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Heartland Video Systems, Inc.

Case Study: HVS and KNME - Advancing Broadcast Engineering with ATSC 1.0 and 3.0

Introduction

Since 1958, New Mexico PBS (NMPBS), operating as KNME-TV, has been a leader in public television and broadcast innovation. Facing the challenges of transitioning to next-generation broadcast technologies while optimizing existing systems, KNME partnered with HVS to implement cutting-edge solutions in ATSC 1.0 and ATSC 3.0. 

Challenge

​KNME aimed to:
  • Transition to ATSC 3.0 (NextGen TV): Upgrade infrastructure to support next-gen standards without disrupting existing ATSC 1.0 services.
  • Optimize Spectrum Usage: Combine two stations on a single ATSC 1.0 transmitter.
  • Implement Advanced Technologies: Integrate Modulation and Coding (ModCod) design, High Dynamic Range (HDR), and explore virtual channels.
  • Expand International Content: Test and implement translator services and virtual channels for international news providers like Deutsche Welle.

HVS Solution

Expertise in ATSC Standards


HVS leveraged its deep expertise in both ATSC 1.0 and ATSC 3.0 to develop a seamless transition plan. We ensured compatibility between new and existing systems, allowing KNME to operate both standards concurrently.


Manufacturers-Agnostic Approach 


Our manufacturer-agnostic stance enabled us to select the best equipment from any vendor, ensuring optimal performance and cost-effectiveness tailored to KNME's needs.


Innovation Engineering Solutions

  • ATSC 3.0 Deployment: Facilitated the installation and commissioning of a new ATSC 3.0 transmitter, enabling NextGen TV services with enhanced audio, video, and interactive capabilities. 
  • Spectrum Optimization: Engineered the combination of two stations onto a single ATSC 1.0 transmitter, reducing operational costs and freeing up spectrum for additional services.
  • ModCod Design and HDR Implementation: Improved signal quality and bandwidth efficiency through advanced ModCod schemes and enhanced visual quality with HDR technology.
  • Virtual Channels and Translator Testing: Enabled the provision of international content by testing and implementing virtual channels and ensuring reliable signal propagation through extensive translator testing. 
  • Educational Datacasting: Deployed SpectraRep's EduCast to deliver educational content via ATSC 3.0, and reach students without broadband access.

Rigorous Lab Testing


All solutions were thoroughly tested in our in-house lab to ensure reliability and performance before deployment, minimizing risk and ensuring seamless integration. 

Results

    • Successful ATSC 3.0 Transition: KNME now offers NextGen TV services while maintaining ATSC 1.0 broadcast.
    • Enhanced Efficiency: Combining stations on a single transmitter optimized spectrum use and reduced costs.
    • Improved Broadcast Quality: Advanced ModCod and HDR technologies enhanced signal quality and viewer experience.
    • Expanded Content Offerings: International news and educational content reached wider audiences through virtual channels and datacasting.
    • Leadership in Innovation: KNME reinforced its position as an industry leader, setting a benchmark for other public television stations.

Conclusion

HVS provided KNME with innovative, customized engineering solutions, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in broadcast technology. Our expertise in ATSC standards, creative problem-solving, and dedication to quality helped KNME achieve its goals and efficiency and effectively.