For the past several years the Lewis Research Center has been conducting studies concerning land mobile radio with the primary objective of determining the most effective role satellite systems might play 1n providing this service 1n the rural United States (outside of the 313 Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas). This objective has been addressed by: (1) determining If sufficient market potential exists; (2) characterizing the nature of the market 1n terms of service needs, usage

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... stics, service requirements, and forecasting the demand to the year 2000; (3) defining alternative system concepts that show promise 1n addressing the Identified needs, 1n a cost effective manner; and (4) Identifying advanced technology requirements associated with these concepts. This effort was Initiated with Inhouse scoping studies to develop a basic understanding of these areas and to Identify problems and Issues requiring more 1n-depth study. Subsequently, two study contracts were awarded, one to the General Electric Company (GE) and the other to TRW, to conduct more 1n-depth analyses. This report summarizes and discusses the major findings of these studies.