As part of the re-farming of TV broadcast auxiliary service between 2025MHz and 2110MHz, the ATSC has published its candidate standard for automatic power control of ENG transmitters over data return link bands. They are seeking comment from both members and non-members.
The FCC set aside two 500kHz swaths of spectrum for digital return link use when TV BAS operations was relocated to 2GHz, with each swath divided into 20 25kHz wide channels. The DRL channels allow communications between ENG receive-only sites and ENG trucks for automatic transmitter power control, and can also be used for two-way data communications, camera intercom and control functions.
The ATSC candidate standard for Automatic Transmitter Power Control (ATPC) includes basic system parameters, modulation type, occupied bandwidth, radiated power, emission mask and frequency stability. Also covered are protocols and signals, plus operational issues such as data transmitted, priority of messages and station identification.
The ATSC says that implementing a DRL will minimize the likelihood of interference and provide greater efficiency since only the necessary ENG output power to achieve a reliable link would be used.
The group expects the candidate standard to progress to the status of Proposed Standard by Dec. 15.
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