National Security Applications of ATSC 3.0

BPS ATSC 3.0 Broadcast Emission Time Stabilization System Proof-Of-Concept  - $15

The ATSC 3.0 NextGen TV standard defines a precise time stamp of the emission time of each broadcast frame. The time stamp, along with the transmitting antenna location, can be used to determine the distance of the receiver from the transmitter. If at least three such ATSC 3.0 transmissions are available in an area, these broadcasts can be used as a precise positioning system, called a Broadcast Positioning System (BPS) [1], which can be used as a backup system for the Global Positioning System (GPS).

However, providing a precise time stamp is technically challenging due to various delays and variability in the broadcast transmission studio processing chain. This paper describes a proof-of-concept system, developed by multiple partner companies under the direction of NAB Pilot, that provides a closed loop time stabilization system. The paper explores the techniques used to measure the broadcast signal’s emission time and to compensate for the processing chain timing variability stabilizing the emission time stamp. The paper also describes the lessons learned and the barriers to further improve the timing accuracy of the BPS system.

Mark T. Corl | Triveni Digital, Inc | Princeton, New Jersey, United States
Vladimir Anishchenko | Avateq Corp. | Markham, Ontario, Canada
Tariq Mondal | National Association of Broadcasters | Wasington, District of Columbia, United States

Delivering Traceable Reference Time for ATSC 3.0-Based Broadcast Positioning System (BPS) - $15

Delivering accurate and traceable time is important for the operation of critical infrastructure industries. A BPS-enabled ATSC 3.0 TV station can meet the requirements of critical infrastructure industries by transmitting precise time. One of the requirements to do so is to have reliable, robust, and accurate timing sources at the TV stations. This paper describes how a variety of timing sources can be used at TV stations for reference. The paper also outlines how BPS-enabled ATSC 3.0 TV stations can evolve into a self-synchronizing mesh network for timing signals.

Patrick Diamond | Diamond Consulting | Ayer, MassachUnited Statesetts, United States
Tariq Mondal | National Association of Broadcasters | Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Robert D. Weller | National Association of Broadcasters | Washington, District of Columbia, United States
Andrew Hansen | Volpe Center | Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States

How NextGen Broadcasting Improves Public Safety and Community Security by Providing Advanced Emergency Information Service - $15

Broadcast television has always done an excellent job of entertaining, educating, and informing us; however, the recent technological advancements in broadcasting that now brings consumers content via multiple platforms and devices can also be leveraged to provide critical, lifesaving emergency information in real time during local, state, or federal crisis situations. The ATSC 3.0 television standard, powered by NextGen Broadcast deployment, combined with its new Internet Protocol functions, can provide first responders and emergency managers with advanced methods to deliver dramatically improved interactive content and targeted Advanced Emergency Information (AEI) alerting to citizens, not just on their televisions, but also to any other device within range of a broadcast television signal or connected to the Internet.

First responders and emergency managers have always battled an array of emergency scenarios, but today they are coming quicker and with much greater intensity whether it be the result of a natural disaster, a technological disaster (e.g., railroad derailment with chemical spill) or a pandemic. Complicating today’s task of providing critical messaging and information during emergency events is the challenge of reaching an ever-shifting population demographic that now receives its information from a growing variety of sources and devices. This paper explores how ATSC 3.0 and NextGen Broadcasting enhancements can significantly improve how this task is performed for the betterment of community safety.

Niem Dang | Sinclair Broadcast Group | Hunt Valley, Maryland, United States
Kevin Wong | Sinclair Broadcast Group | Hunt Valley, Maryland, United States