SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
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SBE Chapter 67 NEWSLETTER
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=-=-=-DISCLAIMER-=-=-=
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
JULY, 1998
JULY 1998 SBE CHAPTER 67 MEETING NOTICE
"WONDERFUL WORLD OF WIDE SCREEN TV"
Christopher Soltesz, Sales Support Engineer/
Marketing Development Specialist
SONY ELECTRONICS, INC.
DATE: Thursday, July, 30, 1998
PLACE: SONY ELECTRONICS, INC.
8400 Esters Road, Suite 500
Irving, TX 75063
5:30pm SONY will host sandwiches and beverages from 5:30-7:00pm. Some Wide Screen camera equipment and monitors will be on display for informal inspection and discussion during this time.
7:00pm Chapter #67 business meeting followed by the program presentation.
PROGRAM: Chris Soltesz's presentation will cover the 16:9 wide screen aspect ratio, how it pertains to broadcasters and production companys and how it relates to HDTV. Demonstrations of what happens when you try to mix a 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios will be shown.
DIRECTIONS: Take John Carpenter Frwy (114) toward D/FW airport to the Esters Road exit. Go NORTH on Esters Road about four (4) blocks to 8400, past the building. Exit right into the parking lot. Suite 500 is on the first floor of the building.
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OF SPECIAL INTEREST — The North Central Texas Chapter of the SOCIETY of CABLE TELECOMMUNICATIONS ENGINEERS will host an all day Digital Cable TV presentation the Thursday, Aug 13, from 9am-4pm. It will be at the TCI production studio, 1565 Chenault, Dallas. Registration starts at 8:30am with a member fee of $10 and a non-member fee of $15. NCTC has offered SBE members, upon ID, to register as members for $10. This will be an informative review of analog TV modulation, intro to digital TV, a discussion of digital modulation schemes, digital measurements and a special presentation of MPEG. Special lab setups to demonstrate many digital concepts, state-of-the-art test equipment and digital techniques. DIRECTIONS from East R L Thornton Frwy (I-30), exit Buckner Blvd and take the NORTH service road to Dilido - North to 1565 Chenault on the left.
This is a great opportunity for SBE members to learn first-hand and discuss what's happening in the TV cable industry. Any questions should be directed to Leslie (Les) Read at (972) 270-6509 or E-mail `lwread@sol.com'.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
============OF SPECIAL NOTE============
Having just reviewed the latest Chapter Membership Roster reveals that we are closing in on 200 members and are up about 25 members compared to this time last year and before the July purging of members who have NOT paid their 1998 dues. Using past experience, after the drop-offs, we will probably not reach the 200 level for some time as we gradually regain reinstated and new members. We are fortunate that our area is in a good growth mode so its possible to reach the 200 level this year. If you have not made your dues payment do so ASAP so that you're membership will not be interrupted. If you know of a prospective member—get them signed up—membership information and applications are available at our meetings or contact any Chapter Officer. We deem it appropriate at this time to recognize ADVANCED BROADCAST SERVICES (ABS), a spin-off of VICTOR DUNCAN, for their support of SBE & its CERTIFICATION PROGRAM by having TEN (10) of their Technical Employees join SBE (membership applications have been filed and approved) and granting them one year to become CERTIFIED—(company paid). We certainly congratulate ABS management, especially General Manager Tom Kraemer and Dallas Branch Manager, Greg Blanton for their support and assistance and of course Greg will be overseeing the Certification process. This is the largest membership enrollment in our Chapter history and with a total of 13 members, ABS has become the company with the most SBE Chapter 67 members. We hope this will prompt other companies and individuals to increase their support and membership in SBE. Radio & TV Engineering members are reminded that SBE has both a radio and a TV Operator's Certification classification so this could be used as an incentive for your operating engineers to become members.
This is also a good time to again commend WESTCOTT COMMUNICATIONS for their support of SBE for their Technical Group. Several years ago, WESTCOTT had their engineering group join and now have about eleven (11) SBE members.
We appreciate all members and those stations & companies that support SBE whether large or small.
