NORTH AMERICAN BROADCASTERS ASSOCIATION | NOVEMBER, 2013

www.nabanet.com

► A Farewell Chat A Farewell Chat with CNN and with CNN and ISOG’s Dick Tauber ISOG’s Dick Tauber ► Secretariat Office th Closed on November 11 How does one go from being a Dean of Students pretty. I found that if you did all the right moves ► Director General’s Report in small-town NY State to being a satellite desk and plugged things together in the right way, then trainee at a fledgling cable network in Atlanta? you got this beautiful storybook called theatre. In ► NABA Featured in Canada’s Broadcast Dialogue Magazine I am the perfect example of: “it’s CNN’s case, it was live 24-hour not who you are, but who you news pictures with sound for tele- ► Congratulations to Shaw Media / Global TV on Murrow know,” and also a case of: “being vision! (Audio was often a hang Award in the right place at the right up!) And so began my tenure. ► WEA Messages and PBS time.” In my second year at Dar- WARN: An Emergency By- row School, I was assigned a What sticks out about those pass for Cellular number of students who I men- early CNN years? ► NABA Members & Issues tored, including a terrific kid For over ten years it was always a in the News named Orrin Schonfeld, whose bit of a struggle until the 1991 ► Looking Ahead — Key Dates father – Reese Schonfeld – I got Gulf War. Some earlier success and Upcoming Events to know quite well. Reese had a had been had with the Space company in New York called Shuttle Challenger explosion as Independent Television News we were the only ones that broad- NABAcaster Association (ITNA) which acted casted it live. Also, ‘Baby Jes- is published by and for members as a poor man’s Reuters. In the sica’ in the Texas well was an- of the North American Broadcasters other big moment for CNN and it Association ( NABA ) 1970s when Ted Turner was thinking about starting a 24-hour helped cement our affiliate agree- P.O. Box 500, Station A cable news channel he consulted ments with local stations around Toronto, ON M5W 1E6 with Reese and eventually con- the country. Those affiliate deals Canada Tel.: +1 416-598-9877 vinced him to give-up ITNA and head up CNN. were made outside of their primary network af- Fax: +1 416-598-9774 At roughly the same time my wife and I decided it filiations and were thereby fairly ground-breaking Email: [email protected] may be time to start something new and Orrin sug- at the time. I wouldn’t say things were done any gested I call his dad, now in Atlanta as President of better now or then, but there were certainly less President Robert Briskman CNN. Immediately, two questions ran through my choices for sending news footage back and some- head... “What’s cable?” and “Who’s Ted Turner?” times only one way to get things on people’s Director General I quickly learned. screens, whereas now there can be a variety. Michael McEwen Things were simpler, but more of a foot race at the

Editor Reese brought me to Atlanta and was showing me same time. More choices often means more deci- Jason Paris around CNN where by coincidence I also recon- sion-making too. So no better, just different. nected with a former college mate – Rick Brown – Staff who was starting the CNN Satellite Desk. It just Part of your current role at CNN involves in- Anh Ngo vestigating newly developed systems and tech- Roxanne Riess so happened he needed to fill a seat at the desk Vineet Mathur within 30 days. So despite not knowing anything nologies for use in newsgathering. With that in about satellites, I used my experiences in my mind, do you see anything on the horizon that is younger years working the lighting board for off- going to change the game again? NABA-BOD MEETING Broadway productions as a comparison with the Upcoming is what they call HEVC compression work I would be doing with satellites. I began to which is superior to both MPEG-2 and MPEG-4 th December 10 see satellites as stage lights. Basically, there were and with it you get better efficiency on the satel- New York, NY so many “things” up in the sky that generally lite. This means more channels or a broader couldn’t all be up at once, so you had to pick and choice of channels where increased bandwidth can choose the proper connections to make it look be used more efficiently and for better quality. We Continued on next page... NABACASTER | NOVEMBER, 2013

