The ATSC – the US association behind digital TV implementation in North America – has given details of the new ATSC 2.0 standard that introduces a clutch of internet related features.
The association has formed two Implementation Teams, one for ATSC 2.0, and a second for the Mobile Emergency Alert System (M-EAS).
“We want to keep the ATSC standard relevant and up-to-date for broadcasters and consumer device manufacturers. The introduction of Implementation Teams for both ATSC 2.0 and M-EAS underscores our progress and will help drive next-generation technologies toward marketplace introduction,” said ATSC president Mark Richer.
The Implementation Teams are drawn from companies already developing enhancements to digital TV broadcast standard. Their tasks include market studies, prototype development, simulations, demonstrations, interoperability “plugfest” testing, field trials, compliance, certification, branding, marketing and promotion.
ATSC 2.0 will be backwards compatible and feature a slate of new capabilities including Internet-related features, advanced video coding, conditional access and enhanced service guides for TV broadcasters.
ATSC 2.0 also will include the capabilities of the recently approved ATSC A/103 “NonReal-Time” (NRT) standard that allows broadcasters to deliver file-based content, including programs and clips to both fixed location and Mobile DTV receivers. NRT includes the ability to deliver content on demand.
“The overarching goal of ATSC 2.0 is to create new value for viewers, consumer electronics manufacturers, and broadcasters. To that end the ATSC 2.0 Implementation Team provides a venue for industry discussions of issues related to commercialization of the emerging ATSC 2.0 Standard. The 2.0 Implementation Team may address business and operational requirements for the successful roll-out of ATSC 2.0, which is nearing final standardization,” Richer explained.
David Siegler of Cox Media will serve as chairman of the ATSC 2.0 Implementation Team. ATSC 2.0 is expected to become a Candidate Standard in the second quarter of 2013.