Recently we've received two booklets dealing with the digital revolution taking place while rapidly replacing the analog world. We believe that you will find both useful if you are into any digital (and who isn't?) technology.
"THE BOOK", an Engineer's guide to the digital transition published by NVision, has information on video formats, standards, and interconnection considerations and is especially heavily biased toward digital audio as this seems to be the area of greatest uncertainty in mixed format or all digital design. Contact Carl Amend, NVision Regional Sales Manager at (817) 557-6388.
TELEVISION BROADCAST (TB) magazine has published and mailed to TB subscribers "THE GUIDE TO DIGITAL TELEVISION". This is not an engineering guide but is instead a practical guide for broadcast and production professionals who are making their own transition from analog to digital at any and all stages of the production process. If you do not have a copy, we suggest you contact TELEVISION BROADCAST at (212) 378-0400 or E-mail: circulation@psn.com.
We believe that you will find both booklets valuable for sources of information as you delve more and more into the digital domain—so check them out.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
CAPFLASH—CAPFLASH—CAPFLASH
JULY 1998
Our June `CAP of the MONTH" was awareded to SONY ELECTRONICS Engineer Person, Carol Ringelstetter, who by chance signed in on line 26.
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 and cable). HIS MARKETING is also Distributor of ADC, BRADY, KINGS, NEUTRIK & SWITCHCRAFT. So come early, early like 5:30, and sign in so you will be eligible for the drawing because someone always WINS — AND IT COULD BE YOU!!
CALENDAR
Several of the 1998 SBE CHAPTER 67 meeting dates were changed to accommodate the 1998 TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE. Make a note of the changes.
***** 1998 SBE CALENDAR PLANNER *****
In order to keep you up to date for future planning, here are dates for important meetings for 1998.
Jul 30—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Sep 3-4—TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION
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 26-31—140th SMPTE TECHNICAL CONFERENCE, Pasadena, CA
Oct 27-29—SBE NATIONAL METING, Bellevue (Seattle) WA
Oct 29—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Dec 3—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Jan 28 '99—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Feb 25-27 '99—33rd SMPTE ADVANCED MOTION IMAGING CONVERENCE, Orlando, FL.
Feb 25 '99—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Mar 25 '99—SBE Chapter #67 monthly meeting.
Apr 17-22 '99—NAB 99 CONVENTION, Las Vegas, NV
Apr 29 '99—SBE CHAPTER 67 monthly meeting
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
CHAIRMAN'S REPORT JULY, 1998
By Sandy
There once was a person who collected knowledge. When he had collected all the wisdom in the world, he placed that knowledge in a safe. He had the only key to the safe. He then went about the city boasting that he owned all the world's knowledge. The People, having none, replied "What knowledge?" The people did not have access to the safe and therefore could not realize the value of the contents. Knowledge becomes valuable only when shared.
There are 845 million television sets (black and white, 366 million, color 479 million), 79,780 television transmitters, 2 billion radio receivers and thousands of radio transmitters in the world.
Every three years the total knowledge of the world doubles. Electronic knowledge follows a similar time frame.
Electronic apparatus, both in radio and television, are of better quality and require less maintenance than in former years. Technology in broadcasting is advancing at so rapid a rate that equipment does not deteriorate, it becomes obsolete.
The maintenance of electronic equipment to the tight tolerances required demands a reservoir of trained, certified professionals. Broadcast engineers all over the world face the same technical problems and solve them in a similar manner. There is no need to reinvent the wheel in each locality.
Professional electronic training before the 80s was good for twenty or so years. In the 90s the state of the art is advancing so rapidly that training is seldom good for more than five years. In maintaining his expertise, the professional needs a reliable source for information on the technical changes in broadcasting.
The Society of Broadcast Engineers is organized to support the technical requirements of professional engineers in the radio and television broadcast industry. The SBE has Affiliates in Korea, Mexico, India, Canada, Brazil, the Philippines and Uruguay. These organizations have set the standards for levels of qualification in our industry.
