Synamedia Introduces Advanced Security Features for ATSC 3.0 Media Edge Gateway

Synamedia Unveils Enhanced Security for Media Edge Gateway

Synamedia, a frontrunner in the video software industry, has announced significant upgrades to its Media Edge Gateway (MEG), an advanced software-based Integrated Receiver Decoder (IRD) designed for ATSC 3.0. These innovations are poised to enrich broadcasting security in alignment with the stringent requirements set forth by the ATSC 3.0 Security Authority (A3SA).

With the latest enhancements, MEG is one of the pioneering broadcast solutions to fully support A3SA’s device security protocols, which include crucial elements like IP-based encryption, device certificates, and rights management technologies, ensuring compliance with the emerging ATSC 3.0 Security Standards. This move not only bolsters content protection but also paves the way for the ongoing transition toward next-generation television broadcasting.

What sets Synamedia’s MEG apart is its unmatched potential for cost-efficiency and adaptability. Customers can expect up to an impressive 80% in cost savings by utilizing MEG as a device gateway compared to implementing a complete system overhaul. Additionally, major broadcasters can seamlessly switch between ATSC 3.0 and 1.0 formats, with cable affiliates able to manage both systems within their current infrastructure. This dual-format functionality offers significant operational flexibility, enabling a smoother migration process to newer technological standards.

Moreover, users can now monitor signals remotely, as the MEG allows for easy input of over-the-air (OTA) signals and outputs them in digital IP format, thus enhancing operational efficiency. As industry leaders work collaboratively on ATSC 3.0 initiatives, Synamedia’s emphasis on security stands at the forefront of their strategy.

Madeleine Noland, President of ATSC, remarked, “This milestone is a significant stride towards empowering next-generation broadcasting. Synamedia’s contributions are vital to the evolution of the ATSC ecosystem, allowing broadcasters to manage signals more effectively.” Meanwhile, Joe St. Jean, A3SA’s Managing Director, emphasized the streamlined capabilities the MEG brings to content protection, stating, “It simplifies the broadcasters’ compliance protocols while fostering broader acceptance of NEXTGEN TV.”

The MEG is ingeniously engineered as an all-in-one solution, combining OTA, satellite, and IP reception into a single device. Its integration is notably leveraged by a major U.S. broadcaster, operating at 20 affiliate stations where it converts OTA signals into IP for monitoring and management. Additionally, its compatibility with ATSC 3.0/MPEG4 signals allows for future-proofing strategies, as broadcasters prepare for a complete transition to 3.0 streaming formats.

Security remains a central tenet for Synamedia, with ongoing innovations in their product lineup. Elke Hungenaert, Vice President of Product Management at Synamedia Video Network, stated, “Our commitment to security has been unwavering since MEG's debut, designed specifically to address future needs, as we anticipated the gradual shift to ATSC 3.0.