COLUMBUS, OHIO: WCMH-TV is now the first Media General station to launch Mobile DTV. The NBC affiliate started broadcasting the ATSC M/H signal of the primary feed on Sept. 23, Media General said in a statement today.
“Our greatest strength is that we have the right local content for our marketplaces,” Marshall N. Morton, president and CEO of Media General, said, “Mobile DTV is an important new way to extend our reach and deliver this content to our viewers.... We look forward to launching Mobile DTV in as many as five to seven additional television markets in the coming months.”
In the coming months, WCMH expects to provide unique graphics for the mobile stream and allow for spot advertising insertions much like cable systems do today.
The Richmond, Va., media company has 18 network-affiliate TV stations in 10 states plus multiple Web and print properties. It’s a member of a joint venture formed earlier this year to coordinate and promote mobile broadcast TV service.
Media General announced its intent to launch Mobile DTV service across the station group in June. WFLA-TV, its station in Tampa, Fla., is also scheduled to launch ATSC M/H in this quarter.
-- Deborah D. McAdams
See...
September 14, 2010: “Mobile DTV Users Watch More Local Content”
The proof of Mobile DTV’s in the using: organizers of the Washington, D.C. showcase say it’s driving local content.
June 16, 2010:“Mobile DTV Launch Planned in Media General Markets”
Media General announced its initial mobile DTV roll-out schedule today.
June 8, 2010: “Broadcast Consortium Selects Executives to Lead ‘Mobile Content Venture’”<
“Mobile Content Venture” is the official name of the initiative launched by 12 broadcast groups during the NAB Show in April.
May 27, 2010: “Mobile DTV Runs Up Against Analog Tuner Requirement
The FCC has agreed to consider waiving its dual-tuner requirement for mobile DTV devices.
May 11, 2010: “Mobile DTV Showcase Underway in D.C.”
The intent is to get receivers into the hands of a select group of individuals to draw attention to the free service.
April 14, 2010: “Twelve Broadcast Companies Form JV for National Mobile DTV
The venture is designed to complement the FCC’s National Broadband Initiative by giving consumers mobile access to video content while reducing congestion of the nation’s wireless broadband infrastructure.
