NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0)

NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0): An Overview

In 2009, The ASTX 3.0 or commonly known as NextGen TV was introduced as the first major upgrade in broadcast TV since the transition to digital broadcasting TV. It is the first major overhaul to the Advanced Television Systems Committee’s standard for sending and receiving over-the-air (OTA) signals since the group first introduced ATSC 1.0 back in 1996. Unlike its predecessor, the ATSC 2.0, NextGen TV is capable of 4K and HDR picture resolutions and advanced Dolby audio wherewithal, among other features.

In addition, new ATSC 3.0 standard, called “NextGen TV,” broadcasters have an opportunity to integrate new features into IP-based TV to compete with the ever-increasing Internet-driven media landscape. It is designed to be flexible; allowing broadcasters to deliver small screen content up to UHDTV to mobile and/or fixed receivers.

The NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) Difference

The transition from ATSC 1.0 to ATSC 3.0 was dramatically different due to its specific design that utilizes the most efficient technologies, including error correction coding, compression algorithms, and modulation and coding schemes. The most important requirement for broadcasting stations that convert to ATSC 3.0 is to have at least one free over-the-air video programming stream. Plus, it is also important for stations not to derogate the quality of their programming stream through their ancillary and supplemental services.

Eventually, all stations in the market will only transmit ATSC 3.0 signals. ATSC 3.0 has many capabilities and features since it is more enhanced than its predecessors. With NextGen TV, users can expect the following benefits:

  • Optimized compression and statistical multiplexing with enhanced PQ to deliver seamless, high-quality experiences such as 4K/8K, HDR, WCG and HFR.
  • Supports theater-like audio with up to seven speakers to create an immersive subscriber experience.
  • Free over-the-air TV that will combine IP-based programming with the traditional broadcast video we receive today. NextGen TV transmissions are extremely efficient, making it easier for you to receive free over-the-air signals with a TV antenna, especially useful for indoor or basement applications.
  • Advanced emergency alerts with enhanced graphics with hyperlocal relevance and wake-up device features. This means the emergency alert will wake up your TV or smartphone to give you enough time to react to the warning.
  • Mobile capability, virtually everywhere, means passengers will be able to watch broadcast TV in your car while you’re on the road.
  • Automatic notifications when additional, related programming is available via over-the-top services.
  • Interactive alerts with rich media, images and real-time updates based on a viewer’s specific location.

Indeed, ATSC 3.0 introduced improved coverage and signal penetration; it should offer dramatically better performance in situations like a moving vehicle. It also allows for targeted, personalized advertising, which means the broadcast world will have combined the digital promise of targeting with the audience support for broadcast, essentially changing the playing field in the broadcast versus streaming competition.

Why NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0) Matters

NextGen TV is IP-based, so in practice, it can be moved around your home just like any internet content can right now. Its signals will be stronger and will transmit over greater distances and deeper into buildings, with higher-quality pictures and better sound. It promises resolutions up to Ultra HD 4K TV, high dynamic range, refresh rates up to 120Hz, better reception at home, and mobile devices. Undoubtedly, ATSC 3.0 proponents continue to remind the industry of new capabilities, opportunities, and advantages.

As technology evolves, users can expect more enhancements from NextGen TV (ATSC 3.0). With its wide array of features and benefits and advanced emergency alerting functions, users can conveniently be informed and entertained, making it a remarkable piece of technology.