Use of reference phone in point-to-point satellite communication system

Abstract

A local broadcast mode operation is implemented in a point-to-point satellite communications system (,) by utilizing a terrestrial reference terminal or phone (,) that is located within a desired zone of broadcast operation (,). A broadcast service provider (,) places a call to this reference phone through a terrestrial gateway (,) and at least one satellite (,), and then transmits desired broadcast data to the reference phone. The reference phone receives the broadcast data and functions in a conventional manner to provide power control and related satellite handoff feedback information to the gateway. Authorized user terminals (,) within the zone of broadcast operation are enabled to receive the same signal transmitted to the reference phone by placing a call through the gateway to the broadcast service provider. The broadcast service provider verifies the calling user terminal, and the calling user terminal is then directed to switch to the same frequency, spreading code (for a CDMA embodiment), and encryption key (if employed) that is assigned to the reference phone. Preferably only the reference phone closes the power control link with the gateway through the satellite.