are also coming-up on UHDTV (also of the WBU. As a goal, ISOG wanted to was issued where they encouraged groups known as 4K / 8K) transmissions. I feel have more than one transmission company like the WBU, the ITU, and individual un- both these technologies are about to land at available to choose from. This finally hap- ions to all take significant steps to protect roughly the same time so that the picture pened when PanAm Sat was launched and satellite services and space resources we all quality going into homes will improve sub- CBS first used their Ku-dish services in depend on. For one, we must stop en- stantially. However, this will also require 1989 as the Berlin Wall fell. Other broad- croachment and protect C-band. As for an entire upgrade of systems for both con- casters quickly followed and the industry interference, we must characterize inten- sumers and broadcasters at a time when was changed. tional interference for what it is and penal- some are still just converting from SD to ize those that engage in it. This includes HD. I’m not sure how quickly it will play Any advice for your ISOG successors? piracy as well as deliberate jamming. out, but it is certainly the next step. I also ISOG’s mission statement was purposefully These are new thoughts and language about feel that the quality is going to look much changed a number of years ago to “...by this problem. It is now felt that at the ITU more real and that it will diminish the value satellite or any other means” in recognition level, deliberate jamming should be sepa- of 3D technology. We will see the effects that we were no longer just a satellite trans- rated out and dealt with differently. I think most quickly in sports and some entertain- port group. I would hope and encourage ISOG had a lot to do with getting us to this ment products. News will almost certainly this to continue. I truly believe it is ISOG’s point and for that I’m very, very proud. come later. But wait for next year’s World job to follow all transmission technologies, Cup. And then the Olympics! whether fibre, cellular, over-the-top or IP. What do you feel has been of most value Knocking on the edge of technology is as with regards to CNN / Time Warner’s Will satellites continue to play the role important as ever and things are going to membership in NABA? they do now or will they be diminished? continue to change. ISOG’s responsibility I personally think that sitting down at a The one good thing about satellite is that it is to stay on top of it all, while making it as table with other companies who are doing goes everywhere. While fibre may be in easy and convenient for those that have to what you are doing, even if they are your many places, it costs a certain amount of put the pieces together and move the con- competitors, is hugely important. There are money to get fibre installed in a remote tent back to home base. issues that if we focus on them together, we location and it just does not always pay for are able to achieve results that are benefi- itself, so some companies, including some What is your most proud moment with cial to all. This is one of the primary values big ones, just won’t do it. On a related regard to ISOG’s work? of membership and why I have always been note, ISOG completed a 4K demo test using Some of the committee work that was done, a big supporter of NABA. a full transponder at our Forum in Rio de especially as it related to satellite interfer- Janeiro on November 6th beamed from the ence, is the one focus that has continued for What are your retirement plans? Intelsat earth station in Ellenwood, GA. a number of years and has become more Honestly, I see myself working. I will Right now, with a full transponder you can elaborate and more evolved as it has be- probably do something, just not sure do up to 12 transmission channels. The fact come more of an issue. I’d say the recent whether to get licensed as a consultant or that we are doing a 4K demo and that it will ISOG Resolutions on Carrier ID are a major not. In a perfect world, I’d like to be able require a full transponder is relevant in that achievement. And, I am very gratified to to continue doing some of the things I’m the satellite industry is looking forward to have played a part in the recent ASBU Sat- already involved in, such as WBU-ISOG more capacity being used in the future, not ellite Interference Forum and the Action and RFI-EUI. less. Plan that was produced. What will you miss the most? What will Why was ISOG started? Would it be a stretch then to ask if you you miss the least? When we started in 1985, the partners in could foresee a day when interference I will miss the international meetings and ISOG were the three largest of the World will be a thing of the past? feel now that I probably didn’t take enough Broadcasting Unions – ABU, EBU and the No, unfortunately. It may not be as bad as enjoyment out of being in so many foreign North American broadcasters (then it is, but will likely always exist. It is im- locales. Coincidentally, the travel is also NANBA) and Intelsat (which at the time portant to remember that of all the transmis- what I will miss the least. It’s cramped, was a treaty organization with member sig- sions that occur each year, only 2% of them annoying, and the airplanes are too hot and natory representing their countries). Since encounter interference (of 15,000-20,000 their food too bland. Intelsat was really just a monopoly, ISOG give or take). Of that 2%, it used to be that members were having problems getting our 2% of that was deliberate, but that percent- So we haven’t heard the last of Dick transmissions done. After a meeting with age has recently increased, particularly in Tauber? Intelsat in Washington, DC the North the Middle East where it is now over 9%. I would certainly hope not! Anyway, make American broadcasters formed ISOG, as an At the recent ASBU-hosted meeting in Tu- me an offer! (Or, send money!) international organization under the wings nis, Tunisia on the subject an Action Plan ∎ Secretariat Office Closed on Monday, November 11th

Please note that the NABA/WBU Secretariat Office will be closed on Monday, November 11th in observance of Canada’s Remembrance Day. The office will re-open at 09:00 EST on Tuesday, November 12th.

