexibility, security and management capabilities to distribute their valuable programming."