XM Satellite Radio this week was granted a special authority by the FCC to operate 5,000 indoor signal boosters manufactured by Translight Video Systems (pictured).

The use of these indoor signal boosters is separate from in-store signal boosters, of which was also granted authority (for an additional 5,000) to both XM and Sirius this week. Instead, this indoor signal booster is meant for "inside stores and other establishments."

Similar in configuration to XM's currently authorized boosters, the antenna will be located on the roof or the outside of a store "or other structure" to receive the XM signal. The signal then is fed via a coaxial cable to an amplifier and antenna inside the establishment, will then amplifies the signal.

Interestingly enough, the inventor of Translight's Satellite Radio Repeater for In-Building Service, Dr. Mircho Davidov, was the Senior VP of Engineering and Chief Scientist responsible for the overall satellite system architecture at Sirius Satellite Radio.

The question remains: what "establishments" does XM intend on using these indoor mini-repeaters for?

Read XM's Application Letter (PDF)
[via Satellite Radio TechWorld]