Joint MSTV/NAB Non-Binding Resolution on COFDM vs. 8-VSB Standard

To: VSB and COFDM Technical Groups

The attached non binding resolution was just approved by the Joint
MSTV/NAB/Steering Committee meeting by a vote of 26-3. The resolution was approved after considerable discussion of a last minute submission by Sinclair of new field tests they conducted yesterday to show that prefiltering of the COFDM receiver would change the outcome of the study by conducting measurements of seven sites. Should you have any questions, I will be back in the office on Wednesday

Victor Tawil, MSTV

With the support of 30 major broadcast organizations and the oversight of technical committees consisting of some 25 engineers representing all major technical viewpoints, the broadcasting industry concluded a comprehensive, objective and expedited series of studies and tests to determine whether COFDM should be added to the current 8-VSB standard.

We conclude that there is insufficient evidence to add COFDM and we therefore reaffirm our endorsement of the VSB standard.

We also conclude that there is an urgent need for swift and dramatic improvement in the performance of the present U.S. digital television system.

We therefore will take all necessary steps to promote the rapid improvement of VSB technologies and other enhancements to digital television and direct the staffs to develop a plan and promptly submit it to the Boards.

See Sinclair's Comments