Updating the ATSC TV standard to allow for advanced compression...

prepared remarks. “Any new system will need to have a companion transition plan that takes broadcasters, manufacturers and especially consumers into account so they can benefit from the new system in a manageable way,” he said. “I know that’s not the issue now, but if a move to a next-generation system is eventually seriously contemplated, the transition plan will be a make-or-break issue,” Smith said. “We are fast moving past the age of linear television … into a new world that is on-demand, interactive, Internet-enabled and three dimensional,” he said. “Finding a way for broadcasters to take part in that new world isn’t optional. It’s a necessity in order to stay competitive with other media.” Smith said he understands that the ATSC technology is 15 years old, and “a transmission system designed with today’s technology could do a lot more.” Broadcasters need to understand how much more can be done “so we can make a judgment as to whether it’s ultimately worth it to migrate to a new system,” Smith said. Stations will also need spectrum to continue to serve viewers, he said. “It’s the necessary ingredient,” he said, “so we'll continue to fight to ensure broadcasters have the spectrum they need."