The SBE and it local chapters provide continuing technical education in broadcasting with seminars, instruction manuals and study guides. Examinations are conducted to certify the attainment of professional levels. These certifications are accepted by broadcasters and manufactures around the world. The SBE shares with our allied broadcast engineering organizations our friendship, expertise, educational materials and standardized tests.
In the field of broadcast engineering there are no national boundaries. Electronic waves do not stop at political lines. It is the desire of the professional engineers to provide the best broadcast signals to our listeners and viewers on this, our planet.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
—> ADVERTISER & INDUSTRY NEWS <—-
Keith Beard, long time GRASS VALLEY GROUP veteran and most recently with NSMicrowave, has taken a position with DMPL (DIGITAL MEDIA PERFORMANCE LABS) located in the Dallas INFOMART. DMPL has been providing products to post-production houses. With the expertise of Lee Harrison, ex-SOUTHWEST TELEPRODUCTIONS Production Manager, the company has designed and is building several products for the broadcaster. Keith can be contacted at (214) 757-7804.
A top level DTV meeting (dubbed 1998 DTV SUMMIT) took place at the OMNI PARK WEST in Dallas last week sponsored by Consumer Electronics Manufacturers Association (CEMA) and National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). The kickoff was an evening open house at HDVision (located in the DCC) where three (3) HDTV sets were demonstrating the WFAA-DT-9 off the air signal (see separate WFAA-DT-9 update in the OVER the TRANSOM column). Sharp, Zenith, & Panasonic each had a set operating off a Channel 9 yagi antenna mounted on the roof of the HDVision studio.In addition to CEMA & NAB, attending the full day meeting were representatives from network and station broadcasters, cable, DirectTV, and a majority of the TV set manufacturers. Some of the subjects covered included results of recent surveys and consumer research, sales forecasts, 1998 station plans, schedules, and programming in the 10 largest markets. Also covered were DTV & HDTV cable carriage, signal reports, local & national programming plans, tv set update on launch & product availability for 1998 & early 1999. The status of converter boxes, signal sources for retailer demonstrations, roles of DBS, cable, & antennas, benefits of DTV for early consumers, benefits of converter boxes, retailer/broadcaster partnership ideas, benefits of 5.1 sound, DTV helping sell other products, home theater system solutions, etc were also covered. Consensus of the set manufacturers was products will begin arriving in showrooms between September and December with a majority of the sets being modular with a display and a converter box. They do not agree with broadcasters that multipath will be a major problem. All agreed that the cable carriage issues are serious and complicated regarding must carry, altering DTV-data signals, Pay per View, and similar issues. The meeting provided a forum for the various parties to express, share, and report on the progress, problems, and schedules as the HDTV elements begin to take shape.
The FCC's top engineer Richard Smith recently left his position as Chief of the FCC Office of Engineering & Technology to pursue other interests. OET Chief since 1994, Smith has been responsible for providing technical, engineering, and scientific directions to the Commission on a number of matters including HDTV.
Broadcasters won a major victory this week when a Federal Judge ruled that PrimeTime24 a wholesaler of satellite programming to the DBS market, was guilty of providing CBS & FOX network programming to customers who were able to receive local stations. The TV Satellite Industry supported the SATELLITE HOME VIEWER ACT of 1988 & revised in 1994 which defined narrow guidelines which allowed DBS customers distant network service where local service is not available. PrimTime24 was a party to the law, and then broke the law & their word to Congress. The Judge ordered PrimeTime24 to immediately cease supplying CBS & FOX and must, by October 8, cancel service to all ineligible subscribers signed since March 1997.
ZENITH ELECTRONICS CORP announced a restructuring plan for reorganization plan under Chapter 11 designed to reduce its debt by approximately $250 million, enhance its competitiveness, and position the company for growth & consistent profitability.
