The ASTC 3.0 standard, commonly known as “NextGen TV” is the first major upgrade in broadcast TV since the transition to digital broadcasting (DTV) in 2009. NextGen TV is an Internet Protocol (IP) based system, which means it can carry internet content and services alongside the traditional over-the-air broadcast signal. The standard will enable never-before-available interactive features like video-on-demand and advanced emergency alerts for broadcast TV, all delivered free with an over-the-air antenna. NextGen TV signals will be stronger and will transmit over greater distances and deeper into buildings, with higher-quality picture and better sound.
ATSC 3.0 was developed by the Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC), an international nonprofit organization that coordinates television technical standards. The new system provides more capability and flexibility than previous generations of terrestrial broadcasting but is not compatible with the current ATSC 1.0 system. To provide continuity of service, as viewers get ATSC 3.0-compatible televisions and other receivers, U.S. television stations will have to broadcast in both ATSC 1 and ATSC 3 during the transition.
CPB is working with America’s Public Television Stations (APTS) and PBS to ensure that public television stations understand the capabilities of ATSC 3.0 to best serve their communities and to ensure continuity of service during the transition. CPB’s goal is to ensure all Americans continue to have access to public media’s educational programs, trusted news and public safety information services. CPB seeks to support the efforts of public media stations and producers to make innovative use of broadcast, internet and mobile platforms to serve audiences wherever, whenever and however they use, share and create media.
CPB has commissioned white papers and is holding a series of webinars to help station executives and their staff members understand ATSC 3.0, plan for the transition, explore business models and address logistical and technical challenges specific to public television.
White Papers
ATSC 3 Digital Television Implementation for Public Television (January 2018)
NextGen TV Considerations for Public Media (June 2019)
Webinars
CPB is holding a series of webinars to help stations understand and prepare for the ATSC 3.0 transition.
- Considering Transitioning to NextGen TV? Ask the Experts, was held on Wednesday, November 20, 2019 (Stream recording).
- ATSC 3.0 and What It Means for Your Station, was held on Thursday, April 25, 2019. (Stream recording).
- ATSC 3.0: Next Steps in Next General Television, was held on Thursday, November 30, 2017. (Stream recording/View transcript).
For questions, please contact NextGenTV@cpb.org
Other Resources
National Association of Broadcasters (NAB)
NAB Next Generation Television (ATSC 3.0) Station Transition Guide
FCC Authorization of Next Generation TV Transmission Standard, November 16, 2017