ATSC APPROVES Synchronization Standard for Distributed Transmission

WASHINGTON, D.C., August 19, 2004 – The Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) has approved a standard designed to facilitate the construction of single frequency network (SFN) transmission systems utilizing distributed transmission. The new standard defines the mechanisms for synchronization of transmitters emitting 8-VSB signals in accordance with the ATSC DTV Standard (A/53C). It also provides for adjustment of transmitter timing and other characteristics through additional information carried within the specified packet structure. Distributed transmission involves the use of a separate distribution channel to feed each transmitter in an SFN. This channel can be a conventional studio-to-transmitter link (STL) for distributed transmitters, or it can be a different broadcast channel from that on which the transmitters operate, in the case of distributed translators.

 “Distributed transmission (DTx) holds the potential to greatly improve the coverage and service areas of DTV transmission,” said ATSC President, Mark Richer. Richer further explained that “distributed transmission systems must be carefully implemented, so we (ATSC) are in the process of developing a companion Recommended Practice on the design of synchronized multiple transmitter networks.”

ATSC Standard A/110 can be downloaded from www.atsc.org/standards.html at no charge. This document includes several informative sections that explain the distributed transmission concept in general, and synchronization methods in particular.

The Advanced Television Systems Committee, Inc. is an international, non-profit organization developing voluntary standards for digital television. The ATSC member organizations represent the broadcast, broadcast equipment, motion picture, consumer electronics, computer, cable, satellite, and semiconductor industries.

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Contact: Lisa Hester (202) 872-9160, ATSC