SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
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SBE Chapter 67 NEWSLETTER
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This NEWSLETTER is published by the SOCIETY OF BROADCAST ENGINEERS CHAPTER 67 for the benefit of its Members and others interested in BROADCAST ENGINEERING. Submission of news, articles and information is encouraged. The NEWSLETTER assumes NO responsibility for the content or accuracy of articles or information presented in the NEWSLETTER. The opinions, views, and ideas expressed are those of the individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions or ideas of the SOCIETY OF BROADCAST ENGINEERS, INC, the officers or members of SBE Chapter #67, or the NEWSLETTER.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
AUGUST 1998 SBE CHAPTER 67 MEETING NOTICE
TEXAS ASSOCIATION of BROADCASTERS and
SOCIETY of BROADCAST ENGINEERS, SOUTHWEST REGION
SBE ANNUAL CONFERENCE and TRADE SHOW
DATE: Thursday, Sept 3 - Friday Sept 4, 1998
PLACE: INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL
15201 Dallas Parkway
Dallas, TX
There will be no formal meeting this month as our Chapter hosts the TAB/SBE Engineering Conference.
HURRY!! HURRY!! FAX TAB today to take advantage of the Preregistration fee of just $45. Just notify TAB that you are registering for $45 and they will note to collect your payment when you pick up your credentials. BUT HURRY!! and DO IT NOW!!! FAX: (512) 322-0522
or call Beth Bobbitt at (512) 322-9944.
The 1998 TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION scheduled for September 3-4 at the INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL in Dallas has arrived. The Engineering registration fee includes all Exhibit Hall meal events. A look at the schedule reveals that the programs and presentations will be very informative and timely so make your plans because you won't want to miss this Conference. If you have not received the mailing, contact TAB at (512) 332-9944 or check the TAB link from our Chapter website. This year the exhibits will be a good mix of companies and products we know with many of the new and upcoming players in this new digital and computer driven domain. As you make the exhibits, be sure to express your appreciation for their participation in this TAB/SBE Conference.
All registrants are invited to attend the Texas State SBE Membership meeting which will be held at 4:45pm Thursday. Plan to attend and observe your SBE in action. There will be no Chapter 67 business meeting but sign-in sheets will be available at each session during the Conference so everyone can sign in for official attendance (You need to sign-in just ONCE).
DIRECTIONS: The INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL is located on the West side of the Dallas North Tollway just South of Arapaho Road. Take any route to Dallas North Tollway; go NORTH & exit Beltline/Arapaho; Take service road through Beltline to Arapaho; make a U-turn to go SOUTH and the INTER-CONTINENTAL is on the immediate west side.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
CALENDAR
Several of the 1998 SBE CHAPTER 67 meeting dates were changed to accommodate the 1998 TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE so make your plans accordingly.
***** 1998 SBE CALENDAR PLANNER *****
In order to keep you up to date for future planning, here are dates for important meetings for 1998-1999.
Sep 3-4—TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION Inter-Continental Hotel, Dallas
Sep 23-25—SATELLITE COMM EXPO AND CONF, Washington, DC
Sep 26-29—106th AES CONVENTION, San Francisco, CA
Oct 1—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Oct 14-17—NAB FALL RADIO SHOW, Seattle, WA
Oct 26-28—18th TELECON, Anaheim, CA
Oct 26-31—140th SMPTE TECHNICAL CONFERENCE, Pasadena, CA
Oct 27-29—SBE NATIONAL METING, Bellevue (Seattle) WA
Oct 29—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Dec 03—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
—————1999—————-
Jan 28—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Feb 25-27—33rd SMPTE ADVANCED MOTION IMAGING CONFERENCE, Orlando, FL.
Feb 25—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Mar 25—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Apr 17-22—NAB 99 CONVENTION, Las Vegas, NV
Apr 29—SBE CHAPTER 67 monthly meeting
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
CAPFLASH—CAPFLASH—CAPFLASH
AUGUST 1998
The July `CAP of the MONTH' was awarded to Arthur Runyon, Retired Chief Engineer KHSX-TV-49 after he was presented with a Plaque in appreciation of his more than 4 years service as our Chapter CERTIFICATION CHAIRMAN. (Also see MINUTES column).
There will NOT be a August `CAP of the MONTH' since we are not having a formal meeting while we attend the TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE and EXHIBITION.
Our "CAP of the MONTH" feature is provided by DANNEY STANLEY, HIS MARKETING. Danney represents EEV (Klystrons, IOTs....Please call him first if you need one) and GEPCO WIRE & CABLE (Broadcast wire & cable). HIS MARKETING is also Distributor of ADC, BRADY, KINGS, NEUTRIK, & SWITCHCRAFT).
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT JULY, 1998
By Sandy
DO I REALLY HAVE TO GO??
The 1998 TAB/SBE Engineering Conference takes place on Thursday and Friday, September 3-4 at the Hotel Inter-Continental in Dallas.
