- Case Study
WLAE / WYES
HVS consolidated New Orleans public broadcasters WLAE-TV and WYES-TV into a single facility and launched ATSC 3.0 on their second transmitter, enhancing broadcast capabilities and operational efficiency.
Background
About the Project
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.
Solution
Engineering Solution
HVS designed a unified infrastructure supporting simultaneous ATSC 1.0 and 3.0 broadcasts within one facility — WYES transmitter continued ATSC 1.0 broadcast while WLAE transmitter was converted to ATSC 3.0.
- Encoding — Harmonic XOS Advanced Media Processors: High-efficiency encoding for HD and UHD content.
- Signaling & 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.
- Monitoring — Sencore MRD 7000 Decoders: Real-time signal decoding and monitoring.
- Signal Analysis — DS Broadcast BGD4100 Demodulators: ATSC 3.0 signal analysis.
- Video Monitoring — Sony UHD Broadcast Monitors: High-resolution video monitoring.
- Pre-Configuration & Testing: Equipment customized before delivery, seamlessly integrated, and tested for ATSC standards compliance.
- Training: Provided comprehensive training to station engineers.
Outcome
Project Result
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.
Results
- Successful ATSC 3.0 Launch: WLAE-TV now broadcasts 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.