Groups to create digital TV center

The executive committees of the National Association of Broadcasters and Association for Maximum Service Television tentatively approved the creation of a broadcast technology center to oversee improvements of the nation’s digital TV system. Final approval is expected later this spring.

XM Rock in orbit

XM Satellite Radio successfully launched its first satellite, XM Rock. Its first signals were captured by a ground station in Australia on March 18 at 6:43 p.m. (ET). XM will create and package up to 100 channels of digital-quality music, news, sports, talk, comedy and children’s programming. Investors include DirecTV and Clear Channel Communications.

DoubleClick trims work force

Digital marketing solutions company DoubleClick will cut its work force by 10 percent (205 jobs) by the end of the second quarter, focusing on reductions of its media business.