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with a broad agenda. In addition to all the Director General’s Report IMT interference work and related defense Michael McEwen, NABA of spectrum issues for the JTG 4-5-6-7 leading to WRC-15, the Committee also October has come We look to achieving our goal for a date focused on continuing the work of the File and gone. The from WIPO for a Diplomatic Conference in Exchange & Watermarking Sub-Group and Canadians have 2015 from this December's meeting. created another Sub-Group to review ATSC had their Thanks- 3.0. This latter group will have until Janu- giving and as one If WIPO continues to waffle about a date ary to complete their work, focusing on of our American the LC will need to advise the Board of requirements and how the current work by cousins said to me Directors about options for the future, given ATSC speaks to requirement priorities. "your Thanksgiv- the amount of time and treasure we and Very important indeed as the File Transfer ing is in October other Broadcast Unions have spent on this & Watermarking Sub-Group will now look because it gets so work over the last 15 years. The work that to harmonization of existing technology damned cold in Canada you have nothing to is now underway will help with that discus- that will eventually lead to standardization. be thankful for at the end of November." sion. Partnerships with standards-setting groups Good point. But we do wish all those that and understanding what individual broad- celebrate Thanksgiving at the end of No- A short note on the generosity of our mem- casters are using now and need for the fu- vember a happy celebration even if many of bers. NABA is financed by dues from its ture will be critical to the success of this you live in a climate that has no seasons (he members and those funds provide for the work. Good luck to all. says somewhat bitterly). basic infrastructure, staff, committee man- agement and associated modest projects. I write this in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the NABA has not been without challenges this We very much depend on members for "in- end of the first day of the WBU-ISOG Fo- past month. A lot of our focus has been on kind" services for major projects, special- rum, hosted by TV Globo and the IAB. the Legal Committee and the Broadcaster ized working groups and on occasion a spe- The focus is on the Summer Olympics in Treaty. Apparently WIPO in its wisdom cial assessment for a major study or outside 2016 and the FIFA World Cup next year. put off a decision on the timing of a Diplo- expertise. We have done the latter three And of course lots of discussion about 4K, matic Conference to an Extra-ordinary ses- times this past year with the latest effort for 8K, and UHDTV (or as Tom Gibbon asked sion of the WIPO General Assembly this the Treaty work, which was preceded by “what do we call it?”). Sadly this is Dick coming December 10th. We have spent two studies resulting in contributions to the Tauber's last ISOG as he is retiring at the years making the case for this Conference ITU on C-band / IMT interference. This is end of this year. Dick has been a friend and and a Treaty that better protects our broad- a lot to ask of our membership in a one year a colleague for 25 years and I will miss cast signals in the digital/internet age. We period and I'm grateful for their support. him. Hell we'll all miss him! Please read had hoped the time was right for this deci- the cover interview that NABA’s Senior sion and had spent considerable time and As many of you are aware the Board agreed Coordinator — Jason Paris — conducted resources to realize that outcome. to setting up a full Radio Committee with Dick in this issue, as I have a feeling (NABA-RC) and it will meet by phone No- we haven't seen or heard the last of Dick. Sadly, that was not the case and we find vember 21st (TBC) under the able guidance ourselves having to do more research and of Mike Starling from NPR. We hope this Finally, a big congratulations to our Presi- preparation for the December meeting. All will begin to address the needs of those dent Robert Briskman who launched the of this is crucial to keeping the pressure on, radio members who have been looking for last in a series of six SiriusXM satellites on but it is expensive and we found ourselves their own platform to explore issues unique October 25th. I understand that SiriusXM is in a position where frankly we had run out to their medium. The RC will have its first now good for ten plus years in the satellite of budget. So at the request of the LC, face-to-face at the AGM Event in NYC department; good planning with lots of re- NABA members have contributed to a spe- (Feb. 11-12) next year. dundancy. Over his career Rob has had 32 cial assessment for this work. We have successful satellite launches and not one raised the amount required and that work The TC met in Arlington, VA at PBS on failure. That's called a track record. Well has begun as I write this report. Oct. 29th. Another well attended gathering done Rob!

∎ NABA Featured in Canada’s Broadcast Dialogue Magazine Broadcast Dialogue, a Canadian broadcasting trade magazine, in their November 7 issue has featured an article on NABA written by our Director General, Michael McEwen.

The article not only covers NABA’s recent accomplishments, but also provides a glimpse into the future and the direction in which the or- ganization is heading. The article is available on the magazine’s website, accessible via the following link: http://www.nabanet.com/temp/Broadcast_Dialogue_Nov2013_McEWen_Next_Gen_TV_Radio.pdf

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Congratulations to Shaw Media / Global TV For the first time, a Canadian broadcaster has won the Edward R. Murrow Award in the category of Overall Excellence. A big congratula- tions to the entire Shaw Media / Global TV team, including NABA-RACC member Troy Reeb (Senior VP, News and Station Operations) on accepting the award recently in New York City.

