ATSC Sees Mobile-DTV Standard by Third Quarter

By Adam Goldberg

The Advanced Television Systems Committee (ATSC) (Booth C8546) expects to have a completed mobile-DTV standard in the third quarter. Mobile DTV has become a major story of this NAB Show, with a host of announcements and technology demonstrations.

“This is exciting, because the technology is moving forward at a rapid pace, and our standards are in sync with the technological developments. Next year at this time, we expect services on-the-air and mobile-DTV receivers available in the marketplace,” says ATSC President Mark Richer.

The pavilion has demonstrations from many mobile-DTV supporters, including a live demonstration of mobile DTV by Axcera and prototype receivers by LG Electronics.

Also at the ATSC Mobile DTV pavilion, Dell Inc. has announced the Inspiron Mini 10 with integrated digital television antennas and receivers. Beginning in May, the Mini 10 will be available with integrated DVB-T reception in more than 20 DVB countries. In June, they will be available in the U.S. with integrated ATSC reception capability. Later this summer, they will be available in China, Japan, and Brazil as well. Depending on configuration, pricing will be $350-$450 including GPS, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 3G cellular data modems.