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Tegna Inc. today announced it has partnered with GatesAir on the technological infrastructure for the launch of NextGen TV, or ATSC 3.0, in Seattle-Tacoma, Wash.
Pending final FCC approvals, Tegna’s independent KONG plans to begin NextGen TV broadcasts for itself and co-owned NBC affiliate KING in early December, with KONG serving as the host, or lighthouse station.
“The transition to NextGen TV requires cooperation from all stakeholders as we begin shaping the future of local broadcast television in Seattle and across Tegna markets,” said Kurt Rao, Tegna senior vice president and chief technology officer. “GatesAir has been a valued partner in this process, and we’re proud to work with their team to bring NextGen TV to our Seattle audience.”
“In addition to being one of the top media markets in the United States, the Seattle community has a rich history of innovation and entrepreneurialism,” said Jim Rose, president-GM of KING 5 Media Group, which includes the two stations. “Seattle was a natural choice to be one of the early adopters of NextGen TV technology, and we look forward to its potential to create a more enriching experience for our viewers.”
GatesAir will supply its Maxiva ULXTE-30 liquid-cooled transmitter to support over-the-air transmission of the NextGen TV signal. The ULXTE-30 will be equipped with GatesAir’s Maxiva XTE exciter to power Tegna’s NextGen TV broadcasts as part of the Seattle Lighthouse initiative. GatesAir will also provide installation and commissioning support leading up to the early December launch.
“GatesAir’s high-efficiency transmitters are