We are constantly hit by the question of how to allocate our time. Is the TAB/SBE convention important enough that we should spend our valuable time attending?
Very seldom does a broadcast engineer get the ability to view the latest products in our industry in one place. The engineer can talk to the people that know most about the products at the same time. All this can be accomplished in just a day or two. The opportunity to get all this knowledge so quickly rarely comes.
However knowledge ain't cheap. I believe that the effort you expend to attend this convention will be returned in value many times. In addition, if you contact your friendly broadcast equipment vendor he will probably give a free exhibit pass.
SBE67 will hold the August monthly meeting in conjunction with other chapters from Texas at this convention.
I am looking forward to seeing many of you during this convention.
And the answer is "YES, YOU HAVE TO GO!!"
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
—> ADVERTISER & INDUSTRY NEWS <—-
Stuart McRae has left BROADCAST ELECTRONICS and closed the North Texas sales office.
The Dallas office of BURST COMMUNICATIONS has added Paul Byron as inside sales support, customer service, and product demonstration. Paul has 13 years recording and five years radio broadcast experience. Please feel free to call on Paul anytime you need information or assistance at (972) 248-4905.
DIELECTRIC COMMUNICATIONS has announced the appointment of Kerry Cozad as VP of the Advanced Broadcast Operations. Kerry, antenna design specialist, previously worked with ANDREW and HARRIS.
Steve Schott, HARRIS Radio Sales Manager, has moved his office to Glen Rose and can now be contacted at (254) 898-9200 or E-mail: sschott@harris.com.
Dan Sessler, newly named HARRIS TV Sales Manager, has completed his move from Florida and will have his office in Southlake. His new telephone is (817) 906-1184 and E-mail: dsessler@harris.com.
Tom Johnston and Roger Miller have formed T & R ASSOCIATES as they expect to rep several lines. Tom will retain and operate his TOM JOHNSTON & ASSOCIATES with the same phone contacts: (254) 694-6080 or Pager: (254) 580-2009. Roger can be contacted at: (817) 329-5362.
MARCUS CABLE corporate personnel were dealt shocking news just months after Paul Allen, ex-MICROSOFT billionaire, assured them that he was "buying the company for the management and looking forward to building on it", announced the day he agreed to buy St. Louis based CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS for $4.5 billion that the companies would be merged and based in St. Louis. Since then, Jeff Marcus, MARCUS CABLE Chairman, has announced his departure from the company. This should not be surprising after Tom Hicks, Chairman of CHANCELLOR MEDIA, installed Marcus as President & CEO of the rapidly growing media company.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA, took a $59.5 million `severance expense' when the company reported a 2nd Quarter loss of $64.5 million (.50/share) on revenue of almost $324 million. Last year, 2nd Quarter revenue was $106.4 million with a profit of $5.5 million (.06/share). The charge was a mix of cash & stock options paid to ex-CEO Scott Ginsburg who had founded EVERGREEN MEDIA which was merged with CHANCELLOR last year and headed by Ginsburg until he departed in April after he was informed that he would not remain CEO as Hicks planned to make CHANCELLOR an international multimedia company. Two weeks later, Hicks named Jeff Marcus as the CEO of CHANCELLOR and since then has committed to pay $1.64 billion for LIN TV and almost a billion for a major billboard company, MARTIN MEDIA. Last week, Marcus named three presidents to head the radio, TV, and outdoor media divisions. (Also see RADIO RUMBLES for CHANCELLOR's radio dealings this month).
CREATIVE TECHNOLOGY GROUP is now shipping MacroVoxMC, a command and control program for use with the AVID TECHNOLOGY non-linear video editing system, Media Composer. The system introduces two new powerful capabilities—voice control and macro scripting. This will save time and reduce physical stress and marks the first time voice control and macro scripting have been applied to video editing workstations. To see a demo videotape or additional information contact: James Martin or your CTG contact at (972) 888-6088 or toll free (800) 279-2013.
AH BELO has named two VPs for interactive media in its publishing and broadcast divisions. Dale Peskin has been promoted to the publishing post reporting to Burl Osborne, president of BELO's publishing division. Flory Bramnick has been promoted to the broadcast division position reporting to Ward Huey, Jr., BELO's Vice Chairman & President of the broadcast division. BELO notes that interactive media is becoming an increasingly important and growing extension of our information, news, & entertainment services.
PACIFIC RESEARCH & ENGINEERING CORP (PR&E) has agreed to acquire GRAHAM PATTERN SYSTEMS which manufactures & sells digital audio mixers for video editors.
MYAT has developed a new line of transmission line products featuring a 7 3/16" 75 ohm rigid line that has significantly less wind loading than 8 3/16" line or waveguide, and provides better attenuation & more power than 6 1/8" line.