DirecTV is building a 200,000 square foot "next generation" Broadcast Center to bolster its HDTV initiative in LA. Expected to be in operation by June '99, the facility will feature a multichannel automation system, three megawatt battery power system, & three 1.2 megawatt generators. The company operates three other control facilities. DirecTV, the direct-to-home satellite TV service, has become the first broadcaster to deliver 5.1-channel Dolby Digital Surround Sound to its viewers. The service was launched on selected letter-boxed pay-per-view movies which cost $2.99 each to coincide with the rollout of the Thompson Consumer Electronics new RCA DSS system featuring a Dolby-enabled settop receiver. There will be no increase in the per-view cost and the audio system will be expanded to include special events and other types of programming such as musical and live events. Dolby Digital sound was introduced in 1992 for "BATMAN RETURNS" and has been used on about 1,000 films since then. In addition, more than 8,400 feature films have been encoded with standard Surround soundtracks that can be played with existing equipment. The all digital DirecTV service began operation in 1994 and now has more than 3.5 million subscribers using an 18" antenna with a digital set-top box to receive about 200 channels of programming.
The FCC voted 4-1 to make multichannel set-top boxes available through retailers thereby encouraging the development of devices compatible with any cable system and will increase digital TV service options for consumers. The ruling mandates that boxes with separate security modules be on the market by July 2000 & that integrated boxes be phased out by 2005. The FCC will require six month progress reports on the development of separate modules from CableLabs' open cable group which has been working on box specifications and in July 2000, the FCC will reconsider the sunset date. The FCC order implements Section 629 of the 1996 Telecommunications Act mandating that "navigation devices" become commercially available that will work with multichannel services.
Multiple problems for the V-CHIP. Ever since the FCC voted in September 1997 to require 50% of all new TV sets 13" & larger to contain V-CHIP technology by July 1999 and starting in 2000, all new TV sets sold in the U.S. must contain V-CHIP technology. Three individuals each claim to have invented the V-CHIP. Each individual has signed license agreements with a different company. The companies are Omaha based PARENTAL GUIDE CO., Toronto based TriVision and Greenwich, CT based SOUNDVIEW TECHNOLOGIES. To date no U.S. manufacturer has announced a plan or schedule including the V-CHIP into their new line of TV sets and seem to be waiting for broadcasters to install the encoding equipment and vice versa. A major concern of broadcasters is how to handle commercials & the effects on advertiser revenue. NBC & BLACK ENTERTAINMENT NETWORK have been vocal opponents of the FCC order and several public interest groups have been fighting its implementation. KMTV-TV-3, Omaha, became the first U.S. station to encode content ratings into daily programming using the V-CHIP box developed by PARENTAL GUIDE CO.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 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 SBE CHAPTER 67 MEETING: June 25, 1998
LOCATION: LUBY'S CAFETERIA, 2515 Airport Frwy, Irving, TX
The business meeting was called to order at 7:00pm by Chapter Vice-Chairman Gerry Dalton. Chairman Sandberg was out of town. Approximately 43 members and guests were introduced. Vice-Chairman Dalton urged and encouraged the use of the Chapter's Website: `www.sbe67.org' and to communicate with their officers via their E-mail addresses which are listed in the `CHAPTER OFFICERS' section. He cautioned everyone regarding the change of meeting dates for the remainder of the year. The CALENDAR is published each month in the NEWSLETTER. It is also available on the Website. He also urged attendance at the September 3-4 combined regional and state TAB/SBE meeting at the INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL, Dallas, and to attend the State SBE meeting and review Thursday at 4:00pm.
It was announced that Chris Hudgins would not run for a second National Director term and noted that nominations were now being taken.
It was reported that ADVANCED BROADCAST SERVICES (VICTOR DUNCAN video Division spin-off), has paid the membership and certification fees for their engineering staff. Ten applications have been filed - adding to the three members they also have, making a total of 13 members for the firm.
Employment opportunities were announced for The Marcus Rodriguez Group. Contact Ed Pryor or Steven Benzes.
It was noted that North Lake Community College (DCCD) is now graduating all broadcast technology students with SBE certification.
Two numbers were called for the `DOOR PRIZE': 1375 - Ricky Wright, Red Oak, and 1182 - Karem Soule', KKTX-AM/FM, Gilmer. Neither was present.
The SBE `CAP of the MONTH' winner was line 26, Carol Ringelstetter, SONY ELECTRONICS.
OFFICER REPORTS:
CHAIRMAN: Not present.
