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Section IV. Technical Requirements for
Program Packaging
Acceptable
Formats:
MHz NETWORKS accepts programs on NTSC, Beta-SP formats. MHz NETWORKS will not
accept tapes in any other format. It is recommended that Producers use new tape stock.
If a producer must use a previously used tape it is advised that the producer bulk erase
the tape before using. The used tape should be free of scratches, edge damages,
ripples, creases, and cinchers. If the producer notices any of the above on their tape
they should immediately throw the tape away. Tapes that are delivered to MHz
NETWORKS in this condition run the risk of being rejected.
Program Packaging:
Tapes should be packaged in the following order:
(opening)
10 second minimum leader
Tape should have 10 seconds of synchronous black video and silent audio
60 seconds bars/tone test (NTSC bars/ 1 kHz - o vu tone)
There should be a minimum of 60 seconds of NTSC bars and tone for a reference. The
reference signal should be a true indication of the program's chroma, video, pedestal,
and phase.
10 seconds synchronous black video and silent audio
10 second Countdown
The last two seconds of the countdown should be black with silent audio
(body)
Program Material
Standard maximum times for shows range from 28:30 for a half-hour program to 58:30
for an hour program. MHz NETWORKS reserves 1:30 from each show to run station
promos, ids, underwriting, disclaimers, and PSA's.
(closing)
A minimum of 2 minutes black following program
Audio Specs
Audio levels should be consistent throughout the program and should true to the
reference tone given during the :60 tone/bars test.
Track-1: Stereo left or mono
Track-2: Stereo right or back-up mono
