1) Expansion and strengthening of function as prefectural radio communications for disaster prevention
The present prefectural disaster prevention radio system is an aboveground system. The shortage of circuits in the terminal stations in cities, towns, etc., sometimes hinders the collection and transmission of information. In some areas, it sometimes becomes very difficult to communicate because of interference caused by external electric waves.
The introduction of the satellite communications system not only solves problems arising from the lack of circuits, but also enables the establishment of a high-quality digital network and transmission of animated images by the analog system. As a result, collection and transmission of disaster information is greatly improved.
2) Development of advanced administrative information transmission function
The prefectural disaster prevention radio system is used as one of the main means of communicating information between the prefectural office and branch agencies and between the prefecture and the cities, towns and villages. The main circuits are steadily being converted to digital circuits, and efforts are being made to improve the quality of the circuits and expand the range of use to data communications, etc.
However, with regard to communications between prefectures and municipalities, there are not enough terminal stations. In addition, most of the municipalities do not have internal connections. People do not want to use it because it is very hard to make calls. In particular, when prefectures issue a general order, sometimes the circuits of all the municipalities are automatically cut off. In addition, it takes too long to transmit a facsimile message because the transmission speed is slow.
The introduction of satellite communications enables both the securing of the necessary number of circuits, and internal connections, so convenience is greatly improved. Earth stations of municipalities may be equipped with both a channel for mutual communication of minimum voice and facsimile data and a channel exclusively for reception. Reliability of the satellite communications system is improved and transmission of facsimiles and data becomes faster.
3) Holding of video conferences, video briefing sessions and video training courses
At present, it is only possible to hold video conferences between specific areas, but in future it will be possible all over the country. In addition to greatly reduced costs, it will be possible to transmit administrative information rapidly and accurately through the television and hold training courses for specialist staff. It will also enable the national government and prefectures to hold multi-lateral video conferences whenever necessary and to explain their policies, laws, notices and projects to local authorities through the television.
The establishment of an earth station exclusively for reception at public institutions such as schools, community centres and gymnasiums will contribute to improving school education and lifelong learning and expand the opportunities for attending school. Video training courses which provide courses held by various training organizations through the television contribute to development of human resources and improvement of services for residents.
4) Sending of regional images all over the country.
By developing the function of transmitting analog pictures, it is possible to send a wide range of information in images, such as local news, information on festivals, places of interest, sightseeing spots, local industry, traditional entertainment and leading examples of regional development. It is virtually impossible for local authorities to use the private nationwide network television because the charge for electromagnetic waves is too high. However projects are under way to supply programs for CATV using communications satellites. At the same time, installation of CATV and subscription to CATV is increasing all over the country. The number of television channels has jumped dramatically and there is an increasing possibility of securing a channel exclusively for administrative and regional information. Due to flexible circuit settings, it is possible to project images onto display televisions installed in places where people gather such as streets and event sites.
