Eutelsat Communications has revealed that four transponders on its W5 satellite will remain permanently out of use following a technical issue with its power supply sub-system last month.

The problem has been stabilised but, following a technical investigation, it was decided that it would not be possible to bring back into operational use the four affected transponders that were turned off as a result of the incident.

W5, which now has a reduced operating capacity of 20 transponders, is used for video distribution and contribution links, occasional-use video and internet backbone.

Despite the reduction in number, the company hopes to be able to provide the same service using the remaining transponders.

The W5 satellite was made by Thales Alenia Space.

Eutelsat is one of the world's three leading satellite operators in terms of revenues. In Spring of this year Eutelsat's satellites were broadcasting almost 3,000 television channels and 1,100 radio stations.

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