FAQ
I want to ask the hard question up front. How much does this service cost?
The typical rate for a satellite truck is $2,500 per day. Production resources are extra. Jobs with a television production component are more complex and require more planning and logistics support. Typical Production/Satellite jobs range from $5,000 to $30,000.
I'm corporate communications, not television production. Do I need to get my own crew?
No, you don't...unless you already have a crackerjack crew in mind. If not, ARCTEK will provide the crew from its talented resources.
When I'm watching TV, I see a reporter talking with the newscaster, but can they see each other?
What is the difference between one-way and two-way audio and video? A typical newscast live shot is one-way video, two-way audio. This means the television station can see (Video) and hear (Audio) the reporter in the field, with the reporter only able to listen to anchors and not seeing them. The reporter's earpiece completes the two-way audio interact, much like a very technical telephone call. This circuit can be completed via a phone line, satellite audio channel or radio frequency. Two-way video would be sending audio and video both ways.
My event won't take all day. Does ARCTEK have a half-day rate on satellite trucks?
Unfortunately we do not have a half-day rate for the satellite trucks. However, the day rate includes truck and operator for 10 hours, fuel to and from the location and any meals the operator may need. ARCTEK has a pricing structure where you will not see any additional costs on your invoice unless it is discussed or requested during the production. ARCTEK does offer half-day rates on camera crews. Please call for rates and availability.
My event isn't in Minnesota. How far will ARCTEK travel for my event?
ARCTEK is based out of Minneapolis but we will travel anywhere in the United States. A common saying around the office is "has wheels, will travel." We have a competitive local, regional and national pricing structure on all our resources. Please give us a call; we can help.
My event is more than one day. Does ARCTEK offer multiple day discounts?
Yes. Whether it is a 2- or 3-day event or thirty-six days throughout a twelve-month period, ARCTEK can work with you and your budget to ensure you get exactly what you are looking for at a fair price.
I've booked your truck, but what do I do about the satellite part?
Does ARCTEK offer Satellite Space? Yes, and at a competitive price. With combined experience of over 40 years, we have relations and connections throughout the entire satellite industry. On average, ARCTEK purchases 500 hours a year of satellite space for our clients' events.
I've heard of C-band satellites and Ku-band satellites. Can ARCTEK transmit on any satellite?
Yes, we can transmit digital or analog on any KU or C-Band satellite. See uplink rates here.
What is your cancellation policy?
In a nutshell, once you've committed us to a project...we are yours for that day. We don't take other work. If you suddenly cancel the project after committing to us, we're left holding the bag without a job for that day because we've turned away other projects to do yours. That's why we charge our full rate if you cancel our services within 7 days of your event. Please call to discuss the specifics.
I've never heard of you. How long have you been in business?
ARCTEK HD has been in business as a legal entity since January 2003...but our experience dates back nearly 20 years. Please read about our history for our story.
Why did you name your company ARCTEK HD? What does ARCTEK mean?
ARC, as defined in the dictionary, is a continuous portion (like in a circle or ellipse) of a curved line. Now picture that curved line sitting out in space over the Equator. And on that line are a number of satellites holding their position in space. That's what we call the satellite arc.
TEK (that's how we spell "tech"). An abbreviation. Short for technical, technician, technology, etc.
We pronounce it "ÄRK-tik," or "ÄR-tik". But why you say? Because our home office is in Minnesota that can, at times, be home to some of the coldest temperatures and wind chills in the country.