The FCC is ready to demonstrate its new database developed to host the online public file for television stations.
The NAB has asked the commission to delay the Aug. 2 implementation of the new requirement pending the outcome of its appeal before a federal court. One of the arguments the association put forth was that the commission had not informed broadcasters how the system would work.
The trade association calls the rule arbitrary and capricious and says it would harm TV stations because they’d be required to post the prices paid for specific ads online immediately after the spots were sold, placing them at a disadvantage to competitors like satellite TV and cable, who don’t have the same requirement.
On July 17 at 10 a.m. Eastern time, the commission plans to demo the how broadcasters would use the interface of the new system to place online files in the database.
The demonstration will serve as a system test, and broadcasters will learn how to upload files and use file sharing tools to accomplish that task as well as other ways the agency is working to facilitate access to its public databases.