The PUC has finalized and issued the timetable for the new Dallas area code (469). The start date will be July 1999. It will overlay the entire present 214 and 972 areas. On December 5, 1998, 10 digit dialing will be mandatory for the 214, 972, and of course the new 469 when it comes on line.
Have you noticed that all the non-primary long distance access codes now have seven digits which is up from the previous five digits? It is estimated that there are more than three thousand long distance operators in the USA. Who would have ever thought????
GLOBALSTAR has been launching LEO satellites since February and expects to have 44 of its planned 48 satellites by the end of this year. It will launch 12 more early next year completing its worldwide LEO system and have 8 spares in orbit. The $2.6 billion GLOBALSTAR system will provide worldwide telephone service and a variety of digital voice services via cellular-sized hand-held, vehicle-mounted, & fixed terminals using the CDMA digital technology. The company is a partnership led by LORAL SPACE & COMMUNICATIONS and includes at least 12 large companies worldwide.
PRIME GROUP of Chicago has been planning and will request zoning for a 2,000' $600 million building at 300 N LaSalle. The proposed building calls for about 65 stories of offices, a 30 story hotel, and 10 floors of luxury condominiums—topped off with an observation deck, about 10 more stories of transmission equipment and capped by a 400' antenna. The Chicago 1,450' SEARS TOWER was the world's tallest building from 1973-1996 when the 1,483' Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur was completed. If this building is built, there will be lots and lots of research and studies to determine which stations will decide to relocate to the new site.
The audit by the FCC claims that the regional BELL telephone companies cannot locate about $5 billion worth of equipment they claim on their books. The audit lends support to consumer groups which have been claiming that the companies inflate their reports of costs to justify higher rates. The companies are disputing the study's accuracy, And so the struggle goes on.
On the legal front, the St Louis appeals court issued a ruling that the Baby Bells & GTE must transport competitors' phone traffic at actual cost. If this ruling stands, it will lower the costs for the new competitors to use Bell urban lines for their local service. It is expected that the Bells will appeal or request reconsideration.
Meanwhile the FCC will be proposing rules which should accelerate the deployment of high-speed cyberspace links to the home. The ruling if enacted would allow the Baby Bells to avoid reselling the use of their advanced data systems if they establish separate data subsidiaries. Currently, local phone companies must resell the use of their systems to new competitors.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
MINUTES
Here are the minutes of the last meeting of SBE Chapter 67 for member's information and review. We hope that this will enable our membership to be better informed and to save time at the next meeting. Any additions or corrections will be discussed when the minutes are presented for approval at the meeting. We are interested in and solicit your comments.
========================================================
MINUTES of Joint SMPTE/SBE CHAPTER 67 MEETING: July 30, 1998
LOCATION: SONY ELECTRONICS, 8400 Esters Road, Suite 500, Irving, TX.
Business meeting called to order at 7:00pm by Chapter Chairman Sandy Sandberg. This meeting with approximately 85 members & guests in attendance was a joint meeting with the DFW SMPTE Chapter. SMPTE Chairman Dale Rochon welcomed members and guests, thanked SONY personnel for the meeting arrangements, food, & drinks and the program. Chairman Sandberg echoed the comments, presented KHSX-TV-49 Chief Engineer retiree, Arthur Runyon, a service plaque for his years of Chapter service as Certification Chairman, reported that national membership renewals were leading last year, announced changes in the remainder of our 1998 meeting dates, and urged attendance at the TAB/SBE Engineering Conference Sept 3-4 at the INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL, Dallas. Announced job opening at MIDCOM and reported that job openings & postings are listed in the NEWSLETTER & on our website. Noted that ENNES & GREENBERG scholarships were now available.
DOOR PRIZE numbers called were: 1122—Wayne Hassell, NTSU, Denton and 1050—David Davis, UTA, Arlington. Neither present to claim $120.
Motion made & passed to present the "CAP of the MONTH" to Art Runyon for his service as Certification Chairman.
OFFICER REPORTS:
VICE-CHAIRMAN—Not Present
SECRETARY—The June minutes were approved as printed in the NEWSLETTER
TREASURER—Balance of $6,354.75 with July bills to pay
FREQ COORDINATOR-NFL wireless I/COM system is operational & will be a problem for some wireless mics. NFL is supposed to coordinate. Move underway to legalize (which now is doubtful) the service on a secondary basis. All available freq coordination data is now on our website: sbe67.org. All stations should check their listings & fax or E-mail updates & corrections to our Freq Coordinator.
CERTIFICATION—Filing deadline for the November test is September 25.
PROGRAM: Chairman introduced Jeff Harris, SONY BROADCAST Account Manager, who introduced other SONY staff members, welcomed members & guests and introduced Chris Soltesz for his HDTV presentation, "WONDERFUL WORLD of WIDE SCREEN TV".
The meeting was adjourned at 8:20pm.
SOCIETY of BROADCAST ENGINEERS, INC.
