Mark Aitken speaks out on bright future for Mobile ATSC service

While many broadcasters contemplating the launch of Mobile ATSC identify simulcasts of their main channel as the first, logical step to make, the new mobile broadcast service should become much more than simply small TV, says Mark Aitken, director of Advanced Technology for the Sinclair Broadcast Group.

Aitken sees Mobile ATSC as a means of building new relationships with viewers and partners alike to offer services and interactivity that have until recently only been the dream of broadcasters.

Making this dream a reality is a collection of new and newly re-invigorated technology. For example, Aitken says, circular polarization — a technology that has been available for years but seen limited implementation — will play an important part in the deployment of some of Sinclair’s Mobile ATSC channels.

Aitken discusses CP and other new technologies as well as the business opportunities for Mobile ATSC in this, the second part of our two-part interview. For part one of Aitken’s interview, visit: broadcastengineering.com/products/mpeg-encoding-mobile-atsc-possible-0616/index.html.

Phil Kurz

Phil Kurz is a contributing editor to TV Tech. He has written about TV and video technology for more than 30 years and served as editor of three leading industry magazines. He earned a Bachelor of Journalism and a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Missouri-Columbia School of Journalism.