w w w . t e c h n i c o l o r . c o m / m c s
Page 110
16.1
Introduction
This document describes the process and procedures for integrating the ATSC-8 product with
the COM2000 digital head-end system. The ATSC-8, available from Technicolor, will allow for
the reception of over-the-air broadcasts of digital broadcasts and output of this content over an
Internet Protocol (IP) output. Used in combination with a COM2000 system containing a
QAM6 EdgeQAM, this IP output can be modulated over a digital QAM network in combination
with DIRECTV premium programming if COM46 or COM46-FLX receivers are used.
16.2
Over-the-Air Broadcasts
ATSC replaced NTSC broadcasts in the US in 2009 and is the primary transmission for local
digital broadcasts of major network stations. ATSC signals use the same 6MHz bandwidth as
analog NTSC television channels, but are able to provide many programs within this digital
broadcast contained on sub-channels. For instance, many broadcasters will have a main channel
located in the .1 sub-channel, and provide other secondary channels on .2 and .3 sub-channels.
Terrestrial broadcasters use an 8VSB modulation to carry 19.39Mbit/s, typically containing
MPEG2 encoded content.
16.3
Advantages of ATSC Broadcast Channels
ATSC broadcasts don’t require any content protection to be added when they are re-
broadcast in a local cable environment. This allows providers to deliver HD programming
“in-the-clear” to TVs. Combined with the COM24-FLX card providing DIRECTV SD
programming, also “in-the-clear”, an entire channel ring could be set up with mixed HD and
SD programming.
ATSC broadcasts are available for free in nearly every US city and only require a simple
antenna to receive. To see if ATSC broadcasts are available in your area, you can visit
http://dtv.gov/stationlist.htm
and search on your zip code.
Most major local networks broadcast a second or third local channel which contains
important weather related content, local sports, and secondary programming of value to that
local market. These secondary channels are not typically available on satellite or cable
broadcasts.