North Texas Chapter 67, INC
Bill Guyger, Chapter Secretary
(214) 520-4383 E-mail: secretary@sbe67.org
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
TV NOTES DROPPED OVER THE TRANSOM
By John Galt
Congratulations!! Robert (Bob) Turner, 45 year veteran of WFAA-TV 8 and for several years AH BELO Engineering Manager, has been promoted to Vice President/Engineering for BELO's Broadcast Division.
Peter Adrainopoli has relocated back to the METROPLEX. He has been hired by KDAF-TV 33 to fill their master control operator position. Pete worked at KXAS-TV 5 during the eighties before moving to Chicago.
July saw the addition of Chuck Spencer, formerly with BEARCOM, to the KTVT-TV 11 Engineering Staff as an ENG Engineer.
Ralph Gould, who moved to Boise, Idaho when KDFI-TV 27 became the LMA for KDFW-TV 4 several years ago, started working for KDFW-TV 4 last month, reconsidered and has returned to Boise, reportedly because he could not sell his house there.
KUVN-TV 23 had a very busy month installing a new 240kw HARRIS IOT transmitter at its Garland transmitter site. Bill Smith is doing the RF plumbing and check out of the system. On air is expected to be sometime in late September.
The station (studio) also suffered thru the failure of the building air conditioning intermittently for a week or so during our 100+ heat wave. Page reports that (luckily) when they constructed their new technical areas, a separate heating/air conditioning system was installed so the technical operation did not suffer during the building's air conditioning outage.
UNIVISION's New York flagship station (physically located in New Jersey) was rebuilt recently as a total digital installation and will serve as a model for the network's stations to plan their conversions. UNIVISION's Director of Engineering Jose Bovida and UNIVISION O&O TV Station Division's Director of Engineering, Tim Schultz, are formulating DTV proposals for management approval and expect to meet with all the stations' Chief Engineers before the end of the year to outline the specifications, timetable, etc for UNIVISION's DTV/HDTV conversion. Considerable UNIVISION programming comes from Mexico and will be distributed on the 1080i DTV/HDTV format.
Locally, KUVN-TV 23 allocated to and transmitting from Garland, has applied for FCC rule making to move their DTV allocation to Cedar Hill. A frequency search is being made to come up with a compatible channel which could be used in Cedar Hill.
Project Manager Bill Smith & DOTY MOORE TOWER SERVICES have completed the installation and check out of the KDFW-DT 35 antenna installation. The COMARK DTV transmitter has been delivered and checked out, so the station will begin programming shortly. Both WFAA-DT 9 and KDFW-DT 35 are programming at the transmitter until delivery (expected to be within 60 days) of their new STL's which will be capable of passing both the NTSC and the DTV signal on the present analog channel.
Bill Smith was also busy at KDFI-TV 27 working with DOTY MOORE TOWER SERVICES repairing a major transmission line burnout that kept the station off the air for several days during the week of August 3. The problem occurred about 150' above ground but required about 450' of line repair.
KTVT-TV 11 has been busy changing their primary AC power service to 480 volt service and is installing a HARRIS transmitter in preparation for temporary use when their present antenna will be replaced with a HARRIS channel 11/13 VHF and an ANDREW channel 14/19 DTV UHF antenna fed by ANDREW transmission lines. With KEGL-FM moving off the tower, KERA-FM will be going it alone on a FM antenna which will most likely not be the same design as was planned for the duplex operation. GAYLORD ENTERTAINMENT owned KTVT-TV 11 did not commit to make the November 98 DTV on air date but is planning to make the May 99 startup timetable.
KXAS-TV-5 has installed and converted their news editing systems using PANASONIC's DVCPRO VCR and editing equipment for mastering and editing. The SONY SP field acquisition VCRs will continue in use for the foreseeable future.
In Janurary KDAF-TV 33 will initiate a daily 9pm newscast following the tradition being used by TRIBUNE's flagship WGN-TV 9 Chicago. Hopefully this time the project won't be scuttled again as occurred several years ago when FOX abruptly halted the installation after surprising the industry with the "big network" switch during FOX's station expansion including KDFW-TV 4 in Dallas.
Dr. Joe Flaherty, Senior VP of Technology at CBS & Chair of the North American National Broadcasters Association (NANBA) Technical Committee, has been elected the new Chair of the World Broadcasting Union (WBU) Technical Committee.
PAXSON TV, owner of a large group of mainly UHF full power & LVTVs including local KPXD-TV 68 (changed from KINZ-TV 68), will begin its new primetime lineup of off network syndicated programs anchored by its 7pm (local time) TOUCHED BY AN ANGEL.
The FCC has released new rules clarifying its procedures for the processing of DTV applications. NO surprises. Checklist (those meeting table guidelines) will be processed first; non-checklist applications will require interference study showings and of these—Nov 98, 1-10 markets with the early Nov 98 commitment and May 99 deadlines will be processed second; and then all others.
