Belo TVs Add DASDEC-II For Emergency Messaging

Belo Corp. has standardized on Digital Alert Systems’ DASDEC-II digital EAS/CAP encoder/decoder across all their TV stations. The network-centric DASDEC-II emergency messaging system, an FCC-certified EAS management  platform that is CAP-compatible and integrates smoothly with Belo’s BTi workflow solution.

“After extensive analysis, we selected the DASDEC-II system for our enterprise-wide EAS/CAP implementation,” said Reed Wilson, executive director of technology at Belo. “The DASDEC-II came through not only with the CAP compatibility we required, but also with the flexibility to accommodate new requirements as CAP evolves. DAS worked closely with us to make sure that the systems were configured correctly for our air paths and that they operate smoothly with our existing systems. The seamless interface between the DASDEC-II and our BTi system allows Belo stations to get critical emergency messages on-air automatically.”

DASDEC-II improves on the earlier version of the platform by leveraging common information exchange protocols and offering the industry’s broadest range of physical connections and third-party interfaces. Broadcast station personnel on an IP network can use any standard Web browser on virtually any Web-enabled device to view, change, or activate DASDEC functions from anywhere. Features including internal receiver capabilities, e-mail notification and an easily configurable user interface bring Belo greater utility while easing ongoing maintenance requirements.

At facilities managing more than one broadcast station or channel, Belo is using Digital Alert Systems’ MultiStation software to simplify EAS operations. From a central location and interface, staff can schedule the appropriate alert to air on each channel at an appropriate time, without interrupting critical programs. An integrated reporting function provides regular reports and helps Belo engineering staff to ensure that FCC and other operational requirements are being met for each market.