SECRETARY: The May minutes were approved as printed in the NEWSLETTER.
TREASURER: Not present.
FREQUENCY COORDINATOR: No report.
PROGRAM: Tentatively - TOM JOHNSTON and ASSOCIATES working with ASC SERVICES for the July meeting.
Vice-Chairman Dalton introduces Chris Noland who gave a short update on the TEKTRONIX Oscilloscope products over the years and its progression into the digital domain. Chris introduced Bill Bryan, Applications Engineer, who presented the program on the latest technology of the digital design and operation of the new breed of oscilloscopes.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:30pm.
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
JULY, 1998
TV NOTES DROPPED OVER THE TRANSOM
By John Galt
KXAS-TV-5 has named the new Director of Engineering for the NBC owned station. Richard Westcott, Manager of Engineering & Technical Services WRC-TV-4, Washington, DC, will take the reins in late August. Richard has been with the Washington NBC owned station for 18 years.
Jerry Fryar has been promoted to Assistant Director of Engineering at KXAS-TV-5.
Rick Anderson, Chief Engineer KDAF-TV-33, has announced the promotion of Jim Bush, veteran maintenance engineering supervisor, to Assistant Chief Engineer.
Chuck Sherman, a senior vice president in charge of the NAB TV department, has been promoted to executive vice president of the TV department and recently was appointed president of the NAB Education Foundation, which was formed to complete studies on exactly how radio & TV broadcasters contribute to society.
DOTY MOORE TOWER SERVICES has completed the installation of the WFAA-DT-9/KDFW-DT-35 antenna system. On July 1, WFAA resumed HDTV transmission at their authorized power and height. KDFW expects delivery of their transmitter shortly and expects to begin their DTV transmission in August.
Development and marketing of Cedar Hill tower space is as hot as the weather these days (and as we all know it's plenty hot). The former LANDMARK GROUP now called COMM SITES has lined up financial backing from a Florida real estate developer for a tower site south of Cedar Hill in Ellis County. Cedar Hill quickly annexed the area but is allowing the project to proceed under municipal tower rules. Working with industry consultants and antenna manufacturers, Comm SITES has developed a plan for a conventional 12' face tower with a three-arm 50' platform on top. Each arm is to support double-stacked UHF antennas for NTSC & DTV stations. COMM SITES claims to have signed up several stations but no public announcements have been made.
Ray Halford, owner of CEDAR TOWER (the former ESCO tower) has formed a relationship with Landmark Tower Design and Manufacturing of Fort Worth and is marketing antenna space on a candelabra platform to be added to the tower after the structure is beefed up.
OMNIAMERICA, new owner of the MILLER and COWBOY TOWER, is concentrating on the installation of a ten-station HARRIS FM antenna on the new COWBOY TOWER which also has a 30' three-arm rental platform on top.
PAXSON TV, owner of KINZ-TV-68, is considering construction of a new 1500' tower at or near their present site on Beltline Road.
Meanwhile, Bill McMillan, aggressive opponent of new tower construction in Cedar Hill, has been appointed to the Cedar Hill Planning & Zoning Board replacing the more moderate Greg Patton. This does not bode well for anyone considering new tower sites outside the bounds defined by existing towers.
FOX SPORTS SOUTHWEST cut its feed to the MARCUS CABLE's North TX networks at midnight June 22 after being unable to agree on new contract terms. FOX had been feeding the network without a contract since January and felt the negotiations weren't progressing. The blackout continued into the Tuesday Texas Ranger baseball game. After speaking to top MARCUS officials Tuesday evening, FOX made a last minute decision to resume the programming but MARCUS was unable to get all its equipment reset in time for the start of the ball game. There have been no public statements since but the programming has not been interrupted since. Lurking in the background is the probability that Tom Hicks as owner of the Dallas Stars and The Texas Rangers will form another Southwest Regional Sports Network.