The FCC has opened an inquiry, not a rulemaking yet, about whether cable systems should be required to carry DTV stations in addition to the analog stations. Seven (yes 7) possibilities were offered ranging from full must-carry from the beginning to no DTV must-carry. The cable industry maintains that many systems don't have and won't have capacity to carry both analog & DTV stations without dropping revenue producing satellite services which would cause rate increases. Comments are due in late September with replies in late October.
On July 22, MICROSOFT and INTEL released PC 99 Systems Design Guide which recommends that future PC platforms incorporate support for receiving DTV broadcasts. Socalled entertainment computers are urged to include a ATSC tuner/demod and MPEG-2 decoding capabilities supporting at least 480/50P and 720/24P with higher scan rates optional.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
SBE NEWS—AUGUST, 1998
All current SBE members should have received their national election ballot. There are eleven (11) candidates for the six (6) National Board of Director seats. Participate in your SBE, vote, and send in your ballot before the September 17 deadline.
1998 membership renewals are overdue so make sure you send in your payment. As we remind you every year, the SBE By-Laws specify that anyone in arrears on July l will be taken off the membership role. Don't let your membership lapse!!! If you have any questions about your membership status, you can contact Bill Schock at (817) 534-6651 or Teresa at National (317) 253-164O.
Also, a reminder to check the expiration of your certification. You should receive a renewal notice about six months prior to your expiration. Do not put off filing your renewal. If you have any questions, contact Linda at the National Office: (317) 253-1640. Remember, we also have a Chapter 67 Certification Chairman to help you with your renewal questions AND application. Chairman Lady Compton can be contacted at (817) 654-1100 Ext 271 or email: certification@sbe67.org.
The SBE now has individual guides for each of the Certification exams that include sample questions that are typical of those on each level of the exam and a listing of suggested reference materials for each level. The prep guides are a paper format and include the answers to the sample questions. The cost of each level is $19.
Also available are two training handbooks targeted for radio & TV operator to prepare for the operator certification. The cost includes the handbook and cost of a proctored exam. The radio handbook is $37 and the TV handbook is $39. Station and production facilities are beginning to promote and encourage their engineers to become certified. For information and forms contact Landy Compton, CPBE, KTVT-TV-11, at (817) 654-1100 Ext 271 or email: certification@sbe67.org. DON'T let your certification lapse!!!
SBE's new program targeting high school age students will officially began August 1. High school students interested in the technical aspects of broadcasting will be invited to become Youth Members. They will receive a special newsletter three times a year during the school year containing information on school operated stations, post secondary institutions offering broadcast engineering related courses, scholarship information, and age appropriate technical articles. Youth Members will also receive other SBE member benefits including discounts on technical books and seminars and access to the SBE JOBLINE. Annual dues will be just $10. For an application, contact the Membership Department at the SBE National Office—(317) 253-1640. If you have an interest in such a program or have any ideas or suggestions, please contact our local Youth Program Chairman Brian Weber, NAVARRO COLLEGE, at (903) 874-6501 or member Bill Guyger, KLIF-AM/KPLX-FM, at (214) 520-4383.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
====AUGUST 1998====
PROGRAM=TIDBITS=and=MORE=or=LESS
Thanks to everyone for the great turnout at the July joint SBE/ SMPTE meeting. More than 80 SBE and SMPTE members and guests crowded into the SONY conference room to take in Chris Soltesz's "WONDERFUL WORLD of WIDE SCREEN TV presentation.
Chris informs us that his presentation is available as an Acrobat file on the DFW SMPTE website at: `http://home1.gte.net/imagtech/smpte.htm'. You can also contact Chris directly at SONY, (972) 915-3215 or E-mail—chris_soltesz@mail.sel.sony.com.
Our thanks to Chris, Ernie Magnotti, Jeff Harris, & Terri Odle for all the arrangements, food, and drinks.
The SBE/TAB Engineering Conference committee has assembled an excellent array of programs to be presented September 3-4 so PLAN TO BE THERE—YOU WON'T WANT TO MISS IT!!!!!! (Also see SBE column).
We remind you to check the meeting calendar for the remaining (just 3 more meetings this year) 1998 meeting dates. Make written notes so that you will be reminded of the dates.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
RADIO RUMBLES
by Clay Steely
AUGUST 1998
Bob Tripp, long time metroplex radio engineer, has suffered a stroke and being cared for by his daughter Celia Reid in Denton.
Doug Watson, Chief Engineer KCBI-FM, has resigned to accept a position with LUCENT TECHNOLOGIES in Mesquite.
Steve Halatyn, formerly field engineer CONTINENTAL ELECTRONICS, is acting Chief Engineer KCBI-FM.
Ed Pryor, recently with KEGL-FM, has been named Director of Engineering, KLTY-FM.
Ken Michael has been promoted to Vice President, Network Engineering, at ABC Broadcast Operations & Engineering.
