Dish Joins With Broadcasters On 3.0 Test

Charlie Ergen’s Dish Network is usually knocking heads with broadcasters over retransmission consent fees. But in Dallas, the satellite operator is working with leading broadcasters in developing ATSC 3.0, the new FCC-authorized broadcasting standard.

Under the aegis of Spectrum Co., the partnership of Sinclair and Nexstar, Dish is testing the transmission and reception capabilities of 3.0 using a swathe of its own 700 MHz E Block spectrum (former TV ch. 56) and Spectrum Co.’s 3.0-enabled single frequency network (SFN) in Dallas, according to a joint press release.

“We’re seeking innovative ways of bringing next generation technologies and services, like ATSC 3.0, to American consumers,” said Tom Cullen, Dish EVP of corporate development, in a prepared statement. “This trial helps us not only pursue opportunities with ‘Next Gen’ TV technology, but also identify synergies with our IoT [Internet of Things] and future 5G plans, for example broadcasting data to connected cars.”

Additionally, the Dish spectrum could be used to provide a backchannel for data services that Spectrum Co. hopes to offer, the release says.

Over the years, Dish has accumulated billions of dollars’ worth of spectrum and is looking for ways to monetize it by supplying wireless connectivity for consumer and commercial IoT services.

Spectrum Co. President John Hane said: “Dish’s involvement underscores that ATSC 3.0 is much more than the most transformational upgrade of broadcast television technology in history.

“It’s the foundation of a robust new ecosystem of advanced services. The wireless economy is quickly outgrowing one-size-fits-all solutions. We look forward to working with Dish, broadcasters and others to bring exciting new capabilities online.”

Univision and American Tower are also supplying spectrum and facilities for the Dallas trials.