Pentagon Is Not Seeking to Reopen DTV Transmission Standard, Says CEA

Arlington, VA January 14, 2000 - The following statement was issued today by consumer Electronics Association (CEA) President and CEO Gary Shapiro regarding yesterday's meeting between CEA, consumer electronics manufacturers, broadcasters and senior officials of the U.S. Department of Defense to discuss issues related to the transmission and reception of digital content:
"Yesterday, the consumer Electronics Association joined representatives of the National Association of Broadcasters, consumer electronics manufacturers and other parties involved in the transition to digital television (DTV) to meet with U.S. Department of Defense officials. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the unique needs of the U.S. military regarding the transmission and reception of digital video, audio and data. Specifically, we met to discuss how the current U.S. transmission standard for digital television (DTV) -- 8VSB -- can meet these needs.
"During our discussions, the Pentagon made it clear that it has no desire to revisit the 8VSB transmission standard adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and that it is not calling on the FCC to reopen the transmission standard debate.
We look forward to continuing to work with the Department of Defense to ensure that the unique needs of the military are considered as the U.S. transition to DTV continues and as the consumer electronics industry develops new technologies. We strongly believe that VSB can meet the Pentagonís requirements for digital transmissions. The consumer electronics industry remains committed to helping the Department of Defense meet its needs through commercial products to the greatest extent possible."