A multicast mirage (or, why America is not Britain)
June 11th, 2006Multicasts, the additional broadcast channels now sprouting up thanks to digital TV, are a frequent topic here at DTV Facts. You know all about them, sure. But remember, dear reader: you are part of a media-savvy elite. (You’re smart. That’s why I like you. That and your smile.)
Most viewers have never heard of multicasts, of course. But now the mass-audience phenomenon known as the New York Times has a Sunday article about multicasting, currently in the headlines because FCC Chairman Kevin Martin intends to make cable systems carry the channels, whether they want to or not (and mostly it’s not).
Pointing to the explosion of new channels in Britain, the article holds out the tantalizing possibility that U.S. viewers will soon enjoy 30-plus over-the-air channels for free. Alas, it’s probably a mirage.
Why? First, let’s talk about Britain. Say what you will about the food, the UK is the poster child for successful implementation of digital TV. The burgeoning variety of channels, extensively promoted under the Freeview name, has led to faster adoption of broadcast digital TV in the UK and given pay-TV a run for its money. That’s unlikely to happen here, for two reasons in particular:
• In the U.S. (unlike Britain), the increasing prevalence of HDTV broadcasts limits the spectrum available for multicasts—something the Times never mentions.
• Getting acceptable over-the-air digital TV reception presents more of a challenge in the U.S., because of our ATSC broadcast standard. (Britain uses DVB.) Many Americans will need rooftop antennas, for example, to reliably receive digital broadcasts. Tuner technology is said to be improving, however, which may lead to better reception for more viewers. (USDTV, as the article mentioned, is rolling out a digital pay-TV service delivered over the air in a few cities. If their product succeeds, it may bode well for free multicast channels.)
At any rate, we will see many more multicast offerings (and, perhaps, fewer full-strength HD broadcasts) if cable carriage is mandated.
Earlier:
• Will TV’s new rules serve big players or public?
• FCC can rule on multicasts, Stevens now says
• FCC chair’s multicast plan draws more fire from Congress
• Link: New York Times