President’s Memo

Posted on December 9, 2014 in ATSC News

What a Year!

Each December, as we look ahead eagerly to the New Year, we pause to reflect on the past year. For the ATSC, I can sum up 2014 in three words: “What a Year!”

Not since the original ATSC A/53 Digital TV standard was documented in the mid ‘90s has there been such a robust, participatory and productive period of activity.  The “Year in Review” article in this issue of THE STANDARD highlights much of our progress this year, primarily related to the development of the next-generation ATSC 3.0 digital television standard.

In 2014, we laid out an aggressive timetable for ATSC 3.0 work with key milestones and clear deliverables. Sticking to it will still take a lot of work. Choosing the best technological solution is a given. But this effort will take a commitment to open dialogue, to close collaboration, and in the end, to finding common ground for the greater good of the industry.

Finalizing the Physical Layer of ATSC 3.0 in the months ahead is a top priority. And another major milestone is upon us – with the new Call for Proposals for the advanced audio system that will be a key element of the new standard. See more details in this issue of THE STANDARD.

I’d like to take this opportunity to congratulate Cox Media’s Dave Siegler on being re-elected to serve on the ATSC board of directors.  For the remaining open board seat, members will receive a ballot shortly for a run-off election among the candidates.

Wrapping up the year, as proud as I am of our progress in 2014, I am even more excited about the year ahead. With the continued strong support and active participation of our members, it promises to be a landmark year as we establish the core foundation for the future of broadcast television.

Best wishes to you and yours during this joyous holiday season!

Mark Richer, ATSC President

Posted in ATSC News