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Heartland Video Systems, Inc.

Case Study: HVS Unites WLAE/WYES and Launches ATSC 3.0

Overview

Heartland Video Systems (HVS) consolidated New Orleans public broadcasters WLAE-TV and WYES-TV into a single facility and launched ATSC 3.0 on their second transmitter. This project enhanced their broadcast capabilities and operational efficiency. 

Challenge

  • Operational Integration: Merging two independent stations while maintaining their unique identities. 
  • Technological Upgrade: Significant equipment changes required for ATSC 3.0 transition. 
  • Resource Optimization: Efficient use of existing transmitters for both ATSC 1.0 and 3.0.
  • HVS-Managed Transition: Upgrading without external partners like Pearl TV or BitPath. 

Engineering Solution

System Design: 

  • Unified infrastructure: Supported simultaneous ATSC 1.0 and 3.0 broadcasts within one facility. 
  • Transmitter Allocation:
  • WYES Transmitter: Continued ATSC 1.0 broadcast.
  • WLAE Transmitter: Converted to ATSC 3.0.

Equipment Implementation: 

    • Encoding: 
      • Harmonic XOS Advanced Media Processors: High-efficiency encoding for HD and UGH content.
    • Signaling and Metadata: 
      • Triveni Digital Guidebuilder XM: ATSC 3.0 signaling and ROUTE/DASH packaging.
    • Studio-to-Transmitter Links:
      • SAF Tehnika Phoenix G2+ Microwave Systems: Reliable, high capacity STL connections.
    • Networking:
      • Cisco Catalyst Series Switches: High-performance routing and switching.
    • Monitoring and Quality Assurance:
      • Sencore MRD 7000 Decoders: Real-time signal decoding and monitoring.
      • DS Broadcast BGD4100 Demodulators: ATSC 3.0 signal analysis.
      • Sony UHD Broadcast Monitors: High-resolution video monitoring. 
Project Execution:
    • Pre-Configuration and Installation: Equipment customized before delivery and seamlessly integrated.
    • Testing: Ensured compliance with ATSC standards and optimal performance.
    • Training: Provided comprehensive training to station engineers.

Results

    •  Successful ATSC 3.0 Launch: WLAE-TV now broadcast in ATSC 3.0.
    • Enhanced Capabilities: Improved video/audio quality and enabled interactive services.
    • Operational Efficiency: Cost savings through shared resources and streamlined maintenance.
    • Increased Reliability: Robust system design suitable for a region prone to natural disasters.

Conclusion

HVS' engineering expertise enabled WLAE-TV and WYES-TV to seamlessly transition into one plant and launch ATSC 3.0, utilizing advanced equipment and tailored solutions to meet the technical needs of both stations.