Hi-Vision vs. 8K Super High Vision. Photo: NHK

[Via Satellite 01-08-2016] SiTune Corporation, developer of semiconductor tuners, transceivers, and wireless radios, announced the STN6528, a tuner capable of supporting the new Advanced Wide Band Digital Satellite Broadcasting Standard (ARIB STD-B44) for broadcasting 8K digital television via satellite. STN6528 availability is targeted to support NHK’s initial test broadcasts of 8K Super Hi-Vision (SHV) content in 2016, as published by Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications last July.

In addition to supporting Japan’s new 8K TV satellite standard, the STN6528 supports both satellite and terrestrial RF inputs while providing satellite and terrestrial outputs at the same time. The STN6528 receives one satellite signal in the 950-3220MHz spectrum and one terrestrial/cable signal in the Ultra High Frequency (UHF)/Very High Frequency (VHF) spectrum from 44 to 1002MHz. The STN6528 provides a low power consumption solution as well as a low Bill of Material (BOM) blueprint for the Japanese television and Blu-ray recorder market, enabling the smallest possible television tuner modules capable of supporting 2 (1T/1S), 4 (2T/2S) or 6 (3T/3S) channel television reception.

The STN6528 makes it possible for Time-Shift TV to support 8K content. A 3T/3S module using the STN6528 lets consumers automatically record all programs from their favorite broadcast TV channels over a one week rolling window, including 8K content, for viewing on new 8K TVs. Time-Shift TV plus the STN6528 allows consumers more time to watch their favorite TV shows, including channels dedicated to 8K content, without having to specifically record the show.

As host country of the 2020 Olympics, Japan’s broadcast industry will soon begin early test broadcasts of 8K programming over satellite systems to enable and prepare for highly anticipated demand of new 8K televisions. At the same time, Blu-ray recorders will be equipped with 8K tuners to give customers simultaneous ability to record multiple 8K videos on their recorders.