Brazil's decision to adopt the Japanese digital television standard represents a unique opportunity for Argentina, according to a statement from the ATSC Forum released in Buenos Aires, "if Argentina chooses ATSC it can position itself in the region as an exporter of digital television technology and content."
According to ATSC Forum officials, the adoption of the ATSC standard could bring the country various benefits in the technological and economic order. Among the first, the greater geographical coverage stands out, reaching more viewers with the highest quality of image, sound and signal. Economically, Argentina would become a major competitor in the region to develop as a producer of content, software and DTV devices, thus generating an export opportunity for the country.
Finally, according to the statement, ATSC will allow the country to take full advantage of the economies of scale offered by large consumer markets, such as the United States, Mexico and Canada that have already adopted the standard. This means that Argentine citizens will be able to access more digital TV products at much lower prices, including the low-cost converter boxes used with current analog TVs.
Recently, ARTEAR broadcast on HDTV several matches of the World Cup and the opening ceremony. ATSC Forum President Robert Graves said, "We are very pleased to be working with leading broadcasters and electronics companies in Argentina to be able to broadcast the World Cup on digital TV, using the ATSC standard."