Frank Bonner, Chief Engineer KNTU-FM, Denton & past-Chapter Secretary, will retire this month. Frank will continue his parttime engineering for KGAF-AM-1580, Gainesville and continue handling the chapter sign-in logs.
Aaron Browie, formerly with SHADOW BCST SERVICES, will assume the KNTU-FM Chief Engineer's position September 1.
Stuart McRae has left BROADCAST ELECTRONICS and has closed the North Texas sales office.
As the installation of a ten-station HARRIS FM antenna on the new Cowboy Tower nears completion, it appears that KEGL-FM will be the first tenant to use the antenna. KEGL-FM which recently become a JACOR COMMUNICATIONS station will be moving off the KTVT-TV 11 tower as soon as they start operation from the new antenna & tower.
Also KLUV-FM-98.7 and KVIL-FM-103.7 have been granted FCC approval to increase their antenna height to 1659' and change transmitter location (presumably to the new COWBOY TOWER).
KLTY-FM has filed to build a new auxiliary facility.
KPLX Chief Engineer Hue Beavers has completed rebuilding the recently purchased KDSX-AM-950, Sherman/Denison, and is hoping that the redesigned antenna network remains stable.
The KEGL-FM & KDMX-FM engineering staff has been busy relocating KEGL-FM's offices and studios from their Los Colinas location into the KDMX-FM North Dallas facility. As we all know, it is no easy task to keep both stations on the air full time and a short deadline to get it all done. By the time you read this, the move should be almost completed.
KAAM-AM-62O, operating as a DISNEY LMA until FCC approval for the $12 million purchase by DISNEY/ABC RADIO, switched to the Radio Disney format on August 1. The studio operation has already been moved to the WBAP/KSCS studios on Lamar Blvd in Arlington.
And recently, DISNEY/ABC RADIO proposed to acquire KNKI-FM-96.7 which is a move-in from Sherman to Flower Mound. Just announced this week, the company is acquiring 50kw WMVP-AM, Chicago for an undisclosed price from CHANCELLOR MEDIA and plans to make it the flagship station for the ESPN RADIO SPORTS NETWORK. ESPN RADIO is a joint venture between Connecticut based ESPN, Inc and Dallas based ABE RADIO NETWORKS. The network is carried on more than 450 radio stations around the country.
Recent format changes in the METROPLEX have kept everyone guessing.
SUSQUEHANNA's KPLX-FM-98.6 format switch to "THE WOLF" has had programmers all over town `howling'—(sorry, couldn't resist).
To our knowledge, the new FM being constructed east of Dallas was to begin programming at least some of the disbanded KAAM-AM-620 good music format this month but has not come on the air as yet.
The rumored Dallas AM to change to a oldies music format is slated to be KOOO-AM-1190 which will abandon the current talk format next month. The station will be programmed by CBS owned KLUV-FM-98.7.
And now comes the rumor that CHANCELLOR is planning to swap programming on two of its stations—stay tuned.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA not only continues to climb in radio station acquisitions but also in the ratings as the latest ARBITRON ratings have the company dominating in 7 of the top 10 radio markets. CM continues to hold the lead position in 4—San Francisco, Detroit, Houston, & Washington, DC and now adds New York, Chicago, & Philadelphia in the latest ratings but isn't tops in LA, Boston, and DFW CM's rival CBS rules in those 3 markets.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA continues its expansion with the $275 million purchase of six Cleveland radio stations (4 FMs & 2 AMs). Jeff Marcus, CHANCELLOR's President & CEO, notes that in one transaction involving three companies positions CHANCELLOR as a leading operator in Cleveland which is the 23rd largest radio market augmenting their 108 radio stations mainly clustered in major markets.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA is also expanding into Puerto Rico paying $75 million for eight FM stations which were privately owned by PRIMEDIA BCST GROUP. The market is estimated to rank as the nation's 11th radio market as ARBITRON will begin to include Puerto Rico in its ratings coverage this year. The stations simulcast three formats to the San Juan, Mayaguez, & Ponce regions.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA will also enter the Mexican radio arena with a $237 million for 50% ownership in GRUPO RADIO CENTRO which has 6 AMs & 6 FMs, acts as the national sales rep, and provides programming for a network of more than 90 stations in Mexico. GRC is controlled by the Aguirre Family who will retain control with Adrian Aguirre continuing as president & CEO. The two companies have also agreed to jointly pursue opportunities in the US spanish language radio market.
ABC RADIO NETWORKS is relocating many of its radio management personnel. Some New York senior management people are being transferred to the Network's offices near the Galleria in North Dallas. The DISNEY RADIO management staff will be moving from Dallas to Burbank near DISNEY headquarters. Production & programming for RADIO DISNEY will remain in Dallas.
