[Satellite TODAY 11-04-09] Dielectric Communications is launching a line of digital antennas and filters targeting low-power television (LPTV) broadcasters, the company announced Nov. 3.
    The new product line aims to provide cost-effective solutions for LPTV broadcasters in advance of the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) open filing window for digital LPTV stations and translators on Jan. 25.  After this date, the FCC will accept applications for new digital-only LPTV stations and translators, major modifications to existing analog and digital stations, and digital companion channels.
    Dielectric’s new hardware is designed to optimize LPTV digital coverage with an input power rating of up to 2 kW.
    "LPTV stations serve an important role in the community by offering a broad range of educational, service, and spiritual programming, often to populations that were previously underserved.  And yet, many lack the resources to upgrade their equipment for digital broadcasting. With the upcoming FCC filing, we saw an opportunity to apply our expertise and years of experience in the high-power market to offer solutions that specifically address LPTV requirements," said Dielectric President Garrett VanAtta, in a statement.