Sinclair VP Mark Hyman reports that 49 broadcast groups representing over 761 stations have expressed concern with the 8-VSB DTV modulation standard, with more than 400 stations backing Sinclair's FCC petition. Hyman outlines ongoing FCC meetings, the Baltimore side-by-side modulation tests, and growing Congressional and press attention to the DTV standard dispute.
OCTOBER 29, 1999
From: Mark Hyman, Sinclair VP, Corporate Relations
To: DTV Support Group
Introduction.
There is a lot of information, some of it inaccurate, that is in the public domain regarding the DTV modulation issue. Allow me to set the record straight and bring you up-to-date.
Petitions Support.
As of this morning (10/29/99), I have personally spoken with 102 broadcast organizations. Forty-nine groups representing 761 stations and related broadcast businesses have indicated their concern with and/or desire for closer scrutiny of the current DTV modulation standard (8-VSB). Over 400 stations have indicated their support for the "Broadcasters' Petition" that was originally filed by Sinclair. Several other groups representing approximately 130 stations have indicated their support for the broadcasters' petition, but are remaining silent (for the timebeing) due to a variety of reasons such as contested proceedings at the FCC, pending transactions, etc.
Others have informed us they may or will file separate petitions much like the original broadcasters' petition (e.g. Granite, Paxson). Acme and The WB Network are publicly calling for independent tests of 8-VSB and America's Public Television Stations (APTS) has informed us they will file a petition that calls for independent tests and selection of only one of the competing standards. PBS may file a similar petition as APTS' or may join the APTS petition. Clearly, there is concern among approximately one-half of the nation's commercial and non-commercial broadcasters that this issue needs to be properly resolved. Perhaps most importantly, we are not aware of a single broadcast station which has publicly opposed the petitions.
Technical information resource.
The Sinclair website (www.sbgi.net) has considerable technical and layman's information for your referral. A recent addition to the website is the "Frequently Asked Questions" which I ask interested parties to read at your convenience.
Media coverage.
This matter has garnered widespread trade press and mainstream press attention and it continues to grow. Most recently (Oct 27th), USA TODAY had a nearly full page story devoted to the progress of DTV, including this matter, and BUSINESS WEEK magazine ran a story in the Oct 25th edition. Additional press stories are forthcoming.
Further tests.
To date, the "Baltimore Test" is the only U.S. side-by-side comparison of the competing standards and the only known tests that have been open to public scrutiny. Over 150 engineers, broadcasters, journalists, members of Congress, staff & FCC officials observed these tests over a period of approximately 8 weeks. There are rumors of various entities conducting "secret" tests. I would caution anyone from focusing excessive attention on tests that are conducted in secrecy without the benefit of public review.
Federal Communications Commission.
We understand the FCC will not have the "Broadcasters' Petition" put out for public comment until after they have met with us. We have meetings scheduled for the first week of November and we anticipate getting a barometer of their views on this matter. We further understand that several offices on the 8th floor are actively engaged in this matter and we view that as a very positive sign.
Capitol Hill.
Although several members of Congress and staff witnessed the Baltimore tests, we extended offers to attend as a matter of courtesy. We view resolution of this matter through Federal legislative action as the "court of last resort."
Progress report.
The most important element is open, honest discussion of the facts. Over 750 broadcast stations have been able to work together to achieve critical mass on an issue that is of utmost importance to their businesses without being unduly swayed by industries, outside groups and trade associations that may not have our industry's best interests at heart.
As always, feel free to contact us at anytime to get all of your questions answered. The facts are clear and we want you to be fully informed. Mark Aitken (410.662.1425; e-mail: [email protected]) is available for technical issues and I can address the political/regulatory matters (410.568.1565; e-mail: [email protected]).
Thank you.