CAPSTAR BROADCASTING CO has formed a 6th CAPSTAR operating company with the formation of SEASTAR COMMUNICATIONS in Nashville. Named as President & CEO is former VP of SFX BCSTG, John King who will oversee the operations of 22 radio stations and 2 syndicated programs.
CAPSTAR has also agreed to purchase all outstanding shares of TRATHION BCSTG CO for about $190 million including equity and assumption of debt. The deal calls for CAPSTAR to pay $13 per share and is expected to close in 1999.
PACIFIC RESEARCH & ENGINEERING (PR&E) which recently announced its intention to acquire GRAHAM PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC, manufacturer of digital audio mixers for the video editing environment has named Donald Naab as president. The position was previously held by Jack Williams who will remain Chairman & CEO. Williams stated, "This appointment continues the transition from an engineering founded and managed company to one directed by experienced, professional management with a solid understanding of technology. Don brings a successful track record which includes product development, international operations, sales & marketing, internal growth & acquisition integration".
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
~~~JOBS AVAILABLE & WANTED — AUGUST, 1998~~~
These JOB LISTINGS are positions which have come to our attention and are intended to notify those seeking or having work of possible opportunities which may exist. To the best of our knowledge, all company listings are EOE.
KCBI-FM has an opening for a radio engineer—For further information, contact Steve Halatyn at (817) 792-3800.
KFWD-TV-52 has an opening for a Broadcast Engineer, for ENG truck & studio maintenance. Minimum of an Associate Degree in Electronics, maintenance, or related field & an understanding of microwave communications. Other requirements include valid driver's license. VCR & TV equipment repair, ENG or Production truck experience a plus. Submit resume to KFWD-TV-52 Engineering, Job Code—BE-STL-ENG, 3000 Story RD, Irving, TX, 75038.
KFWD-TV-52 on-air operation controller responsible for station operations and transmitter logs—must be able to write legibly while cueing and playing tapes—fast reactions, clear thinking, & ability to follow directions exactly are a necessity—Bilingual (English & Spanish) is a plus. Submit resume to KFWD-TV-52, Job Code—MC-OP, 3000 Story RD, Irving, TX, 75038.
Dave Hebert, 32 year broadcast engineer veteran, has been caught in the massive layoff at CONTINENTAL ELECTRONICS (Also see Advertiser & Industry News column). Dave was primarily a test technician specializing in transmitters and RF equipment. Dave is considering several pending positions.
DALLAS COMMUNITY TELEVISION is seeking a full time video engineer. For information contact Debbie Mason at (214) 631-5571.
Sam Smith, formerly Engineering Manager, TANDY-RADIO SHACK, is seeking TV opportunities in the area. Sam can be contacted at: (817) 784-1983.
Chuck Shamka, formerly with KGVL/KIKT in Greenville, is seeking opportunities in the Metroplex. Chuck can be reached at (903) 454-8089.
KTVT-TV-11 has an opening for the position of Transmitter Maintenance Engineer to repair, install, maintain, & perform preventive maintenance of all technical equipment. Two year Associate Degree or two years of technical school related to radio & TV broadcasting required. FCC General class radiotelephone license and/or SBE Broadcast Engineer Certification and valid TX driver's license. For other requirements and additional information, contact KTVT-TV-11 Human Resources at (817) 451-1111.
The Marcus Rodriguez Group has openings for two (2) studio engineers (will consider full or part time). Information available by contacting Ed Pryor, KLTY-FM, at (214) 630-9400.
WFAA-TV-8 has an opening for a SYSTEMS MANAGER responsible for overseeing news electronic information systems, including the AVID NETSTATION & BASYS computer network, maintenance & operation of computer equipment. Should have both journalistic & technical skills, understanding of TV news broadcasting and minimum three years experience managing a news room computer system. Check the WFAA-TV-8 jobline at (214) 977-6003.
SONY ELECTRONICS BCST & PROFESSIONAL SERVICE in Irving has openings for Field Service Engineers (must be able to travel), Service Engineers, and Associate Service Engineers to troubleshoot, repair, and rebuild broadcast equipment as required and provide technical support to customers in the region. FAX resumes to (972) 915-3388 or mail to SONY, 8400 Esters Blvd, Irving, TX, 75063.
Among the listings on the SBE NATIONAL JOBLINE are these area employment opportunities:
Houston—TV Assistant Chief Engineer—experience with UHF transmitters, computers, & production equipment—FCC general license or SBE certification is highly desired—JOB #809.
DALLAS/FW—TV transmitter maintenance engineer with Associate's degree or 2 years technical school related to radio & TV broadcast engineering—JOB #759.
Tyler—Radio broadcast engineers with extensive experience in studio and RF construction, computer hardware, operating systems & networks—JOB #757.
Members seeking employment and job opportunities can also contact Teresa Wallman at the SBE JOBSLINE at (317) 253-0474 or call the SBE National Office at (317) 253-1640. Employers wishing to list a job opening should contact Teresa.