CHANCELLOR MEDIA continues its expansion with the purchase of GLOBAL SALES DEVELOPMENT, a consulting firm to lead its marketing and promotion efforts. It has also acquired one of the nation's largest billboard companies, MARTIN MEDIA, for $610 million. MARTIN MEDIA has more than 13,000 billboards & other outdoor advertising displays in 12 states covering 29 markets. The company took another major step toward its goal to become a large multimedia company signing an agreement to purchase LIN TV CORP in a rather complicated financial transaction which values LIN operating assets of about $1.4 billion plus reimbursement for working capital and the value of LIN's financial assets. It will assume about $770 million of debt. CHANCELLOR will issue about 18 million shares which will increase HMT&F's ownership of CHANCELLOR to 18% from its present 9%. Also included in the deal will be LIN's 20% stake in the venture with NBC (80%) which owns NBC affiliates in DFW (KXAS-TV-5) and San Diego and a stake in a yet-to-be-formed sports enterprise bringing together LIN PRODUCTIONS and KXTX-TV-39 TV rights with Tom Hicks ownership of the Dallas Stars and the Texas Rangers. LIN TV President Gary Chapman will become President of CHANCELLOR's TV operations and become a director boosting CHANCELLOR's board membership to 12 from its present 11 members. Although the LIN purchase is no big surprise, its timing was. It was generally expected that CAPSTAR BROADCASTING would be brought into the CHANCELLOR fold before LIN but HMT&F's goal of having radio, TV, & outdoor advertising (MARTIN MEDIA) in several markets for overlapping sales opportunities certainly has been enhanced and may have been the overriding reason to do the LIN deal first.
The FCC has set up a DTV Tower Strike Force to be headed by Commissioner Susan Ness to help broadcasters overcome local obstacles to building or modifying towers or doing other work related to the digital rollout. It will provide technical assistance and answer questions posed by zoning boards and other local governing bodies during the tower site approval process. Frequently asked questions are available at www.fcc.gov/mmb/prd/dtv.
Almost half of the 122 TV stations in the top 30 markets have applied for digital construction permits and 16 stations have been granted CPs. Of the 24 stations in the top 10 markets who volunteered to begin DTV by Nov 1, only two do not expect to make it.
The Association for Maximum Service Television (MSTV) has urged the FCC to reconsider channel changes made to the DTV allotment table to protect LPTV stations. MSTV said it fears that some of the changes may reduce full power DTV coverage areas or cause interference to NTSC channels. They noted that RAMOR COMMUNICATIONS, licensee of KJTV in Lubbock has a petition pending claiming it has been harmed by a channel change made to benefit a LPTV station which reduced its coverage area match from 100% to 94.5%.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
SBE NEWS—JULY, 1998
The first mailing for the 1998 TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE & EXHIBITION have been mailed. The TAB Conference will be held at the INTER-CONTINENTAL HOTEL (formerly the Grand Kempinski) in Dallas on September 2-4. Our Chapter will host the Engineering Conference Thursday the 3rd and Friday the 4th. Remind yourself to send in your pre-registration again just $45 until August 14 and then $65 and the 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 early because you won't want to miss this Conference. If you have not received the mailing, contact TAB at (512) 332-9944 or contact any Chapter Officer. All registrants are invited to attend the Texas State SBE Membership meeting which will be held at 4:00pm 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 so everyone can sign in for official attendance.
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) 253-1640.
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. Certification Chairman Landy Compton can be contacted at (817) 654-1100 Ext 271 or E-mail: 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 in 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 E-mail: certification@sbe67.org. DON'T let your certification lapse!!!
SBE's new program targeting high school age students will officially begin 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.
The recently approved resume service for members began July 1. An SBE member can, at no charge, submit five copies of their resume 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
JULY, 1998
====JULY 1998====
PROGRAM=TIDBITS=and=MORE=or=LESS
Seems like everyone was pretty well pleased with LUBY's CAFETERIA as our meeting location. We continue to look forward to any comments you might have and of course, we are always open to any suggestions.
Our appreciation and thanks to Chris Noland, Account Manager, and Bill Bryan, Application Engineer, for the fine presentation and update on oscilloscopes. TEKTRONIX still retains its status as the NUMBER ONE name in oscilloscopes.
We remind you to check the meeting calendar for changes in our meeting dates and the TAB/SBE ENGINEERING CONFERENCE.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
RADIO RUMBLES
by Clay Steely
Carl Smith, reportedly the leading developer of AM directional antennas died of heart failure in May at the age of 91. Besides being the top expert on AM antennas, he was also noted as a great teacher. He was the founder of the Cleveland Institute of Electronics (CIE) in 1944 and for many years, he taught a NAB sponsored annual 2 day AM directional antenna seminar. He held many patents on design ideas including CP FM & TV antennas. He worked at WHK-AM, Cleveland, for more than 25 years, formed his own consulting firm in 1935 (it still bears his name), founded Carl E Smith Electronics which specializes in magnetic interference testing on computer products and garage door openers and was widely recognized for his work on many VOA projects.
KAAM-AM-620, the Plano based good music station, is expected to be acquired by ABC RADIO for a reported $12 million. The station will switch formats August l to the Radio Disney format which is music that is screened for wholesomeness catering to children 12 & under. Jack Sellmeyer, KAAM Chairman, CEO & major shareholder, declined to comment. RADIO DISNEY 24 hour format originates from the ABC RADIO NETWORKS in North Dallas and is beamed by satellite to 28 AM stations around the country including Los Angeles & Chicago. If the KAAM deal is finalized, ABC RADIO will have three stations in the DFW market already owning KSCS-FM-96.3 and WBAP-AM-820.
The recent SUSQUEHANNA BROADCASTING purchase of KDSX-AM-950 has been a nightmare for KPLX Chief Engineer Hue Beavers. Jack Sellmeyer & Hue have spent weeks during this 100 plus weather rebuilding and redesigning the antenna network several times to meet the day and night time antenna coverage patterns. Apparently available records were nonexistent but, trial and error methods are about to produce an acceptable and stable transmission system. Future plans call for moving the station to the expanded band at 1700 with greatly enhanced DFW coverage.
CEMA recently held an "audio industry summit" in Chicago due to the softness in the audio equipment market as audio sales have declined over the last two years. People no longer listen to music like they used to as lifestyles have changed. Audio competes not only for consumer's dollars but their time so the audio industry needs to foster new marketing strategies to reignite consumer interest.
The ARBITRON COMPANY has purchased the radio station, advertiser, agency, and international assets of TAPSCAN INC. Birmingham based TAPSCAN is developing software and applications that it markets to radio stations, advertisers, agencies, and overseas TV & cable media. ARBITRON will combine the resources of the two companies to improve its services and expand overseas more quickly. TAPSCAN will retain its U.S. software applications for TV & cable and its new MOBILTRAK service to measure radio listening in cars.
RADIO FREQUENCY SYSTEMS, owned by ALCATEL, has combined the resources of CABLEWAVE and RFS Australia. The new entity to be known as RFS BROADCAST USA will focus on broadcaster needs, products, and system solutions. Clients will now be able to work with RFS BROADCAST USA to plan, design, and select equipment from a broad line of antennas, combiners, couplers, and transmission lines. Special emphasis will be placed on multistation FM operation into a broadband antenna.
PACIFIC RESEARCH & ENGINEERING (PR&E) intends to acquire GRAHAM PATTEN SYSTEMS, INC based in Grass Valley, CA. GPS manufactures digital audio mixers for the video editing environment. No other details have been available.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
~~~JOBS AVAILABLE & WANTED — JUNE, 1998~~~
These job listings are positions which have come to our attention and are intended to notify those seeking or having work or possible opportunities which may exist. To the best of our knowledge, all company listings are EOE.
KDAF-TV 33 has an opening for a master control engineer. For information, contact KDAF-TV human Services, (214) 640-3300.
The Marcus Rodriguez Group has openings for two (2) studio engineers. Information is available by contacting Steven Benzes, KLTY-FM, at (214) 630-9400.
DALLAS COUNTY COMMUNITY COLLEGE is seeking a full time video engineer. For information and resume, contact Debbie Mason at (214) 631-5571.
BURST COMMUNICATIONS, Dallas, seeks inside sales/product specialist who will also assist the outside sales team. Experience with industry high-end products, systems, and customers. Sales and/or technical experience desired. Great opportunity to work with a growing, dynamic company. FAX resume/qualifications to (972) 248-7906.
Sam Smith, formerly Engineering Manager, TANDY/RADIO SHACK, is seeking TV opportunities in the area. Sam may 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 openings for the position of SNG/ENG Engineer to operate and maintain ENG and SNG vehicles and related microwave and satellite equipment. Two year Engineering Associate Degree or two years of Radio/TV Broadcasting technical school required. FCC license and/or SBE certification and valid Texas drivers license required. For other requirements and additional information contact KTVT-TV 11 Human Resources at (817) 451-1111.
KTVT-TV 11 has an opening for the position of Transmitter Maintenance Engineer to install, repair, maintain and perform preventive maintenance of all technical equipment. Two year Associate Degree or two years of technical school related to Radio and TV broadcasting required. FCC General Class Radiotelephone license and/or SBE Broadcast Engineer Certification and valid Texas driver's license. For other requirements and additional information, contact KTVT-TV 11 Human Resources at (817) 451-1111.
WFAA-TV 8 has an opening for a SYSTEMS MANAGER responsible for overseeing news electronic information systems, including the AVID NETSTATION and BASYS computer network, maintenance and operation of computer equipment. Should have both journalistic and technical skills, understanding of TV news broadcasting and minimum three years experience managing a news room compute system. Check the WFAA-TV 8 job line: (214) 977-6003.
WFAA-TV 8 has an opening for a COMPUTER LAN ENGINEER responsible for design, implementation and maintenance of WFAA LANS and coordinating the WFAA-TV 8 LAN equipment with the AHBELO WAN. Working knowledge of software programs, network certification, two years experience with LAN hardware. For additional requirements and information check the WFAA-TV 8 jobline: (214) 977-6003.
KLTV-TV 22, Houston-Galveston, has an immediate opening for a Chief Engineer. For information, contact GM Scott Thomas at (281) 212-1077 or page (888) 408-7987.
HEFTEL BROADCASTING is seeking an entire radio staff including Chief Engineer and Assistant Chief Engineer for the newly acquired San Diego FM stations. For additional information and filing resumes, contact HBC Human Resources, c/o Ellen Fox, 100 Crescent Court, Dallas, TX 75201.
Among the listings on the SBE National JOBLINE are these area employment opportunities:
Woodward, OK—Broadcast Facility Chief Engineer with some previous experience—Job #613.
Corpus Christi—Assistant TV/Radio Engineer with more than three years broadcast experience. SBE certification required—#605.
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 CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
EAS NOTES
JULY 1998
REQUIRED MONTHLY TEST (RMT) SCHEDULE—TEXAS 1998
05:19am Tue Aug 04
01:19pm Wed Sep 09
11:19pm Thu Oct 08
09:19am Tue Nov 03
Note: All times are approximate and are subject to coordination between originating stations WBAP and KTRH.
SBE CHAPTER 67 NEWSLETTER
JULY, 1998
<<DOOR DOOR—PRIZE PRIZE>>
JULY 1998
The June `DOOR PRIZE' seemed rather tame after the special drawings which took place at the May ESCO BBQ gathering. However, as the `kitty' climbs each month, the tension mounts until we have a winner. The two June `DOOR PRIZE' numbers called were: 1375-Rickey Wright, Red Oak, and 1182-Karem O Soule', KKTX-AM/FM, Gilmer. Neither was present, so there was no winner for the $110.
This month, the `DOOR PRIZE' will be $120, courtesy of Bret Brewer, CONTINENTAL ELECTRONICS, and a possible $220 thanks to Don splettstosser and ELECTROTEX — your Electrons parts Store.
Although we may not print the RULES every month, they are available for review and we will print them whenever changes are made. So, KNOW and REMEMBER the rules. You MUST produce your current month's NEWSLETTER in order to claim the `DOOR PRIZE'. And remember to brig a GUEST to win lots more in cash and prizes.