through the open windows of cars stuck in redundant path for the WEA messages to WEA Messages gridlock. any carrier, regardless of size or location. and PBS WARN: The WEA system was designed using one-to Funding provided by the Department of -many cellular broadcast technology that Commerce has allowed PBS’ WARN team An Emergency would have helped that day. Only 90 charac- to develop the technology that integrates Bypass for Cellular ters long, WEA messages are transmitted to broadcast and cellular technologies, to im- cell phones across a different network from plement the extra link between carriers and Aaron Silverman, regular voice and data traffic so they bypass the Federal Emergency Management Communications Director, network congestion. Even if the cellular Agency (FEMA) that Congress and the FCC WARN Project, PBS network is completely jammed, the lifesav- envisioned, and to help public television ing WEA messages will get to a subscriber. stations assist their communities. The chief lesson of emergency messaging is WEA enables cellular carriers to be a vital that the more ways the message goes out, link both during individual and mass emer- With the activation of the WARN system, the more likely people are to listen. How- gencies. every public television station in the coun- ever, cell phone network congestion during try, covering more than 95% of the popula- times of crisis has been a persistent problem The worse the disaster, the more urgent the tion, will broadcast every WEA message for this medium. The PBS WARN backup need for reliable emergency notification over-the-air. Although these messages are path of transmitting Wireless Emergency becomes. Superstorm Sandy provided a invisible to ordinary television viewers, cel- Alerts to cellular providers combines the vivid reminder that the internet, based on lular carriers who have opted in to WEA can robustness of traditional broadcast networks telecommunications infrastructure, is vulner- simply point an antenna at their local public with the modern geo-targeting capabilities able to natural disasters. While Sandy television station and parse out the messages of cell phones. caused tremendous damage to Internet and to get a hardened diverse connection to telephone services, television broadcasts FEMA’s Alert Aggregator. In 2006, Congress passed the Warning, remained on the air. PBS WARN allows Alert, and Response Network (WARN) act, cellular carriers to take advantage of robust Bringing television together with mobile establishing the groundwork for Wireless broadcast television infrastructure to make technology, PBS WARN is an exciting pro- Emergency Alerts (WEA), also known as sure the WEA messages get through. gram that will allow cellular carriers to by- the Commercial Mobile Alert System pass gridlock and move emergency messag- (CMAS). Although cellular phones were Since public television stations cover so ing into the fast lane. widespread and very useful for individuals much of the country, the terrestrial and satel- in trouble, the mass confusion caused by lite systems combine to provide a low-cost ∎ large-scale emergencies like Hurricane Katrina and September 11th resulted in cellu- lar networks that overloaded. Cellular phones in 2006 were unable to serve as a reliable medium of mass warning.

Like many Americans, 9/11 inspired me to buy my first cellular phone. I wanted to be in touch with my family, just in case. But in August of 2004, I was caught in New York City during the East Coast blackout. I had no idea of what had just happened. Had there been another attack? Were my parents in Washington, DC all right? The over- loaded network meant that the cell phone I had bought for precisely this reason couldn’t help me. Nobody could receive or place a call. Unable even to text, I walked next to millions of people on that humid afternoon, getting my news from the radios that blared

Page | 4 NABACASTER | NOVEMBER, 2013 NABA Members & Issues in the News  Comcast Hopes to Promote Shows in Twitter Deal  Public TV Connects to Feds’ New Emergency Alert System  Media Companies Ask Supreme Court to Rule on Legality of Aereo  GVF and IRG Tackle Interference with a Military Audience  Inmarsat Executive Talks Fourth Inmarsat-5 Satellite Plans  SES to Develop All-Electronic Satellite Platform for ESA  IRG Challenges Industry to Widespread Carrier ID Implementation by June, 2014  Rogers Communications Reports Q3 Results  CBC/Radio-Canada Holds Fifth Annual Public Meeting  Shaw Announces Q4 and Year End Results  NAB to FCC - Don't Take our ENG Channels  CBS News in Talks with Distributors for the 24-Hour Digital Video Service  CBC Unveils Broadcast Coverage of 2014 Sochi Olympics  DIRECTV Surprises in Q3

Looking Ahead - Key Dates & Upcoming Events

Date Event Location

Nov. 18-28 ITU-R SG-6, WP-6A, 6B & 6C “Broadcasting Service” Geneva, Switzerland

Nov. 20 NABA-Legal Committee Meeting Teleconference

Nov. 21 ITU-R Workshop on Emergency Broadcasting Geneva, Switzerland

Nov. 26 NABA-Risk Awareness & Continuity Committee Meeting Teleconference

Dec. 10 NABA-Board of Directors Meeting (Host TBC) New York City, NY, USA

Dec. 10-12 WIPO Extra-ordinary General Assembly Geneva, Switzerland

Dec. 16-20 WIPO 27th Standing Committee on Copyright and Related Rights Geneva, Switzerland

Jan. 07-10 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2014 Las Vegas, NV, USA

Feb. 11-12 NABA 2014 AGM Event & Conference New York, NY, USA

A complete list of upcoming events is available in the Calendar of Events section at www.nabanet.com

NABAcaster is also always available at www.nabanet.com

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