=========SBE INSTITUTES RESUME SERVICE=========
The recently approved resume service for members began July 1. An SBE member can, at no charge, submit five copies of their resumes to the SBE National Office. These are placed on file, noting individual preferences for job location and type. Prospective employers, for a fee of $25 to help cover administrative costs, can request resumes from SBE that meet the qualifications for the position they have available. From that point, the job search and selection process is between the candidate and the employer. Completing a simple fact sheet is required. Contact Teresa or Scott at (317) 253-1640.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
EAS NOTES
AUGUST 1998
REQUIRED MONTHLY TEST (RMT) SCHEDULE—TEXAS 1998
01:19pm Wed Sep 09
11:19pm Thu Oct 08
09:19am Tue Nov 03
05:19am Fri Dec 11
Note: All times are approximate and are subject to coordination between originating stations WBAP and KTRH.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
<<DOOR DOOR—PRIZE PRIZE>>
AUGUST 1998
Since there were no "DOOR PRIZE" winners at the July meeting and no formal local Chapter meeting this month, our October 1 meeting will feature a $140 "DOOR PRIZE" courtesy of Bret Brewer, CONTINENTAL ELECTRONICS, and a possible $240. thanks to Don Splettstosser & ELEC TROTEX—your Electronics Parts Store.
The two numbers called at the July meeting were: 1122—Wayne Hassell, NTSU Denton, and 1050—David Davis, Arlington. Neither were present to claim the "DOOR PRIZE".
Be sure to plan to attend the TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE and our next local meeting October 1 and REMEMBER the RULES!! You MUST produce your current month's NEWSLETTER in order to claim the `DOOR PRIZE' and BRING A GUEST to win lots more CASH and PRIZES!!!!
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
OBITUARIES ——AUGUST 1998—-
Bob Sims, AMERICAN MEDIA SERVICES, passed away recently. Bob was well known throughout the METROPLEX and the nation as the "one" who rebuilt all your bad audio carts.
David Green informed us that Tom Green, long time metroplex engineer with KXOL, WBAP, KJIM died on August 3 of an apparent heart attack.
Jim Wilson, president of LARCAN-TTC since 1996 and president of LDL COMMUNICATIONS since 1984, died of cancer June 25. During his career, Jim held management positions with ANDREW ANTENNA, RAYTHEON CANADA, MACOM, & BAYLY ENGINEERING.
John Hoffman, who recently retired after 29 years with NBC radio, died of cancer. John was founder of the BCST Professional Forum on CompuServe and helped SBE get started on CompuServe which led to the interlinked bulletin board network and eventually to the web services now in use. Shortly before his death, he was designing software that could be used by NBC to control all NBC operations including Burbank from NYC.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
AUGUST, 1998
TAB/SBE 45th ANNUAL CONVENTION and TRADE SHOW
1998 SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
September 3-4, 1998
REGISTRATION HOURS EXHIBIT HOURS
8am-5pm Wednesday, Sept. 2
8am-5pm Thursday, Sept. 3 8am-6pm Thursday, Sept. 3
8am Friday, Sept. 4 8am-1pm Friday, Sept. 4
RADIO ENGINEERING CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Thursday Sept 3
8am-9am Breakfast & Exhibits
9:15-10:15 DIGITAL AUDIO STORAGE SYSTEMS
10:30-11:45 FCC & RADIO TECHNOLOGY-DSB,RDBS, DAB
11:30-1:30 WALK AROUND LUNCH & EXHIBITS
1:30-2:30 ENGINEERING & LEGAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED
3:00-4:00 DIGITAL AUDIO BCSTG - The IBOC SYSTEMS
4:45-5:30 SBE REGIONAL MEETING - ANNUAL REVIEW
6:30-7:30 President's Reception
Friday Sept 4
8am-9am Breakfast & Exhilits
9:15-10:15 CREATING A WEB PAGE & MASTERING TRICKS
10:30-11:30 DIGITAL CONSOLES - HOW ARE THEY DIFFERENT
11:30-1:00 EXHIBITS and DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS
TELEVISION ENGINEERING CONFERENCE SCHEDULE
Thursday Sept 3
8am-9am Breakfast & Exhibits
9:15-10:15 NTSC & DTV on your STL PATH
10:30-11:45 TALES of the DTV CITY
11:30-1:30 WALK AROUND LUNCH & EXHIBITS
1:30-2:30 ENGINEERING & LEGAL QUESTIONS ANSWERED
3:00-4:00 DTV MODULATION SYSTEMS - HOW 8VSB WORKS
4:45-5:30 SBE Regional Meeting - Annual Review
6:30-7:30 President's Reception
Friday Sept 4
8am-9am Breakfast & Exhilits
9:15-10:15 CREATING A WEB PAGE & MASTERING TRICKS
10:30-11:30 ANTENNA SPACE on TOWERS - THE SHORTAGE
11:30-1:00 EXHIBITS and DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGS