Puerto Rico. Telecinco Media Holdings chose Rohde & Schwarz to modernize the distribution of its Mayagüez-based station WORA-TV. Telecinco was the first television station on the west coast of the island and has developed numerous affiliations with larger networks over the years.
Given Puerto Rico's high energy costs, Telecinco was looking for a state-of-the-art, highly efficient transmitter for WORA-TV. Equally important, the company wanted a partner that could offer both technological innovation and long-term stability. To meet these needs, Telecinco selected Rohde & Schwarz's THU9evo liquid-cooled transmitter, a high-power transmitter equipped with 24 amplifiers (37kW) that significantly reduces operating costs while improving reliability.
Andrés Ramírez de Arellano, President and CEO of Telecinco Media Holdings, commented that "We chose Rohde & Schwarz because we need a reliable partner that can help us reduce costs and ensure long-term support for future technological challenges."
Rohde & Schwarz also provided a thorough site survey, including an interactive 3D floor plan, which helped optimize the efficiency of the new transmitter. Estimated savings suggest that the system will pay for itself in about seven years.
In addition, Erik Balladares, Vice President of Broadcast Sales at Rohde & Schwarz, emphasized the reliability of the system, stating, "Both the THU9evo transmitter models and the TE1 transmitter models are designed to last for more than a decade, ensuring consistent uptime and energy savings for Telecinco Media."
Alesandro Annoni, account manager at Rohde & Schwarz, emphasized that TV transmitters are crucial investments for broadcasters, as they must operate continuously throughout the year. Rohde & Schwarz's high quality standards make the company a world leader and its transmitters are especially valued in regions facing severe weather challenges, such as hurricanes. Rohde & Schwarz also offers service level agreements with fast delivery of essential components, providing unmatched support beyond traditional warranties.
Telecinco Media's engineering team conducted extensive research, consulting with broadcast engineers and manufacturers at trade shows. In April 2024, ahead of the NAB Show, Telecinco selected the Rohde & Schwarz transmitter due to its energy efficiency, ATSC 3.0 readiness, and product durability. Installation of the new UHF transmitter began in early December 2024 and was completed in about a week. This upgrade allows WORA-TV to expand its audience reach while reducing operating costs.
"Our goal is to offer the highest technical quality to our audience," said Wilberto Lorenzo, chief technology officer of Telecinco Media. "The Rohde & Schwarz THU9evo helps us achieve this. From a technical standpoint, having a company that offers 24/7 support and monthly training is the best guarantee. In transmission, reliability in both equipment and supplier support is crucial, and Rohde & Schwarz excels in both areas."
