Video Out: Take a Look at Leased Access Cable
Broadcasting your program on leased access cable, an opportunity offered by most U.S. cable systems, can be an extremely cost-effective way to launch new programming concepts or sell products. And best of all, leased access cable can actually provide you with a new revenue stream.
The practice has been used successfully by videographers and producers in a wide variety of programming concepts, including how-to's, infomercials, travelogues, talk shows, children's programs, comedy shows, restaurant reviews and local music videos, to name just a few.
The Federal Communications Commission got the leased access ball rolling when it established the Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984. The legislation compelled cable operators of systems with more than 36 channels to set aside 10 to 15 percent of their stations for commercial use.
"Leased access," the act stated, "is aimed at bringing about the widest possible diversity of information sources for cable subscribers.
Locally produced infomercials tend to be the most popular form of leased access programming because of their money-making potential. The process for getting your program on leased access is rather s…
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