Stations in Des Moines, Iowa, have begun broadcasting using the new NextGen TV broadcast-television technology.
The new ATSC 3.0 format is designed to provide a sharper picture, better audio and access to more programming, including internet-based content. The signal can be received on mobile devices and can also carry other digital services.
In Des Moines, Sinclair Broadcast Group’s KDSM has converted to ATSC 3.0 transmissions. ATSC 3.0 can carry multiple programming streams and KDSM is broadcasting the programming from Hearst Television’s KCCI, Nexstar Media Group’s WHO and Iowa PBS’s KDIN, in addition to its own signal.
All of the stations’ programming continues to be available via the current ATSC 1.0 digital broadcast technology, so people who haven’t bought NextGen sets can continue to watch.
BitPath, which is developing new data broadcasting services, led the planning process and coordinated efforts across the four television stations. BitPath will make its NavPath and BitPoint precise navigation and positioning services available at no charge to Iowa’s first responders.
NextGen TV is now on the air in more than 50 markets. ■
