Broadcasting is gradually shifting from an old over-the-air ATSC 1.0 service to ATSC 3.0 and now it’s available through five stations in Reno, Nevada.
KNSN-TV will host ATSC 3.0 for all participating stations in the market, including KOLO-TV, KTVN, KRXI-TV, KRNV-DT, and KNSN-TV, according to TVTech. These stations are affiliates of ABC, CBS, FOX, NBC, and MyNet.
BitPath, a wireless network and joint venture between Sinclair and Nexstar, coordinated the launch alongside the broadcasters. The company also made its NavPath and BitPoint navigation systems available to Reno’s first responders for free.
NextGen TV’s third generation of digital television technology enhances broadcast with an internet connection for a better viewing experience. Not only can you watch films and sports with a crisper image and better sound quality, but ATSC 3.0 also offers an easy way to get breaking news and emergency alerts.
The Federal Communications Commission ruled last April to end ATSC 1.0 broadcasts, although there’s no end date scheduled yet. Until then, stations that offer ATSC 3.0 must also stream ATSC 1.0. Public broadcasters cover 97% of the country using ATSC 1.0.
ATSC 3.0 is slowly rolling out across the country and is now available in 70 cities. You’ll need a built-in or external antenna and a NextGen TV supported television, such as models from LG Electronics, Samsung, Sony, and Hisense.
Want to know if NextGen is available in your area? Enter your location into their coverage map. You’ll also find a complete list of cities offering ATSC 3.0.